Chemo

Hello, 

So sorry your wife has got to go through this again. 

I had triple negative bc diagnosed in 2015. After a lumpectomy,  I had chemo and radiotherapy.  I think the protocol may have changed a bit as there have been advances in treatments but I had 3 xfec and 3x taxotere( which is the same drug as paxlitaxel).As you know from your past experiences everyone reacts differently to the chemo. I was unwell with both.....very sick, lethargic, and developed peripheral neuropathy from the taxotere....but if you read the August chemo thread, you will see how the ladies currently having chemo are reacting. Most seem to be getting back to work after a few days. I couldn't have done that so I think giving 4 doses instead of 3 is making it slightly easier.

If you want me to give a personal answer....taxotere was more demanding. Don't ignore the signs of neuropathy if they start.....burning feet, skinning of hands and feet, pain in hands, sheets feeling heavy on feet......just get someone to check it out. I made a mistake and thought it was something that I had to put up with so when it was too late to be treated, it had done permanent damage. There are tablets which would have improved things at the time.

As I said my cancer was four years ago. Regular checks have shown it is still staying away. I was advised that if I get to five years....there's  a good chance it won't come back. That should reassure your wife.

I wish your wife well. A lot of people I have spoken to found the taxotere much easier than the fec because they had less sickness. Hopefully that will be the same for your wife.

She may find the monthly chemo thread helpful because she can chat directly to others who have had chemo in the last few days.

I hope all goes well for a full recovery.

Best wishes

Karen