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Just found out I need 18 weeks of Chemotherapy. Struggling

Tanpep
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Had my lumpectomy in December, still having problems with my arm after lymph node removal. Just got the results of my oncotype dx test after a 5 week delay in it being sent. I was shocked when I was told I've got to have 18 weeks of chemotherapy before 7 weeks of radiotherapy and am finding it difficult to think about anything else. The thought of feeling unwell and my hair falling out and all the side effects chemotherapy causes. How do you get through it

  • I'm so sorry your oncotype dx results have taken so long to come through and that you now have to have chemo and radiotherapy.

    This must be a lot to get your head around but our community are here for you and I'm sure those who have been down this path will offer their support and advice to you soon.

    You can find out more about chemotherapy for breast cancer on our website but if you would like to talk things through with one of our cancer nurses then you're welcome to get in touch with them on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m. They're very friendly, and informative, and will do all they can to answer your questions and put your mind at ease about your upcoming treatment.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

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    Hi Tanpep

    I'm Sarah 38. I'm two cycles, I am having three FEC and 3 Docetaxel? Is this the same as you? 
     

    Firstly it's not as bad as what you may think, the side effects can be managed. You will be prescribed lots of antisickness tables take them all when your supposed too, you will also be given some extra for when you need them, I kept a Diary after my first cycle to know what to expect from the second and third etc.  You will feel unwell but it doesn't last all of the three weeks ( I have three weeks in between mine) I find the 3 days after Chemo I can't do much so just rest, make sure you drink your 4 pints of fluids the days after too flush it out, you will start too feel better as the days go on.

    I'm using the cold cap to try and keep some hair, again it's not the most comfy but it very do-able. 
     

    Happy to answer any questions that may put your mind at rest

    love sarah 

  • Offline in reply to snow-drop

    Thankyou for replying  it's nice to get feedback from other people that have had or are having treatment. I'm going to see my oncologist on Tuesday to find out exactly what treatment I will be having.

  • Offline in reply to Tanpep

    That's good, have a good chat with your oncologist, hopefully he will re-assure you a bit. 

    It is scary I felt the same, but once you get the first one done you will feel a lot better. 
     

    Much Love 

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    Hiya.

    I underwent my chemo last year June through to Sept.  3 cycles of fec then 3 of docetaxol.  It really is nt as scary as you think. You can get through it with a positive attitude , loads of water , eat healthy , exercise . I also used the cold cap which was so worth it and made me feel much better about myself. I did nt suffer any horrendous side effects . Swill 3 times a day with coconut oil as a mouthwash too as it prevents mouth sores. You ve got this girl... sending love xx

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