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.  

Hello Crytchick and thanks for your post,

I am sorry to hear about your situation. I can understand how unsettling it can be not knowing what to expect. I am sure that when you start things will become much clearer.

The doctors will do all they can to help prevent the cancer coming back with the treatment that you are having. It is difficult for me to comment on the statistics that you have been given without being involved in your care so do continue to ask them if this is causing you some concern.

I can understand how difficult it can be thinking about losing your hair. There are so many good wigs and beautiful scarves. We do have some information on our website that has tips on hair loss that you might find helpful to look at.

You may also find it helpful to look at some tips on how to prepare yourself for chemotherapy eating a well balanced diet, making sure that you are eating fruit and vegetables and drinking enough fluid.

Have a look at the information on what to eat before and during treatment.

If you would like to ring and talk through any of this with one of the nurses on the helpline then you are welcome to get back to us.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

All the best,

Catherine

Yes, it's to prevent ot coming back.  I had clear margins from brwast and lymph nodes. 

It is very confusing indeed. 

Il be having hormone tablets too which will benefit me the most.

I wear a hat at home which I bought from Amazon. 

I have worn wigs out. At first,  I wasn't feeling the best about it all but afterwards I was ok.

Cold cap only works for certain people. It just didn't work for me.

I don't look in the mirror without a hat on etc. So I put my wig on first then look in the mirror to fix it

I have a extravasation on my hand from when the 1st chemotherapy.  So now I have damaged tissue abs unable to use my right hand,  which is my dominant hand.

Hospital reviewed my hand on Monday when I went for my chemotherapy and I'm not happy. 

I was listed from pillar to post and now I'm having sleepless nights in agony. 

I'm going to ring my brwast care nurse for support and advice because no-one wants to take responsibility. 

Thank you I shall have a look x

That's shocking, as if chemo isn't bad enough. I hope you get it sorted sending you lots of love ️ 

Had my appointment with my NEW oncologist and a total difference from that awful one I saw.

I will be getting 1 treatment of chemotherapy a week, with 3wks off, for 12wks.

Then 1 a week for 9 wks.

They are getting things started. Had my letter through for making an appointment to get a wig fitted but I don't think I will do it. I think I will be too emotional xx

Thank you 

I'm glad you have had a better experience with your new Oncologist. 

I know what you mean.  It is emotional.  Is there someone you could take with you for emotional support? Xx

I'm pleased that things are going in the right direction for you. At least you now know what you are dealing with in terms of treatment. 

My next chemotherapy is tomorrow. I know what to expect in terms of side effects.  I think once you have had a couple of treatments,  you will be prepared for the next one , emotionally more than anything xx

I'm on morphine now but that's only because I've put a complaint in.  Prior to this, no one wanted to take responsibility of prescribing me medication.  Got an xray today because no movement in my right hand. 

My sister, but I'm still undecided about making the appointment. 

First chemo tomorrow, got fitted for the cold cap on friday when i was there for bloods etc.

At least after tomorrow I will know how everything goes.

Sadly my sister is away on holiday as we never thought the appointment for chemo would come through so quickly so I'm on my own, a friend is dropping me off and picking me up.

Got a heart scan at the end of May.

How are you doing regards side effects?

The morphine... that's shocking, especially in this day and age!

Hopefully they can sort out your hand, that's scary stuff xx

Thank you xx

Thank you xx