More scared of the treatments then the cancer

I’m about to start chemotherapy in the next week and I’m terrified, I’m afraid of pain, afraid of vomiting, afraid of the long term effects.. then radiation.. all of the above..  and losing my independence my hair my femininity and afterwards? How do I live afterwards? Am I doing the chemo and radiation for me.. or because if I don’t I’m quitting and not fighting like I’m meant too 

sorry it’s not the best post.. am I the only one that feels this? 

  • Hello Smile-always, and welcome to the 'club' that no-one ever wants to join.  Just like you, I was terrified of the thought of having chemo.  It was after my third treatment that strands of my waist-length blonde hair started coming out in clumps..........I had already bought some wigs but to be honest I found them to be very hot and they made my bald head feel very itchy.  I ended up wearing head scarves instead.  Amazon do a very good range of these scarves and you might want to take a look at them. I can assure you that there is nothing 'wrong' in how you are feeling.  Many of us have been down the same road, or are going through it right now.  What I would like to add is that somehow, you will find the strength to get through this.......in fact, you will be amazed when you discover just how strong you really are.  I know I was!  Good luck my Love, and please keep us informed in how things go for you, xx

  • Hi,

    I was diagnosed late because I hadn’t experienced all the usual symptoms of Stage 4 cancer. No real pain (except heartburn), no unexplained weight loss, no decrease in energy levels. 
    The only physical suffering I had was through the side effects of the chemo. 

    Chemo affects everyone differently. After being told that I’d probably lose all my hair, including my eyelashes and eyebrows, I only had a little thinning on top. I did experience almost everything else though. 

    I hesitated to start chemo and to go in for every single chemo session. I suspect that everyone does. In the end logic won over my fear as I kept telling myself “3 months without chemo, up to 2 years with”. 

    Only you can make that decision. I’ve known people for whom the chemo delivered no benefits, but I’ve also known far more people (including me, my Mum and my Grandad) who gained quality years with their families as a result. 

    Good luck!
    Dave