Preparing for chemotherapy

Hi Sammie1726

So very sorry that you have cause to be on here.

Do you know which Chemo you will be having?

Kegsy x

This is the treatment I'm having. I'm really scared as I don't know what to expect 

Hi

There is no reason to be scared.

Given the type of chemo you will be receiving, it is likely that your chemo will be delivered intravenously via a canula into the back of your hand (which is a tad uncomfortable but no more so than a blood test).

You will be attached to a portable chemo pump that monitors/regulates the flow of chemo into your blood stream.  Before the chemo is started and after it has all gone in, via the pump you will receive a number of 'flushes' of saline.  

What goes in has to come out and as quickly as possible, so do not try to hold it in! You will probably need to visit the loo at least once per session,accompanied by your chemo pump.  With this in mind and taking into account that you will also have a cannula  in the back of one hand, what you wear will help to make this a lot easier; no tights or leggings, no button fastenings etc. I found that loose fitting elasticated waist trousers were ideal; think baggy jogging pants. Where chemo is concerned, practicality over-rides style.

It will not be a quick process, so you may wish to take a book, tablet etc with you to help pass the time.

I hope this helps a bit.  

Kegsy x

There are lots of Introduction to Chemotherapy on UTube. I used the one from Northern Cancer Centre NHS as well as attending a pre assessment. I’m due to start chemo next Saturday. I’ve also received some B12 and steroids to be taken at specific times. I’m having a cold cap and also have a wig prescription.

At home I’ve bought hand sanitiser and surface sanitiser to keep my hands, door handles and toilet seat clean. I have some gentle organic shampoo, more dental brushes, a thermometer, E45 and baby toothbrushes. I still need to have some factor 50 suncream for more skin protection. 

I’ve been thinking about food and will certainly make some red lentil soup, increase my dark greens intake (unless it tastes really bad) but will eat anything I fancy as suggested by Maggie’s and the nurses. I will also be able to have a prescription for high protein shakes if I’m finding it difficult eating.

The hospital certainly keeps an eye on you and there is a 24hour emergency number if you have ANY health worries.

Good luck with your chemo. Your hospital should look after you. Daisy