Chemo is starting

Hi - so sorry to read this. I was very lucky to have a husband that helped me through chemo, but I just wanted to say that I spoke to a woman who went through a few years ago and lived alone. She had some good tips - make a batch of food that you can eat and put it in the freezer before chemo, make sure you have everything in that you might need, do not be afraid to call the breast cancer nurses if you are worried about any symptom at all, if you have any neighbours etc that you could potentially call upon - day or night - if you get ill enough to need to go to hospital (but don't worry about that - they would send an ambulance if needed). Try and have a think and prepare yourself ahead of time so that things aren't so scary once you have started. And remember, although no substitute for your NHS team, people on here will help.

Have you spoken to your BCN about living alone?

Thanks for your reply. They’re good suggestions I’ll def make sure I’ve got everything I need at home. I have a good friend who’s about 10 mins away and she’s said I can phone her day or night I sincerely hope I don’t have to. People have said once the first one is done I’ll know what to expect, I just need to get through that first one! My BCN does know I live alone and I know I get an24 hour contact number from the chemo unit. Xx

it is very scary not knowing how you'll be, but preparation will make it less scary and it sounds like you are doing all the right things. Good luck!

Thanks  

Hey; sorry to hear that you feel so alone through this. I can tell you that this time leading up to your first treatment is the worst. The fear of the unknown and how the treatment is going to affect you.  It does get better; once you’ve had your first treatment and you know what you are dealing with it becomes easier. Also your nurses will keep you right and are on hand for support throughout. I’ ve just finished EC and due to start Paclitaxel on the 6th. Being prepared is great; online food shopping etc; get lots of fruit and veg in. I found that I’ve been eating more often but smaller meals.    Have you spoken to someone through Macmillan? They might be able to support you? Or is there a Maggie’s centre close to you? They have been a great support to me. Let us know how you get on. You’ve got this x