Rachel 

great you now have a plan , you will smash it 

big hugs Lara ️

Hi Rachel,

It sounds the same as me, triple negative breast cancer stage 3. Started the first chemo session today Epirubicin and Cyclophosphamide every 2 weeks for 4 cycles, then Carboplatin and Paclitaxel weekly for 12 cycles. It was supposed to start in 2-3 weeks but a cancellation came up so I took it. I broke down and cried when I realised 'it's here, it's happening' felt like I didn't have time to prepare, right up until I got there I was still tearful.

We got there at 9am had covid test, blood test, ecg, blood pressure, needle put in back of wrist and saline wash thru vein. Had to wait ages for results of blood test to come back to check my liver and kidneys were ok, had steroids iv while we waited, and measured for the cold cap which has to be on for 30 mins before treatment and 90 mins after so it adds 2 hours to the treatment but worth it if it works, it was awful at first, it felt heavy and tight but after 10 mins it was fine. I'm getting my hair cut short soon anyway.

There was free parking on site and a Macmillan cafe across the road where my daughter got us something to eat at lunchtime. There was also a kitchen on site we could make a cup of tea/coffee. It was really comfortable with armchairs, pillows, blankets, and you can sign in to the nhs wifi.

I got the actual chemo about 1.30pm and it took about 90 mins, we got out of there at 4.30pm. I'll be getting a picc line inserted next time which I'm not keen on but will make life easier, the blood test will be done 1-2 days before at Drs, so sessions from now won't take so long.

I have to inject myself (eek!) from day 3 for 7 days to boost bone marrow, and take some anti-sickness tablets for 3 days, but I'm wondering how crap I'm going to be feeling in a few days, just have to wait and see, I'm aiming at drinking 2 litres water a day, also the drugs turned my wee red, lol.

Hope this helps Rachel, it's the fear of the unknown isn't it, that gets you

Mima 

great you have started hope you feel ok just think one done countdown begins 

good luck love Lara ️

Hello I have just joined this site. And  I just wanted to ask how things are going for you. I had the same treatment plan as you and have just come to the end of treatments. How are you finding things. I really hope all is good. My surgery is not until the middle of November. 

Hi Rachel

I have recently had the same diagnosis and am feeling much the same as you.  In addition to the Carboplatin and Pacitaxel I'm also being given immunotherapy too.  I'm glad you had someone who could write it all down for you.  I'm afraid, like you, nothing much went in for me and I now can't remember the combination of drugs for each session.  The consultant did say he would include it all in a letter but I don't know when that will come through.  My plan sounds very similar to yours, weekly for 12 weks then once every three weeks for 12 weeks.  Lets support each other through this!  We can rock it, we will smash it and we will get through it and kick its ***!! 

Mine starts on 19 October.  I've just noticed your post is 4 months old, so it would be grand to know how you're getting on! 

Carol