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Breast cancer, chemo and alcohol

Gracee
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I have breast cancer. I had the lump removed then 12 weeks paclitaxil followed by 4 EC (fortnightly) I had my last ec yesterday and also had my picc removed. I was really emotional leading upto it being my last chemo. I do still have another op to shave some of the surroundings that were around the lump, then hormone and radiotherapy.  Sadly leading up to yesterday I had a few days were I was drinking alcohol fairly heavily. I still had my bloods on Wednesday and they were clear so still had chemo yesterday. So should be OK but I can't help but feel stupid and bad for doing this. I didn't want to speak 2 anyone in the hospital face to face. And tried ringing macmillan couple of times this morning but know I won't be able to stop crying to get my words out. I was wondering if anyone else has don't this and let me know how they were please. Sorry for this long message and thank you. Xx

  • Dear Gracee,

    Thank you for getting in touch with us, and welcome to our online community. My name is Annerose and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurses on the Macmillan Support line.

    It sounds like you have been through a lot recently, having a diagnosis of cancer and going through treatment can be a very emotional and difficult time.

    Having a cancer diagnosis can have a huge emotional impact and this can happen at different times for people. Speaking to you team or your GP can be beneficial, and they can offer you support.

    Drinking a little alcohol might not affect most chemotherapies. Generally, having the odd glass of wine or beer is not going to affect you while on chemotherapy. Usually we would advise to check with your doctor first to make sure it is all right.

    Don’t criticise yourself too much, we all have weak moment sometimes. I am glad you reached out and contacted us. The main point is you know it was a bit too much, and you stopped and reached out for support.

    I see you have joined the breast cancer forum, which can be a great source of support and a platform to speak to people who are going through a similar situation.

    There is also a lively online forum on the breast cancer now website.

    You mentioned you tried to call us this morning but were too emotional please do not let this stop you, it can sometimes help to speak to one of us directly. We can also offer you emotional support or free specialist counselling.

    Please don’t hesitate and get in touch with us via the number below.

    Best Wishes

    Annerose - Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or email us. 

    Ref/ LA

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