First Oncology appointment

Hi Alison, I’m sorry you are having to go through this treatment. I had chemo earlier this year and to be honest I was completely dazed by the information I was given. My oncologist was lovely and he talked for an hour, I asked very few questions. I had my husband with me and when it came to survival statistics I told the oncologist I didn’t want to know them as at that time I wasn’t ready to hear this information. He asked me, early in the consultation, what I expected from him. I was totally unprepared for this question.

To be honest my consultation was thorough and provided me with so much information I didn’t feel I needed to ask many questions. You will also see a chemo nurse prior to chemo starting and she will also provide you with further information . Sorry I haven’t really answered your question but that was my experience. 

Have a pad of paper next to where you sit in lounge or by your bed so that if you think of anything you can write it down. Certainly helped me. Gives you reminders of stuff you want to know. Some might get answered before you ask questions. 

Thank you Shade, my husband will be coming with me, hes my ears,brain and voice at the moment most of the time. I hope that you are doing well now and not suffering too many long term side effects.

Did you have a picc or port ?

Did you have steroids? 

Did you have bisphosphonates ?

Sorry for extra questions. Xxx

Thanks F1 petrolhead

I have a book which we have written things in before, when I asked surgeon I didnt really get many answers. I dont like feeling like a mushroom. 

I just need to know, its how my brain works.  

Xx

I know questions weren't to me but I had a picc line yes I had steroids to take after and Im now on anastrazole for 7 years

Hi Alison, I didn’t have a port, I wasn’t given that choice but my veins on the arm that  received the chemo  are shot. I had lymph nodes removed on the other side so couldn’t use that arm. I had steroids and I needed them to dampen down the immediate effect of the chemo on my body, although steroids have their side effects. I was given them for 3 days post chemo and additionally 24 hrs prior to the docataxel. I am receiving bisophosphates iv 6 monthly. 
I have recovered well from the chemo but I’m still having adjuvant treatment with a targeted drug Abemaciclib. I am on this drug for 2 years as well as letrozole but I’m coping ok, thank you for asking.
I have found the chemo nurses and oncologist very caring and have felt safe in their care. Wishing you all the best with your treatment.

F1 question was really for anyone  I might ask for picc line, as I don't fancy veins going.

I won't need some of the meds you and Shade have had as mine isn't hormone fed. Xx

Take whatever they give you. I didn't ask for a picc line. I was told it would be a canula by my oncologist but when chemo unit got my details.tjey told me it had to be a picc line knowing what I know now think I would of asked about a port as not so obvious and wouldn't have needed picc line covers etc and would have I think needed less maintenance appts

I'll see what I can get and what's best for me and my treatment, I have a 12 mile journey to and from the hospital.

How are you going to be getting to your chemo appointments with that distance. Might be worth a question re volunteer transport to get you there and back of you need to. I was fortunate my chemo unit was only 15 mins away