Missing a chemo infusion

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I’m mTNBC with mets to lungs.  I’m due to have 2nd part of cycle 6 of Gemcarbo on Wednesday.    I’ve been unwell since last infusion last Wednesday.   Nothing drastic just a horrible hungover feeling with nausea and diarrhoea.   Mentally and physically I just want a break and want to cancel and then restart in 2 weeks.   I’m incurable so personally don’t see an issue with this.  I know if I phone them they’ll try to persuade me to go in.  My white blood count last week had absolutely tanked, I think my body is telling me enough is enough at least for a short while.  

  • Hi   

    Thanks for getting in touch. I’m Linda one of the nurses from our support line.

    I see from your bio that you live in Spain, and though we have some different approaches to health care we would always strongly encourage you contact your oncology service to alert them to your current symptoms. This is especially important as you mention your white cells had tanked.

    Carrying on with treatment just now is personal choice, but it’s important to discuss this with your oncologist to help you decide. In some situations, having a treatment delay might be possible but, for some, this might reduce the effectiveness of the treatment being offered.

    Having a review of the treatment plan and the take home medication might also make a difference to symptoms and improve how you are feeling. There’s no harm in requesting this.

    We often find that having a chat with one of nurses can help. Though we can’t comment on overseas treatment we may be able to offer you some well needed emotional support. Our number for people overseas is +442070912230 (please bear in mind this is not free of charge as you are outside of the UK).

    It may also be worth asking about support in Spain as some charities do offer resources in other languages. The hospital you attend might be best to help with this if needed.

    Best wishes and take care.

    Linda

    Macmillan 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 send us an email

    Ref LM/GMcR

  • Many thanks for your reply.  Very helpful.   

  • I'm glad you found the response very helpful. I will pass on your thanks to Linda.