Due to start chemotherapy and dreading it!

Ah yes maybe there are certain parameters where it is a dead cert then. The oncotype tests are very expensive so think they maybe only do them if they are unsure/ could be borderline. 

In many ways the fear of the unknown is so much worse than the reality.   The fact that you sign a consent form with a long list of grim side effects,  give you a 24 hour emergency help line number etc etc adds to the dread!

The reality isn't as bad, you are automatically prescribed medication to help with the most common side effects, if you struggle tell your oncologist and they can prescribe something else or different. 

My oncologist told me before treatment started that if I was suffering due to the chemotherapy to tell her and she would do something to make it better otherwise she wasn't doing her job properly. 

I have one cycle of my 8 left to go, it hasn't been nearly as bad as I feared, yes I can feel it but I have gone out every day, had coffee or lunch with friends and family.   Sometimes it needs a bit more planning.

My advice would be to keep a diary of how you are feeling,  a pattern of side effects often develops, try and drink plenty to help clear the drugs out of your system, take any medication prescribed even if you feel you don't need it, easier to prevent nausea rather than treat it,  be honest with how you feel,  write down a list of questions.   If your chemotherapy could cause mouth soreness use an alcohol free mouthwash to help prevent any issues.

Try and stay positive,  count your blessings,  many side effects seem to come and go, sometimes only there for a day or even an hour or two.

If you decide to try the cold cap have a warm hat to wear home, it takes a while to thaw out!

I will have had 4 cycles of EC followed by 4 of Paclitaxel, paclitaxel definitely easier than the EC, needed extra medication to help with the EC side effects being Lorazepam for the night of the treatment and Omeprazole for heartburn/indigestion when required.   Nothing extra needed for the paclitaxel. (Although I was changed to Nab-paclitaxel due to an allergic reaction).

Wishing you all the best and sending hugs xxx