Failed?

So sorry to hear that 

I was very nearly in the same position as you. I also have HER2 and decided the first night after my first EC chemo that I could not do any more chemo. It was the worst night of my life, absolute hell. 

It turned out I had low sodium (999 to A&E) and with the sodium tablets the horrors of that night were avoided in the following cycles. 

However, EC chemo was not pleasant. Cognitive effects were huge, and a general malaise. 

I personally completely understand your decision. I am sure you are far from alone actually, others have also decided against chemo. In fact, my nurse told me before chemo that a lady had done the same as you: one cycle and then no more. That lady proceeded straight on to surgery. 

I will also not continue with paclitaxel if I get anything more than very minor neuropathy because I am a violinist. 

Do try ice gloves and socks for your paclitaxel and wear a pair of surgical gloves one size too small underneath. You need a gel ice pack set per hour, and a large cool bag/box with freezer packs to keep them frozen. It limits neuropathy and my hands are pretty much back to normal after 6 months. Weekly paclitaxel lasts an hour, every 2 weeks is about 3 hours. I completely understand your chemo concerns and you have to make the choice that is best for you xxx

I had surgery first. Hope you feel better, just waiting on radiotherapy. 

• No one gets the mental aspect until you go through it 

Good luck with the radiotherapy Bookworm! 

Hope it remains tolerable. x