Chemo at 78

Hello Ginger

Sorry to hear that your mum is going through the BC process, however I am glad to hear that she is doing well after her surgery. I am a little younger, but not a lot. I am 14 months in and have had chemo, surgery, radiotherapy and now continue with targeted anti HER2 treatment. While the chemo was not the most pleasant experience, it was doable. We are all different and so no one knows exactly how they will feel on it. For me, it was not as bad as I feared it would be, and if at some time in future I was advised to have it again, I would.

I think what you suggest is a good idea, that mum tries it and sees how she gets on. My worst cycle was my first one, as it gave me a migraine (which I don't usually get). I told the oncologist at the review appointment before the second dose and they tweaked the support meds. After this, I didn't really have any problems. It does make one tired as time goes on, so afternoon naps became a regular thing.

I am back to walking 6 or 7miles most days now and am feeling really good.

I wish you and mum all the best.

WallyDug

I would say this depends also on factors such as your mother's general health prior to cancer, and her ability to recover from the side effects of chemo.

Some women, such as WallyDug, would say that chemo was not a pleasant experience but it was doable. Others, such as myself, can tell you that sometimes chemo can really bring you to your knees and beyond, it all depends on the type of chemo and how your own body responds. I was fit and healthy prior to cancer and I am a lot younger than your mother, and still, there were times while on recent chemo that I truly wondered if I was about to die. This is not necessarily going to be your mother's experience, but the possibility needs to be taken into account when making this decision, as well as a judgment on how strong she is and how well she would be able to tolerate the drugs.

I would bring this up with her cancer team, and if she has any prior background conditions, then with the specialists who are caring for her, or her GP.

Thanks so much. It is really good to know that your first was your worse, but the response helped you to continue. My mum has not complained about anything after her op, although I am sure at times she was suffering so I guess I need to make sure she speaks up about the effects.

I wish you well going forward!

I'm in my 70's also and had my 5th chemo session yesterday, last one in February. the first really knocked me for 6 but I wonder if it is because I've no gall bladder, partial large bowel and arthritis! I am hoping and praying that my chemo will prove to be the end of my cancer journey as It's contained in one breast and my lymph nodes are normal. I feel very fortunate compared to so many others. I too think your mother, as she knows her body best, should see how it goes and if it gets too much for her, stop and ask for other ways to help. Please try to support her as much as you can but as you say, it is down to her. Wishing you both well for the future. 

Thanks ...and sorry you had it so bad! I guess you just don't know until you start. She was relatively fit ...always gardening and active, although I think lock down did age her which she says herself! I am impressed with her oncologist and the time and care she had given, so feel reassured she would not start until ready!