Hi everyone, this is my 1st cancer forum post.

Hi Bonnie Boo 

Still no treatment plan. I’m meeting the specialist next week Friday so hoping I’ll get an update then along with my genetics information. I have so many questions for them. 

I’ve been trying to enjoy the summer holidays with my boys before I have to start chemo. Healed up nicely from the surgery with just a bit of soreness left from the lymph nodes. 

Hope you’re enjoying summer! 

Hi first_timeTNBC & Bonnie Boo 

Thought I might pick your brains regarding the chemo. I’ve just had my first session of EC and I’m struggling to sleep. I’m a really good sleeper and never have this problem. I’ve read it’s the steroids. Did either of you experience this? If so, how long did it last? I’m due to have more steroids tmo and I’m worried I won’t be sleeping much again. 

So far I’m not feeling too bad from the chemo. Just a fuzzy head and red wee (classy!). I’m hoping it doesn’t get much worse (but I’m expecting the worst tmo and the day after). 

I’m cold capping and it wasn’t too bad yesterday so think I’m going to try to stick with that as best I can. I cut my hair off in preparation anyway and I think that’s helped (I cried for 2 days after as I finally had to admit something was wrong with me). 

What chemo treatments are you both on / did you have? Is there any tips to help with side effects you found really worked? 

Thanks both, x 

Hi 

nice to hear from you , I had 3xEC and 3 Docetaxol the EC was the easier than the Docetaxol. I had the fuzzy hangover head and a bit of nausea . The Docetaxol I have lost taste had a skin rash and so tired it’s unbelievable . I have my last one on Thursday it’s been hard but doable . Good luck xx I can’t sleep and haven’t slept well since diagnosis xxx

Hi Opalfruits2001.

I hope your side effects are continuing to be manageable. I have started EC today as well! Im a bit nervous about how I'll feel in the days to come. Up until now I've been getting weekly carboplatin and paclitaxel for the past 12 weeks.  I've had 2 days worth of steroids with every chemo and terrible insomnia for those 2 nights. I tried Kalms and that did help a bit, just taking 1 tablet 2 nights per week. I did also get some sleeping tablets prescribed but haven't needed up taking them as I was too worried about a 'hangover' when needing to get up with the kids. 

I still have my hair 13 weeks after starting chemo but got it cut like you and have gone shorter and shorter but I'm still using the cold cap. I find ice lollies good for nausea and don't be afraid to ask to change meds if yours aren't working to keep nausea at bay. Try to get plenty of rest when you feel you need it. Sending lots of love  and positive thoughts xx

I’m glad im not the only one who can’t sleep. It’s so hard when I’ve got to be up at 6 to get the kids ready for school regardless of how I’m feeling. Just happy I can go back to bed. 

I am a bit nauseous but I think it’s linked or the fuzzy head still. Had my anti sickness and steroids already but really don’t want to take stuff if I can avoid it. 

I’ll see how the sleep goes tonight as my nurse said have the steroids early in the day to help. Hopefully better tonight. 

How long does it take to feel remotely normal again for you? Just feel like I have a hangover. 

Also, have you been going out and meeting people as normal? I have 2 small kids which means I don’t think I avoid infection. Keen not to lock myself away but want to be sensible. 

I am hearing mixed things about Docetaxel. Some find it worse, some better. I’m only doing the cold cap as some said the hair loss from Docetaxel can be permanent for a handful of people. Hoping it helps avoid that situation. 

Enjoyed my first proper day of chilling on the sofa, catching up with bake off today so feeling better than this morning. 

Hi opalfriuts2001

my hair has started to grow back on the Docetaxol !! It’s fluffy !! Glad you’re having a better day I have been out shopping today which was nice . Good luck with your treatment xx