Chemotherapy

Hi,

I am due to start chemotherapy for breast cancer. 

Please could any share their experiences.  I'm a nervous wreck, unsure whether to carry on working etc... scared of the side effects etc.

Is the pain really bad?

Any experience would be much appreciated. 

Thank you 

Parents
  • I just had my first appointment with the oncologist and hopefully my last with her as she was horrific, cold totally lacking empathy and not a sympathic bone in her body.

    The cold cap has never been mentioned to me by any of the Bzc nurses or the oncologist even though I know the local hospital was gifted one and had it still in 2022.

    All Ive kept being told is I will lose my hair.

    I've bought loads of wigs from shein since November when I was first told chemo was a possibility. I was told by the nurse on Tuesday that they will supply a wig and names of salons who can style it for me. (I'm in Scotland) 

    Please keep us updated on how your chemo goes x

  • I'm so sorry to hear this.

    My breast care nurse wasn't compassionate.  When she told me in January that I might have to have chemotherapy, I burst into tears. I was on my own that day. When I cried, she got up and walked me out the the door. 

    So I completely understand how you feel , I really do. Could you speak to the Oncologist receptionist and ask if you could have the cold cap? If that's what you would like?

    Luckily,  I only get calls from her now. The last call was from her colleague as she was absent and she was so much better. Sympathy and didn't rush me.

    My Oncologist was amazing and the nurse who accompanied him was amazing.  

  • It's shocking isn't it that people like that are involved with people at their most vulnerable.

    The cold cap wasn't mentioned by any one I've seen, I know the hospital had one up to 2022. No idea if they still have it but its hasn't been mentioned or offered.

    I've heard from people who say the headaches from it are really bad, I've been getting migraines since I was 11, I don't cope well with headaches. 

    I'm glad you won't have to see that woman again,  my BC nurse is going to try and get my oncologist changed, I told her I can't possibly be dealing with her when I'm at my most vulnerable 

  • I'm so sorry yo hear this. You're right. They should be more compassionate.  I good you get to change your Oncologist.

    I'm going to my appointment tomorrow so I will know more about the cold cap tomorrow.

    I suffer with really bad migraines so I will see how I go. 

    It's a shame that the cold. Cap wasn't offered to you.

    Big hugs xx

  • They gave me a headband and conditioner for the cold cap. They said the chemotherapy itself is only 20-30 minutes.  I will be given strong anti sickness tablets an hour before treatment. Then I will be given tablets for three days after treatment to help with energy. Then the day after I've had my final tablet, I will need injections for 3 days in my stomach.  Its alot to take in.

    The nurse showed me the cold cap and said it will stay on 30 hours before and 1.5 hours after treatment 

  • I'm glad it went well for you and that you are getting the cold cap.

    I got told my chemotherapy will be 4hrs each day!

    Anyway hope the lack of too many side effects continues x

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