Diagnosed 3 months ago stage 3 bowel cancer, did anyone drop chemo early?

Hi first post here. I am a 34 year old mom of 3 not long been diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer grade T4. Have had LARS and partial cystectomy and now just finished cycle 2 of chemo on oxaliplatin and capecitabine. I’m really struggling with oxaliplatin which I take intravenously on day 1. It knocks me out for a week, along with severe sickness / nausea and other side affects which I can handle. My oncologist said I can drop the drug after 4th cycle out of 8 and continue on cape only. Has anyone dropped oxaliplatin early and why? 

  • Hello HK2023

    I'm sorry to hear about your recent diagnosis and that you're currently struggling with side effects from the chemo. It's understandable that you have concerns about the changes in your treatment regime that the Oncologist has suggested. 

    Hopefully some of our members who have experience with this diagnosis will reply to share their experiences with you. You might also be able to connect with others through the Bowel Cancer UK website and forum. 

    We know that for many people it can help to chat through their concerns and questions with someone who understands. If you'd like to talk with one of our nurses I'm sure they will be happy to offer any advice, information, and support they can. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    I do hope that the hospital team is able to help better control some of the side effects through your next few treatment cycles. Keep in touch and let us know how you're getting on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator