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Anyone have ACT Chemo Treatment?

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kirby View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote kirby Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 10 2009 at 4:30pm
Nancy,
 
I know you get so passionate about your beliefs however it does come across a bit judgemental. Fortunately everyone is different along with their opinions, beliefs & feelings as well as dr.s thoughts, beliefs on a subject. 
 
Aren't we all glad to have choice.
kirby

dx Feb. 2001. Age 44
Lumpectomy

2cm. no nodes stage 1 grade 3

4 rnds AC, 35 rads
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote girlpower731 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 10 2009 at 4:40pm
Lysie,
 
You mentioned in your post that you had migraines prior to having chemo treatment.  Since chemo treatment, have they completely gone away?  And were the migraines focused around your menstrual cycle?
 
I am concerned that I will be getting migraines every two weeks b/c I am no longer on the pill.  I may be getting lupran to suppress the ovaries (my fertility doctor is discussing it with my oncologist--the final say isn't in yet) and I guess there is always the chance that I could fall into menapause, but I would rather not start that stage of my life in my early 30's.
 
Has anyone here had lupran that was not menapausal and after treatment you did not have menapause, you period came back within the first 2 years after chemo ended (my doctor said 25% of women don't get their period back).  I wanted to see if anyone had any info/stories about lupran.
 
Thanks.
 
Girlpower
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote girlpower731 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 10 2009 at 4:54pm
Since everyone is talking about birth control and bio identical hormones I have a couple questions.
 
Since being diagnosed with breast cancer (applies to women specifically) is it usual to switch your OBGYN to someone that has more experience with a breast cancer survivor?  The reason why I ask is b/c the midwife that I have seen through this journey (started July 27th, 2009) would rather that I NEVER go back on birth control, even though she knows that I am TN.  Now, let me just say that this particular midwife doesn't know a temendous amount about bc, her words not mine.  So I'm wondering if I should look for a doctor (OBGYN) that has more experience so that once my treatment is done (hopefully I wont be menapausal) I can go back on birth control to regulate my hormones.  Otherwise, I get migraines every other week.  I've been so lucky to be on seasonique (every 3 month regimen) that I get migraines less frequently.
 
I haven't done a ton of research about bio-identical hormones, but I was looking forward to having it as an option when it came time.  Is it hard to find a doctor to prescribe them since we are bc survivors, or not so much b/c we are TN?
 
Girlpower
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote lroppe Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 11 2009 at 2:54pm
I had this exact same treatment (4 X AC every two weeks and then Taxol 4 X every two weeks).  I finished chemo at the end of Feb, then did radiation and finished that in May 2009.  I am doing great now.  While on AC, the first week was blech and the second week was really fine.  Taxol wasn't as bad as AC.  It is awful but also do-able at the same time.  You can do it, I promise!  Best to you!

XOXOX Laura
Laura
lumpectomy 10/7/08 5 mm lump
Dx 10/10/08, age 37,
wider margin lumpectomy and node biopsy 10/21/08
IDC Stage 2, Grade 3
8 rounds/every 2 weeks (AC+T)started 11/20/08 + radiation
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote unklezwifeonty Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 11 2009 at 3:43pm
Originally posted by girlpower731 girlpower731 wrote:

....I'm wondering if I should look for a doctor (OBGYN) that has more experience so that once my treatment is done (hopefully I wont be menapausal) I can go back on birth control to regulate my hormones....


Dear GirlPower,

If I were you I'd definitely look for an OBGYN that has experience with BC. Some research hospitals have gynecological oncologists who specialize in cancers of the cervix, uterus, ovaries, tubes, etc. If available, these specialists would be another good source of advice. If not, do make sure your OBGYN talks to your ONCOLOGIST before prescribing birth control. It will also help if you share fertility concerns with your ONCOLOGIST at your next visit so she can recommend and treat appropriately.

Regards, Aunty

Dx: Jul/09. Age: 37. Grade: High. Size: 3cm. BRCA: -ve. Lumpectomy: Aug/09. Micromet 1/9 node. Chemo Start: Sep/09. Kicked from E5103 due to Taxol reaction. Now on AC->Abraxane. Zometa (S0307).
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Nancy Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 11 2009 at 3:57pm
Dear girlpower,
 
You asked about finding a doctor to prescribe biodenticals, and the one that Lori goes to does not have a problem at all. I have info on the biodenticals and will pm you with my email address. You have to look for an antiaging doctor.
Nancy
Nancy
DD Lori dx TNBC June 13,2007
Lumpectomy due to incorrect dx of a cyst
mastectomy July 6 2007
chemo ACT all 3 every 3 weeks 6 tx Aug-Nov
28 rads ended Jan 2008
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote LRM216 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 12 2009 at 2:58pm
Just finished my last taxotere on Thursday and am going through my se's as I type (it's Saturday).  While I am so very thankful I am done with the chemo, I am also scared to be done with it.  Make any sense?  I have 6 weeks of rads ahead which will start in 4 weeks, but I am nervous coming to the end.  I am so afraid of recurrence, but also realize I can't stay on this god forsaking chemo forever either.  I am trying to celebrate - I really am.  Anyone else go through this?
 
Linda
Linda - diagnosed at age 62
Diag 2/23/09 IDC 1.2 cent. IDC right breast,Stage 1, Grade 3,0/1 nodes - Triple Neg
4 DD AC every two weeks, 1 Dd Taxol, then 3 Taxotere every three weeks - rads x 33
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote girlpower731 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 14 2009 at 6:30am
Just to give everyone an update on what I was going through earlier...
 
I ended up switching my oncologist (to oncologist #2) b/c I felt she had a better team and treatment plan.  My fertility doctor has been in contact with my new oncologist and they will be having me take lupran shots once I'm done with the fertility phase (exact date of shot still to be determined by doctors). 
 
I'm geting genetically tested for BRCA1 and BRCA2 this Weds.  The results don't come back for about 3 weeks.  I'm chopping off all my hair (it's pretty long) this Thursday Cry so that a company can make a hip hat for me with it.  If I'm lucky, I'll have it back in time for my birthday later this month.  Fortunately I did find a wig that is close to my real hair (shorter though) so I'm hoping for the best with it.  I did get a bunch of hats from headcovers.com which I've already been using (trying to get used to wearing hats in general).
 
I'm still a little freaked out about the port or PICC line going in, but as with everything else, I'll get over it in good time. 
 
Nancy:
Thanks for the PM.  I will definitely go get the book from Amazon and read up on it. 
 
Girlpower
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote trip2 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 14 2009 at 8:00am
Girlpower,
 
This will all work out, it seems so overwhelming, so many things that need done.  It is important to try to focus on one day or one step at a time if you can do that.  Also a mild sedative can work wonders!
 
Losing your hair can be quite a traumatic experience for us but you know what?  It sounds like you are getting a grip and getting prepared, good for you!
 
Getting your port or PICC line will or should be a quick and easy procedure.
 
If you haven't already look for our chemo tips in the News/Resource section.
 
Also good for you for switching docs after deciding your preferred the other one.  We can't know for sure but we get a feeling from what is said that can make a difference.
 
Best wishes
Stage 2 2003
Stage 1 2007
BRCA 1+
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote lysie05 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 14 2009 at 9:08am
Girlpower,
Before all this started i was on the pill and had very severe migraines about every 6 months.  I had almost every neuro symptom from amnesia to impaired speech.  I know my period had an effect but i also found the barometric pressure also caused them.  I would monitor the weather and if their was a change i took an excedrin migraine.  i found it greatly reduced them. I felt sure they would increase when i was removed from the pill but I've gone about 24 months with no migraine now.
 
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote LRM216 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 14 2009 at 10:10am
I think you will find the port a lifeline.  My onc at my last chemo last week asked me when I wanted it out. I am keeping my in for quite some time.  It saves on my tiny veins for bloodwork (a God-send) and since it's a power port can also be used for scans, etc.  Of course, I am also afraid to remove it - as God forbid, I don't know whether or not I could face having it put back in if necessary.  Good luck.
 
Linda
Linda - diagnosed at age 62
Diag 2/23/09 IDC 1.2 cent. IDC right breast,Stage 1, Grade 3,0/1 nodes - Triple Neg
4 DD AC every two weeks, 1 Dd Taxol, then 3 Taxotere every three weeks - rads x 33
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote trip2 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 14 2009 at 11:13am
I'm hanging onto mine this time too Linda.  As you point out they are a blessing when we have to have so many needle sticks.
Stage 2 2003
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BRCA 1+
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote unklez Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 14 2009 at 11:21am
Dear Linda, what is a power port and how does it differ from a normal port?

Wife Dx: Jul/09. Age: 37. Size: 3cm. BRCA: -ve. Lumpectomy: Aug/09. Micromet 1/9 node. Chemo Start: Sep/09. E5103. DD ACB-> DD Abraxane (Taxol reaction). Zometa (S0307). Canadian Fraction Rads.
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Kellyless Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 14 2009 at 12:41pm

My doc told me that if I kept the port in I would need to go in once a month and have it flushed or it wouldn't be usable, and that he doesn't like to leave it in over a year because the tubing going into your vein can become brittle - and in some cases break off, which is dangerous.  So I went ahead and had it taken out - leap of faith! 

IDC, 2.2 cm, Stage IIb,lumpectomy 1/30/09 ACx4,Tx4 36 rads
6/1/16 Local recurrence same breast, same spot 1.8cm Carb.4x every 3 wks, Taxol 12x once wk. Dbl Mast. PCR!! Reconstruction fail, NED!
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote unklez Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 14 2009 at 12:43pm
Dear Kelly, how painful is it to get the port placed and removed?

Wife Dx: Jul/09. Age: 37. Size: 3cm. BRCA: -ve. Lumpectomy: Aug/09. Micromet 1/9 node. Chemo Start: Sep/09. E5103. DD ACB-> DD Abraxane (Taxol reaction). Zometa (S0307). Canadian Fraction Rads.
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote trip2 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 14 2009 at 12:50pm
Kelly,
 
My surgeon did tell me also one year, never explained the tubing going brittle but that is par for other things he didn't tell me.  I did get mine removed one year after the first time.
 
When I was diagnosed again, got another port so hanging onto this one for awhile.  I do keep it flushed, it works great and unfortunately gets alot of use.
 
Stage 2 2003
Stage 1 2007
BRCA 1+
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote trip2 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 14 2009 at 12:54pm
Unkle,
 
Here is a power port,
 
 
How is your wife doing?
Stage 2 2003
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Nancy Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 14 2009 at 1:04pm
Dear unkle,
 
If you have not already printed out the chemo tips, please do so. There are two long posts from Connie as to who should place the port/PICC line, and everyone should read that before making their decision. Most surgeons are not qualified to do the placement, but an Interventional Radiologist is. Just read Connie's posts in the tips.
Nancy
Nancy
DD Lori dx TNBC June 13,2007
Lumpectomy due to incorrect dx of a cyst
mastectomy July 6 2007
chemo ACT all 3 every 3 weeks 6 tx Aug-Nov
28 rads ended Jan 2008
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote unklez Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 14 2009 at 1:34pm
Originally posted by Nancy Nancy wrote:

Dear unkle,
 

If you have not already printed out the chemo tips, please do so. There are two long posts from Connie as to who should place the port/PICC line, and everyone should read that before making their decision. Most surgeons are not qualified to do the placement, but an Interventional Radiologist is. Just read Connie's posts in the tips.

Nancy


Thank you. I thought the only two choices were a Port and or a PICC line. Not sure I know how a Power Port differs from a Port or any other ports.

We are leaning towards Port because one arm of ECOG 5103, which we want to go for, goes on for 1 year and Ports last longer than PICC line if we understood right.

Also learned from posts by Connie and others that Interventional Radiologist do the best job at placing these access devices.

Wife is doing fine. Just an emotionally difficult time waiting for the oncologist consults.

Wife Dx: Jul/09. Age: 37. Size: 3cm. BRCA: -ve. Lumpectomy: Aug/09. Micromet 1/9 node. Chemo Start: Sep/09. E5103. DD ACB-> DD Abraxane (Taxol reaction). Zometa (S0307). Canadian Fraction Rads.
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote dmwolf Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep 14 2009 at 1:57pm
Unklez, have you educated yourselves on the controversy around avastin, especially avastin without a concurrent cytotoxic?    Avastin with a cytotoxic I'd consider, that is, taking avastin during the chemo phase of treatment with ACT.  But continuing on Avastin for a year after the chemo phase might make me nervous.  What do you guys think?  How have you reasoned it through?

Best,
Denise


Edited by dmwolf - Sep 14 2009 at 2:39pm
DX 2/08@43 stg II IDC; gr2,0 nodes. Neoadj chemo, first ACx2 (fail) then CarboTaxotereX6(better). Lump, Rads done 11/08; Clodronate. False alarm queen: PetCT lung & TM marker. NED. PBM w/recon 9/10.
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