Oncologist appointment tomorrow - what questions should I ask?

After being diagnosed on 18th January and going through all the various test, I finally get to see the oncologist tomorrow. Would like to hear from anyone who has any suggestions about what questions would be good to ask. 

Also what are your experiences of how long it took for treatment to start after first oncology appointment. As my breast cancer is grade 3 and fast growing, I'm worried about it spreading, before my treatment even gets started. 

Was it suggested you have a PICC line or port?

Parents
  • Ok, so it's finally happening, hair is starting to fall out! I knew it was going to happen soon, but still felt a little panic set in. This morning there was no sign of it coming out, by tonight, I was barely touching it and it's just falling out. Think it will go quickly, so might consider just shaving it off. Certainly all seems more real now!

Reply
  • Ok, so it's finally happening, hair is starting to fall out! I knew it was going to happen soon, but still felt a little panic set in. This morning there was no sign of it coming out, by tonight, I was barely touching it and it's just falling out. Think it will go quickly, so might consider just shaving it off. Certainly all seems more real now!

Children
  • Hi Pippin,

    I'm sorry to hear this - remember that this is just a temporary blip.

    Thinking of you,

    Jolamine xx

  • Hi Pippin 

    I am sorry hun, its OK to feel what you are feeling right now. Take your time and just do what is right for you and empowers you x

  • Thanks Jolamine, I know you are right and it will grow back. Not sure why it came as such a shock really!

  • Hi MadhatterC, didn't sleep much last night and lay listening to some relaxing music. Have to admit I did have a cry. As much as I tried to prepare for it, the reality of it hit me like a sledgehammer. Really didn't expect it to be so difficult. Hubby was due to go out for the day today, first time since my treatment started. He's decided to stay home, bless him, as he feels that I need him today. Just need to pick myself back up and put my positive head back on!

  • Oh bless you, I can't imagine the feeling hun and I did think it would be playing through your head last night. I just come to the thinking with mine that it's like grief (even through it temporary and grows back) and there is no right or wrong way to feel about it as it part of us. So if you feel you need some time to be sad and cry you do that. If you want to be angry punch a pillow etc you do that, and then when you feel ready get that positive head back on tell this little sod that is attacking your body what for and give it the middle finger mate  

  • Thank you so much for your support. It is so helpful talking to others who understand what this roller coaster is like. I've detcided to phone shop where I bought my wig and arrange an appointment to shave it all off. Hopefully they will be able to fit me in soon, if not hubby will give it a go. Not sure he really wants to do it though!

  • So sorry hun.  Whilst I’m not there yet I completely feel all the emotions you describe. Hair loss is the one thing I’ve been so worried about.  It is what makes it all so real.  I echo all the other comments.  It’s a great idea to take control and shave it off. Rock the headwear and wigs.   You’ve got this xxxx sending love xx

  • Hey Pippin,

    Sorry you're finding it a bit tough with your hair loss...i think you're totally right, it's one thing thinking about losing your hair and going wig shopping etc but I think it's a totally different thing when it becomes a reality. Definitely allow yourself to feel the feels..i have a feeling there will be a lot of ups and downs throughout this crazy cancer ride! Was your head itchy before it started coming out or any other signs? 

    So glad your husband has stayed at home today, I think you need that support and good luck getting your hair cut too. I bet you will totally rock your new look...and before you know it those hair follicles will be growing back thick and fast.

    Sending love - i can imagine this bit is tough so be kind to yourself xx

  • Hi Greeny80, after a rubbish night last night, I'm feeling much better today. The lovely ladies in the wig shop fitted me in to cut my hair today. It's now done, a number 4 with the clippers. I took my wig with me, so they could run through how to put it on and washing it, just to refresh my memory. My head does feel itchy today, I noticed it as soon as I got up. I assume its due to changes in the hair follicles. Sorry to hear that you had an allergic reaction to the E part of your treatment. Will you need to see the oncologist again before the next cycle, to discuss it? Not great that you felt so sick last night and that it disturbed your sleep. Hope you're feeling a bit better today. Hopefully that won't happen next time, once they sort out which chemo will be best for you. Keep in touch and let me know how things go. Xx

  • Ah glad you're feeling more postive and supported and hopefully now you've had your hair cut it actually feels better than you thought...sometimes it's like ripping the band aid off, it's the anticpation which is worse. Really hope you're doing ok and rocking your new look!! How are you feeling about it now?

    Yes my oncologist was there when it happened so he's now put me onto TC for the remaining 5 rounds so let's hope no allergic reactions to that! It's definitely not the start i wanted but iclearly my body had other ideas!....I'm quickly learning that cancer and cancer treament is very unpreidcatble and you have just have to try and go with the flow...and be prepared to change plans...

    Taking all the anti sickness and steroids they've given me and getting outside has definitely helped today so hoping for a better night tonight!...just had my first injection today too...how long was it before you had any reaction to that? 

    Take care and hope you have a good rest of the week xx