First oncologist appointment

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Hi all,

I hope you are all having a good day - I danced with my 2 year old, so that was a highlight.

I have my first appointment with the oncologist on Tuesday. I have a good list of questions from the Macmillan and other guides, but does anyone have any questions they asked that were really useful?

Thank you,

Chris

Mel M over 1 year ago

these were my main questions, hope they are helpful

How soon will treatment start?

Which chemo drugs will I be given?

How will the drugs be given to me?

How often will I need chemo?

How long will the treatments last, How many rounds?

What is the goal of chemo for my cancer?

Will it seriously impact my ability to work?

Side effects?

How do we know if chemo is working – If not what’s the backup plan?

Should I get the covid booster/flu jab?

Should I take any supplements or is there anything I should avoid?

Kareno62 over 1 year ago

Hi Chris. Great list of questions from Mel. I continued working through my chemo as I worked in a small office however the oncologist did say that she would have been more wary if I was in contact with a lot of small children for example?! Chemo will weaken your immune system making you more susceptible to any bugs going around.
It’s worth keeping a diary during your treatment as you often find that a routine develops and you may feel rough after the first couple of days, then not too bad then pretty good on your week off. If you did want to go into work and lock yourself in the office only eating food that fits under the office door then you could plan it around your good days?

Everyone responds differently to chemo and you may find that working is not an option but it’s something you could ask the oncologists opinion on?

Hope the meeting goes well and keep us posted

Take care

Karen x

Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

Mel M over 1 year ago in reply to Kareno62

Hi Karen062 & Chris, I was able to work through all chemo treatments bar one week on round 4 where I more or less slept for a week. I was able to work remotely so avoided social interactions and working did help my wellbeing xx

Hammo over 1 year ago in reply to Mel M

Hi Karen and Mel,

This is really useful. I will add those points to be massive list!

Good point on working around children, as I am a teacher. Will ask. I've negotiated work from home, but it might mean I need to tell staff and parents. Going to speak to some other Heads and the Macmillan employment line about the best course of action there.

Amazing support again. Thank you!

Chris