Choosing Chemotherapy
Printed From: TNBC Foundation
Category: TNBC Forums
Forum Name: Let's Talk About Chemotherapy
Forum Description: A place to discuss Chemotherapy
URL: http://forum.tnbcfoundation.org/forum_posts.asp?TID=11898
Printed Date: Mar 26 2026 at 9:22pm
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 12.01 - http://www.webwizforums.com
Topic: Choosing Chemotherapy
Posted By: lilyrose
Subject: Choosing Chemotherapy
Date Posted: Mar 28 2014 at 11:14pm
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I am near the beginning of my treatment for TNBC. I was diagnosed on 2/5/14. Chose lumpectomy which I had on 3/11/14 and met with my oncologist yesterday. He basically gave me three choices of treatment. 1) skip chemo - which he doesn't recommend 2) go with Taxotere/Carboplatin every three weeks for 4-6 times plus Neulasta 3) go with Adriamycin/Cytoxan every other week 4 times, then add Taxol weekly for 12 weeks. I was told that I will also receive rads after chemo. He tells me I will need a port for option 3, plus a heart function test. He already scheduled me for blood work plus a PET scan next week. I believe I am also getting tested for BRCA. I am seeing him again next Friday, so we can go over my test results and further discuss my treatment plan. He said he wants me to be comfortable with my choice, but I feel out of my league trying to decide. Just wanted to hear what some of you have done and how you managed on it. Also, would you choose the same treatment you had, if given the choice. I realize everyone's situation is different, but I feel that those of you who have been down this road can better understand what I'm facing. I would sincerely appreciate your feedback. Thanks, lilyrose ------------- DX 2/14, age 60, IDC TNBC BRCA- Stage 1,Grade 3, lumpectomy 3/14, 2cm, 0/4 nodes, clear margins 4/14, A/C DD 4rounds 6/14 Taxol weekly x 12 9/25 Rads 26 + 8 boosts |
Replies:
Posted By: Lillie
Date Posted: Mar 29 2014 at 9:17am
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Dear Sweet lilyrose,
Your oncologist has handed you a plate full of options. They range from nothing to agressive. Good luck with whatever you choose.
I personally had option 3 when I did chemo. My taxol was every other week for 4 treatments unlike the 12 weekly treatments he suggests.
Have you had the oncotype testing to see how aggressive your cancer is? That plays a big part in what treatment you should get. I know two ladies who were stage 1 (not TN) but their oncotype tests showed aggressive cancer so they both had a variation of option 3.
Since triple negative is legendary for traveling through the vascular system, I certainly would not want to skip the chemo. Chemo and radiation are all we have to fight this monster, so please be aggressive from the beginning. You will not get another first chance to fight this.
 Kick the stuffings out of any cancer cells that could be left after surgery.I hope you don't find my post too overbearing, but I've seen what happens when ladies settle for less than the best.
Love and God Bless,
Lillie
------------- Dx 6/06 age 65,IDC-TNBC Stage IIb,Gr3,2cm,BRCA- 6/06 L/Mast/w/SNB,1of3 Nodes+ 6/06 Axl. 9 nodes- 8/8 thru 11/15 Chemo (Clin-Trial) DD A/Cx4 -- DD taxol+gemzar x4 No Rads. No RECON - 11/2018-12 yrs NED |
Posted By: lilyrose
Date Posted: Mar 29 2014 at 10:40pm
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Dear Lillie, Thank you for your reply. And no, I did not find your post too overbearing! I appreciate honest answers, particularly on this subject. When I met with the onc on Thursday, he seemed pretty confident that option #2 would be sufficient. However, he called me the next morning and said he felt that option #3 would be better for me. That made me a bit more nervous. I was also a little surprised that he ordered a PET scan for me. For some reason, I thought I wouldn't get one until after chemo. Also, I thought they only did oncotype testing on hormone receptive BC. I will ask him about that. I am not looking forward to starting chemo, but I agree with you about being aggressive. I want to kick this to the curb asap! So this week will be full for me with tests and dr appointments. I suppose I'd better get used to it. Thank you again. With love, lilyrose ------------- DX 2/14, age 60, IDC TNBC BRCA- Stage 1,Grade 3, lumpectomy 3/14, 2cm, 0/4 nodes, clear margins 4/14, A/C DD 4rounds 6/14 Taxol weekly x 12 9/25 Rads 26 + 8 boosts |
Posted By: 123Donna
Date Posted: Mar 30 2014 at 12:41pm
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Lilyrose, You may want to seek a second opinion from another onc. There might even be a 4th option to consider. Number 3 but add Carboplatin to the Taxol. Check out this link and if you want, talk to your oncologist. http://forum.tnbcfoundation.org/adding-carboplatin-increases-pcr_topic11688.html" rel="nofollow - http://forum.tnbcfoundation.org/adding-carboplatin-increases-pcr_topic11688.html ------------- DX IDC TNBC 6/09 age 49, Stage 1,Grade 3, 1.5cm,0/5Nodes,KI-67 48%,BRCA-,6/09bi-mx, recon, T/C X4(9/09) 11/10 Recur IM node, Gem,Carb,Iniparib 12/10,MRI NED 2/11,IMRT Radsx40,CT NED11/13,MRI NED3/15 |
Posted By: Lillie
Date Posted: Mar 30 2014 at 3:17pm
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Dear lilyrose,
You are correct saying that hormone receptor BC gets the oncotype testing. I got carried away with my post. I've recently seen 3 ladies with stage I, ER cancer get chemotherapy because of their oncotype results. Also getting a PET before beginning chemo is not that unusual. Lots of oncologist like to be sure that you are totally cancer free, except for the breast, before they begin treatment. It is usually for a baseline reading.
Donna had a good suggestion about a second opinion.
Good luck and
God Bless,
Lillie
------------- Dx 6/06 age 65,IDC-TNBC Stage IIb,Gr3,2cm,BRCA- 6/06 L/Mast/w/SNB,1of3 Nodes+ 6/06 Axl. 9 nodes- 8/8 thru 11/15 Chemo (Clin-Trial) DD A/Cx4 -- DD taxol+gemzar x4 No Rads. No RECON - 11/2018-12 yrs NED |
Posted By: lilyrose
Date Posted: Mar 31 2014 at 9:56am
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Thanks for your response, Donna! the onc dr that I saw last week was my second opinion. The first guy I saw made me feel like he was uninterested in most of my questions. I knew after the first five minutes that he would not be my dr. I am considering getting a third opinion...just hoping my insurance will cover it. The second dr did talk to me about carboplatin. He also told me he would be available 24/7 during my chemo. He told me to call him any hour day or night if I have a fever or any other physical symptoms that he will further go over with me. Still not sure what I'm going to do. I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed. Thanks for all the info you post on here. Bless you, lilyrose ------------- DX 2/14, age 60, IDC TNBC BRCA- Stage 1,Grade 3, lumpectomy 3/14, 2cm, 0/4 nodes, clear margins 4/14, A/C DD 4rounds 6/14 Taxol weekly x 12 9/25 Rads 26 + 8 boosts |
Posted By: lilyrose
Date Posted: Mar 31 2014 at 10:02am
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Dear Lillie, Thank you for your support. This website has been such a blessing. I am still trying to decide what my plan will be. I really don't want to burden my dear husband with more. He has been very supportive, but I know he is really worried. I'm off to my PET scan today. Wish me luck! Bless you, lilyrose ------------- DX 2/14, age 60, IDC TNBC BRCA- Stage 1,Grade 3, lumpectomy 3/14, 2cm, 0/4 nodes, clear margins 4/14, A/C DD 4rounds 6/14 Taxol weekly x 12 9/25 Rads 26 + 8 boosts |
Posted By: Natalie
Date Posted: Mar 31 2014 at 7:00pm
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lilyrose, Prayers that it is all clear. Take the time to decide, with all the information out there it is too big of a decision to be done quickly. You have to feel comfortable and confident in your choice. Natalie ------------- TNBC stage1 size 1.8, grade3 no nodes 4/11 Lumpectomy 5/11 4cycles DD A/C 4cycles DD Taxol. Double Mastectomy 12/11 BRCA all neg |
Posted By: kmwhope
Date Posted: Apr 02 2014 at 12:05am
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Hi There, I was newly diagnosed with tnbc,stage 1a,grade 3,had lumpectomy and clear margins,clear nodes. I will have genetic testing later this month. So I went to my chemo dr for first time yesterday, he recommends that I do AC X4 every 2 weeks then Taxol x12 weekly. He says that is my best chance to beat this and I will also have Radiation after chemo. I feel very anxious about the treatments but I know I need to do it. I read so many different side effects from ladies on here but I guess I' ll just have to see how I react to it. Does this seem to be an aggressive aproach to my cancer or the standard they use? From what I read I will loose my hair about 10 days after treatment..is that about the norm?? Thanks for your comments ..I'm new at this..Kathy |
Posted By: 123Donna
Date Posted: Apr 02 2014 at 8:11am
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Welcome Kathy, The chemo they are recommending is the most common standard of care. While side effects are common and all are possible, you may not experience all of them. A good resource for understanding each chemo is www.chemocare.com Hair loss usually appears around the 14th/15th day. You'll know when it begins to happen as your scalp will feel funny, almost achy a day or two before the hair starts to fall out. You'll lose most hair on your body. Sometimes the eyelashes are the last to go. Mine fell out after treatment ended, but grew back quickly. Donna ------------- DX IDC TNBC 6/09 age 49, Stage 1,Grade 3, 1.5cm,0/5Nodes,KI-67 48%,BRCA-,6/09bi-mx, recon, T/C X4(9/09) 11/10 Recur IM node, Gem,Carb,Iniparib 12/10,MRI NED 2/11,IMRT Radsx40,CT NED11/13,MRI NED3/15 |
Posted By: Natalie
Date Posted: Apr 02 2014 at 8:13am
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km, It seems you are having the common treatment. Feeling anxious I am sure you know is very normal. Just remember to bring any and all symptoms, and concerns to the NP or doctors attention. A lot of medications are outthere for everything fron nausea to anxiety & pain. On the loss of hair that seems about right, it grows back  I did bandanas, my choice. Didn't like the wig idea. I saw a few women with the wig just just off a bit and felt like straigtening it for them. Plus my scalp remained (still is to some degree) sensitive and the isdea of a wig didn't feel good. Keep us posted, bring any and all to the forums. Natalie
------------- TNBC stage1 size 1.8, grade3 no nodes 4/11 Lumpectomy 5/11 4cycles DD A/C 4cycles DD Taxol. Double Mastectomy 12/11 BRCA all neg |
Posted By: nancykind
Date Posted: Apr 02 2014 at 10:38pm
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on day 11 my scalp started to itch. i had very long hair and had a plan to braid, cut and keep and stuck to it. it was a tough day and i thank my sister for staying on the phone with me the whole time. my eyelashes were the last to go and they, and my eyebrows, kept falling out in the weeks after chemo ended, which was disconcerting. i was down to 6 eyelashes, then 3, then 1 then none. the following week i was getting reiki done and i heard her say "i see eyelashes". my eyes flew open, i was so excited! sure enough, tiny tiny little stubby eyelashes. i can't say they're quite as long as they used to be but they used to be so long that they'd smudge my eyeglasses all day long, so it's okay. :) they don't curl right away either, they need a certain length to them before they curl upwards. i didn't mind being bald once the initial adjustment was made. i wore beautiful scarves and big chunky earrings, which for some reason work out to be a flattering combination. i had fun multi color wigs and sometimes i just wore a soft knit hat. there was no shame to what i was going through and honestly, everyone was so kind. i wouldn't do it any differently, looking back. stay positive and know that one day it will all be behind you. you will win. ------------- Lg lump never visible on any films but found 9mm. Lump 1/25/12, DX 1/31@50yrs IIIC/TN/DCIS/INV, Margins Unclr, Ki67 40%,Gr2. MX L 2/24. 3.1cm total. 11/17nodes. AC/T 2xWk,33rads. 12/12 MX R. 9/13 NED! |
Posted By: lilyrose
Date Posted: Apr 03 2014 at 10:47am
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Natalie, I had several tests done this week, including the pet scan and heart function. Tomorrow I see the onc and get results. Then need to decide which chemo I'm doing and when I start. Thanks for your prayers! lilyrose ------------- DX 2/14, age 60, IDC TNBC BRCA- Stage 1,Grade 3, lumpectomy 3/14, 2cm, 0/4 nodes, clear margins 4/14, A/C DD 4rounds 6/14 Taxol weekly x 12 9/25 Rads 26 + 8 boosts |
Posted By: lilyrose
Date Posted: Apr 03 2014 at 10:53am
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kmwhope, It sounds like our situations are quite similar. My onc also suggested the same chemo treatment. I'm meeting with him again tomorrow to make some decisions. I was also wondering about the hair too, as he told me I would most likely lose it. I can't imagine wearing a wig! Wishing you well in your treatment. Stay strong, lilyrose ------------- DX 2/14, age 60, IDC TNBC BRCA- Stage 1,Grade 3, lumpectomy 3/14, 2cm, 0/4 nodes, clear margins 4/14, A/C DD 4rounds 6/14 Taxol weekly x 12 9/25 Rads 26 + 8 boosts |
Posted By: lilyrose
Date Posted: Apr 03 2014 at 10:58am
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Donna, Thanks for posting that website! I spent hours on it last night, gleaning information. I don't know where you find all this information, but it has been SO much help to me! Thank you for all you do! Bless you, lilyrose ------------- DX 2/14, age 60, IDC TNBC BRCA- Stage 1,Grade 3, lumpectomy 3/14, 2cm, 0/4 nodes, clear margins 4/14, A/C DD 4rounds 6/14 Taxol weekly x 12 9/25 Rads 26 + 8 boosts |
Posted By: lilyrose
Date Posted: Apr 26 2014 at 10:38am
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Hi all, I haven't been on here in awhile. I started my chemo and it wiped me out. I felt ok until day three-then felt like I was hit by a truck. I'm feeling better this week, but will be on to round two on Wednesday. NOT looking forward to that! The side effect I was most worried about, bone pain from the Neulasta, never came. I have felt a strange heaviness in my legs, but I guess the Claritin did it's job. I am now enjoying the lovely sensation of tingling scalp. :) So am expecting hair loss any day. I have no desire to eat, but make myself eat frequent small meals. I am just wondering if this is normal and will I have no appetite until chemo is over? I hope all of you are feeling well and wishing you all good health! Hugs to all, lilyrose ------------- DX 2/14, age 60, IDC TNBC BRCA- Stage 1,Grade 3, lumpectomy 3/14, 2cm, 0/4 nodes, clear margins 4/14, A/C DD 4rounds 6/14 Taxol weekly x 12 9/25 Rads 26 + 8 boosts |
Posted By: sweetjam
Date Posted: Apr 27 2014 at 10:34am
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Hi There, I noticed your are in AZ. I am in AZ too. I just finished round 4 of Carboplatin/pacataxil. I have a found a really good alternative treatment for what I call the "chemo coma" I had the best week after receiving this treatment. I still felt fatigued but not wiped out. The treatment is called tennant bilmodulator therapy. Dr. Chander at Naturopathic Specialists in Scottsdale did it. It was the only thing I changed between rounds and I found a remarkable difference in the recovery. This was worth every penny it cost. ------------- DX 1/17/14 TN IDC, Stage 1 Grade 2, 1.4cm, Age 50, BRCA -, Started Chemo 2/10 C/T, every 3 weeks. Last Chemo 5/23/14. Double Mastectomy 6/23 3/4 nodes all negative. 6/23 final path tumor ER+, PR+, |
Posted By: MomMom44
Date Posted: Apr 29 2014 at 3:35pm
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Sweetjam - what is the "chemo coma?" Would love to know more! Lilyrose - You and I have an almost identical TNBC profile. I just made my first post re losing my big toenail and asking for tips on how to deal with it. The treatment plan recommended as best by my oncologist was the most aggressive of the ones presented to you - 4 rounds of A/C every other week, 12 weekly rounds of Taxol, followed by 6 1/2 weeks of radiation. I will begin my weekly Taxol this week. My Taxol was delayed one week to give my toenail, skin and mouth a time to heal - issues that arose about a week after receiving my last A/C. My oncologist was considering adding Carboplatin to the weekly Taxol, but nixed that idea, as it has not been proven for Stage 1 TNBC at this time. Until then I thought I had sailed through the "heavy duty" stuff without any serious issues. The issues I did have are tolerable, and I'm hoping the freezing booties and gloves (ElastoGel) I will wear during Taxol will help prevent further nail loss and also neuropathy. None of it's fun, but it is more doable than you think. Best of luck with your treatment. What did you decide to do?
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Posted By: sweetjam
Date Posted: Apr 29 2014 at 6:04pm
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chemo coma is what i refer to that whole week after i get chemo on Monday. feel ok till noon on wednesday then severe fatigue sets in and i don't get off the couch or stay in bed and sleep all day. ------------- DX 1/17/14 TN IDC, Stage 1 Grade 2, 1.4cm, Age 50, BRCA -, Started Chemo 2/10 C/T, every 3 weeks. Last Chemo 5/23/14. Double Mastectomy 6/23 3/4 nodes all negative. 6/23 final path tumor ER+, PR+, |
Posted By: kmwhope
Date Posted: Apr 29 2014 at 6:30pm
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Sweetjam you and I are almost on the same track I was diagnosed in Feb stage 1a grade 3 1.5 and brac-..just got my second ac yesterday..I have 2 more and then 12 taxol, I understand the chemo coma, I feel pretty good on Tues and then Wed and Thurs not so good..but I did rebound by Friday pretty well ..hope I do this time too...good luck with your journey...Kathy |
Posted By: lilyrose
Date Posted: Apr 29 2014 at 6:38pm
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Sweetjam - It sounds like you found a good solution to your chemo coma. Where in Scottsdale do you get your treatment? It takes me about an hour and a half to get to Scottsdale from where I live. If it's North Scottsdale - even longer. But if I continue to have issues I may try it. Thanks! ------------- DX 2/14, age 60, IDC TNBC BRCA- Stage 1,Grade 3, lumpectomy 3/14, 2cm, 0/4 nodes, clear margins 4/14, A/C DD 4rounds 6/14 Taxol weekly x 12 9/25 Rads 26 + 8 boosts |
Posted By: lilyrose
Date Posted: Apr 29 2014 at 6:55pm
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Hi MomMom! I did end up going with the 4 rounds DD A/C, that will be followed by 12 weeks of Taxol. Then they told me 7 weeks of rads. I've only had my first infusion. Tomorrow is round two. I'm hoping my treatment won't be postponed though. I developed phlebitis in the arm that received the chemo, plus I have developed a UTI. So I am now on antibiotics for that. I can't believe I got a UTI with as much water as I have been drinking. But I have always been susceptible to them. My MO talked to me about the Carboplatin also. But he said we will take a wait and see approach right now. He just wants to get me through the A/C first. That is awful about your toenail! I will have to go and find your post about it. One of the questions I asked my MO in the beginning was about toe and fingernail loss. I started 'shedding' today. Every time I scratch my tingling scalp, I end up with a bunch of hair in my hand. My hair is short, but I am considering having my friend buzz it off tomorrow - if there's any left! :) Have you lost your appetite? I have zero desire to eat. And sadly, my most favorite thing in the world-chocolate. Can't even LOOK at it. I have lost a few pounds though. I guess that's my silver lining? Wishing you well as you move on to the Taxol. Let me know how well you tolerate it. Hugs, lilyrose ------------- DX 2/14, age 60, IDC TNBC BRCA- Stage 1,Grade 3, lumpectomy 3/14, 2cm, 0/4 nodes, clear margins 4/14, A/C DD 4rounds 6/14 Taxol weekly x 12 9/25 Rads 26 + 8 boosts |
Posted By: kmwhope
Date Posted: Apr 30 2014 at 11:16am
| So just buzzed the hair it was inevitable so it seemed the better idea,any ladies have suggestions my head feels a little chapped anything good to put on it a little sore too.. |
Posted By: MomMom44
Date Posted: Apr 30 2014 at 2:58pm
| Sweetjam & ...hope. Now I get chemo coma:-).. Although I have felt more fatigued than before, one thing that has really helped me is to exercise every day. It sounds counterintuitive, but I've been told by my oncologist and have heard from others that exercise can give you more energy and help you get through with fewer side effects. Although I'm 67, I have been a daily exerciser for most of my adult life, so maybe it was a little easier for me. And I'm certainly no where near the level of intensity I was pre-chemo, but I manage to go to the gym, do upper and lower body weights, the elliptical and most weeks take my pilates reformer and yoga classes. If it's a few days after chemo and I don't feel like going to the gym, I get on the treadmill at home and maybe pop in a lower level yoga DVD. But whatever you can do will most likely serve you well. Best of luck for the remainder of your treatment. |
Posted By: MomMom44
Date Posted: Apr 30 2014 at 3:09pm
| Hi Lily Rose, Just saw your response that you decided to go with the most aggressive of the options - same as me. I feel like I will have done everything I could to prevent it from coming back and that there was no other option for me but to treat it aggressively. Regarding your appetite...I seem to eat a lot (bowl of vanilla ice cream every night), but I'm down about 5 lbs., and I really didn't need to loose any weight. While on chemo, food just doesn't taste the same...things you may have loved may taste "off" and unappealing now. Taxol is supposed to bring on the "tinny taste" so I'll soon learn about that, but the A/C was a challenge to find anything that would taste good. Sometimes my husband (an excellent cook) would hit the bullseye, and other times no matter how much I used to love it, it would taste off. You have to experiment because there are some things that are still tasty which varies from person to person. One thing that is a big hit are morning smoothies, made with frozen fruit, fresh apples, oranges, grapes, scoop of vanilla whey powder, almond milk and few big handfuls of kale (you don't even taste the kale, the fruit overpowers and makes it taste sweet). The Ninja works great! Good luck in finding food that will tempt your appetite. |
Posted By: Lillie
Date Posted: Apr 30 2014 at 4:21pm
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Hi lilyrose, I assume that you do not have a port. You mentioned getting phlebitis in your arm after your infusion. I am just wondering why you don't have a port? Your preference or the Dr.'s recommendation?? Hurry and get well from the UTI. Good luck and God Bless, Lillie ------------- Dx 6/06 age 65,IDC-TNBC Stage IIb,Gr3,2cm,BRCA- 6/06 L/Mast/w/SNB,1of3 Nodes+ 6/06 Axl. 9 nodes- 8/8 thru 11/15 Chemo (Clin-Trial) DD A/Cx4 -- DD taxol+gemzar x4 No Rads. No RECON - 11/2018-12 yrs NED |
Posted By: lilyrose
Date Posted: Apr 30 2014 at 11:11pm
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Hi Lillie! Yes, I do have a port. They tried to get a blood drawback on it, but they couldn't. Three nurses tied everything. No luck. They went and spoke to my MO and he didn't want me to delay treatment so he had them just do an IV. It wasn't a fun day. :) Last week I went and had my port tested. They got it working! So today I had my chemo via my port. It was SO much easier. Especially the Adriamycin push. So now I'm halfway through this course of chemo. Then on to Taxol. Sat next to a woman who is on my same treatment, but she is almost finished with Taxol. She was a wealth of information! It is so good to talk to people who are further along in this journey. I'm already feeling a bit better on the antibiotics. Thank you so much for asking after me. I am sure this has been a difficult week for you. I was sad to hear of your SIL's passing. Hugs and prayers, lilyrose ------------- DX 2/14, age 60, IDC TNBC BRCA- Stage 1,Grade 3, lumpectomy 3/14, 2cm, 0/4 nodes, clear margins 4/14, A/C DD 4rounds 6/14 Taxol weekly x 12 9/25 Rads 26 + 8 boosts |
Posted By: lilyrose
Date Posted: Apr 30 2014 at 11:22pm
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MomMom, Wow! You rock! I am lucky to have enough energy to take a walk every day. But I have two dogs that insist on it. :) I needed to lose weight anyway, I was pleasantly surprised that I was down 8 lbs. on the scale at the Onc's today! I eat a lot of scrambled eggs and greek yogurt right now...it's what tastes good to me. I do want to start making smoothies again. I bought some coconut oil and flax seed to add to my fruit. I like kale in a smoothie too! I also love pineapple and mango. I'm sure if I started eating ice cream at night I would gain the weight back. I hope you don't have any more awful SE's while you are on the Taxol! Good luck with your poor toenails. Hugs, lilyrose ------------- DX 2/14, age 60, IDC TNBC BRCA- Stage 1,Grade 3, lumpectomy 3/14, 2cm, 0/4 nodes, clear margins 4/14, A/C DD 4rounds 6/14 Taxol weekly x 12 9/25 Rads 26 + 8 boosts |
Posted By: spring
Date Posted: May 10 2014 at 3:19pm
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Hello Lillie rose and those who participated inthis forum, Thx so much for sharing you cares and concerns. I am also dx w/ TNBC (ER5%) on Apr 9, stage 1a, <1cm tumor, grade 2, lumpectomy with negative nodes and no brac mutation. I will meet my MO first time on Monday. My surgeon prompted me possible chemo. Radiation will be for sure. My concern is how I will be able to tolerate chemo since I had a kidney transplant and am currently on immunosuppressants. My kidney is working very well and I do not have any side effects from the transplant meds, having normal life. If anyone of you know or have similar med backgrounds and on chemo treatment, I would love to hear the experience. I find this forum very informative. Thx much for your sincere hearts in sharing here... God bless, Spring |
Posted By: sweetjam
Date Posted: May 10 2014 at 4:20pm
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Scottsdale naturapathic physicians right across from Scottsdale Osborn. Dr Chandra does the energy work. Dr Rubin is the onc. ------------- DX 1/17/14 TN IDC, Stage 1 Grade 2, 1.4cm, Age 50, BRCA -, Started Chemo 2/10 C/T, every 3 weeks. Last Chemo 5/23/14. Double Mastectomy 6/23 3/4 nodes all negative. 6/23 final path tumor ER+, PR+, |
Posted By: Lillie
Date Posted: May 10 2014 at 4:22pm
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Hi Spring, Welcome to the Support Group that nobody wants to join. I am sorry you have a reason for being here, but glad that the site is proving beneficial to you. To get a quicker answer to your question about chemo and immunosuppressants, you might want to start a new message. Everyone will see it right away and you probably will get some good feed back to your question. Good Luck and God Bless, Lillie ------------- Dx 6/06 age 65,IDC-TNBC Stage IIb,Gr3,2cm,BRCA- 6/06 L/Mast/w/SNB,1of3 Nodes+ 6/06 Axl. 9 nodes- 8/8 thru 11/15 Chemo (Clin-Trial) DD A/Cx4 -- DD taxol+gemzar x4 No Rads. No RECON - 11/2018-12 yrs NED |
Posted By: sweetjam
Date Posted: May 10 2014 at 4:24pm
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Mom mom. Totally agree with the smoothies. That's my go to morning meal starting two days after chemo. ------------- DX 1/17/14 TN IDC, Stage 1 Grade 2, 1.4cm, Age 50, BRCA -, Started Chemo 2/10 C/T, every 3 weeks. Last Chemo 5/23/14. Double Mastectomy 6/23 3/4 nodes all negative. 6/23 final path tumor ER+, PR+, |
Posted By: MomMom44
Date Posted: May 10 2014 at 5:08pm
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Lilyrose & Sweetjam, Can't beat those smoothies - tasty, cold and good for you - filled with nutrients! Lilyrose - update on the Taxol now that I have 2 under my belt (only 10 more to go:-). Don't know what's coming down the road, but for right now, I am very pleasantly surprised at how good I feel! By butt isn't as dragging as it was on the AC. I still did everything on AC, but much more slowly. Just a few days after my first Taxol, felt well enough for my husband and I to go to our beach rental place for 3 nights! I definitely have lots more energy. And my taste buds are not totally off as they were on the AC. I've gained back 3 of the 5 lbs I'd lost on AC. I've heard that some develop a tinny taste in the mouth on Taxol, but so far no evidence of it. Fingers crossed this keeps up! I've also worn my frozen Elastogel booties and gloves during the Taxol treatment to try and prevent more lost nails and hopefully lessen the chance of neuropathy. I'm a little chilly, but just have my blanket on and have tolerated it just fine for the hour the Taxol is being administered. Spring - Best to you in your treatment and in finding the answers to your specific questions. ------------- DX TNBC 1/14; age 66; Stage 1; Grade 2; 1.2 cm; 0/2 nodes; lumpectomy; BRAC Neg; 4 DD AC; Completed 12 weekly Taxol July 2014; Radiation August 2014 |
Posted By: spring
Date Posted: May 10 2014 at 6:16pm
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Dear Lillie, thank you for your suggestion. I just started a new topic on my specific question. I am very blessed to see this site and forums and it allows me to connect with those who are in with similar journey that i am and will be going through. Thank you for your time and dedication in contributing this site... Spring |
Posted By: momtothree
Date Posted: May 10 2014 at 6:41pm
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Hello there... I am supposed to start Taxol treatments in a few weeks but haven't had a 2nd opinion. I've been reading these posts and feel so much better already. Diagnosed 4/4/14. Drs. wanted neoadjuvant treatment but I went with the lumpectomy (clear margins / nodes) but my k167 is 90 which is very high. As soon as my incision and port installation heal they want to start chemo. Because I have other health issues my onc. decided to do the weekly Taxol first which I see is rare. Most posts have the DD AC first. I live in So Fl and most of the drs who are known for treating TNBC aren't close but I'm thinking maybe I should travel to NY for a quick consultation or somewhere similar (No. Carolina, etc) On the positive side, even though my chemo seems to be switched from most of you, the regimen is similar. I'm grateful for this forum already and I only signed on today ! momtothree (all of my reason to fight like crazy)
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Posted By: Lillie
Date Posted: May 10 2014 at 10:28pm
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Dear momtothree, Welcome to this Group that nobody likes, but we all love each other. Actually, getting taxol first has changed since I got treatment in 2006. There has been a lot of publicity about it being the better way to administer chemo. Taxol first, followed by AC. I became anxious after the publicity because I had taxol after AC. Of course it doesn't take a lot to make us anxious about "Things" when we have TNBC. I know that is seems like everybody gets AC and then taxol. Don't get anxious, as this is a very acceptable order to get your chemo. Good Luck and God Bless, Lillie ------------- Dx 6/06 age 65,IDC-TNBC Stage IIb,Gr3,2cm,BRCA- 6/06 L/Mast/w/SNB,1of3 Nodes+ 6/06 Axl. 9 nodes- 8/8 thru 11/15 Chemo (Clin-Trial) DD A/Cx4 -- DD taxol+gemzar x4 No Rads. No RECON - 11/2018-12 yrs NED |
Posted By: momtothree
Date Posted: May 10 2014 at 11:27pm
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Thank you Lillie for the welcome and information which is comforting as I want my dr. to be right. THe hard part now is deciding on final dr / plan quickly because the waiting is very difficult. Side effects of either drug have me anxious so the sooner I start the better. The issue of my surgery healing is a factor in the timing too. Lillie - did you ice your hands and feet during taxol treatment? It was also suggested to bring ice chips to stop mouth sores. And for home Claritin and L glusamine. Baking soda mouthwash. Thermometers. What do you think? I feel like i'm going on a chemo scavenger hunt! Enjoy your mother's day tomorrow :) I will have to try and add my DX statement at the bottom of my messages. I do read everyone elses. It is interesting to see what they had and the treatment for it.
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Posted By: Jenneri
Date Posted: May 11 2014 at 5:25pm
| Hi all, Happy Mother's Day! Diagnosis 12/29/13 TNIBC, 1.5 cm, 3/3, 1 pos node. BRCA-, Pet scan clear except for those 2 sites. I finished 12 weekly treatments of taxol on 4/22 and started AC 4/29. Came thru Taxol fairly well, still have my hair, although thin. The AC has been tougher, but I only have 3 more of those every other week! I now have to start thinking about my surgery/radiation options. They range from a lumpectomy and sentinel node removal followed by radiation to a double mastectomy and no radiation. I know the TNBC is a stinker and likes to return, so I'm wondering your thoughts about just eliminating the breast tissue completely. My surgeon leans toward the lumpectomy but wouldn't rule out dbl mast as an option. I should also add that I am 66 and in good health otherwise. Thanks. Jen |
Posted By: Lillie
Date Posted: May 11 2014 at 8:39pm
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Dear momtothree, I did not ice my hands and feet during taxol. I didn't find the TNBC site until 2009, so my knowledge about these kinds of things was very limited. Good luck with your journey and keep us posted. God Bless, Lillie ------------- Dx 6/06 age 65,IDC-TNBC Stage IIb,Gr3,2cm,BRCA- 6/06 L/Mast/w/SNB,1of3 Nodes+ 6/06 Axl. 9 nodes- 8/8 thru 11/15 Chemo (Clin-Trial) DD A/Cx4 -- DD taxol+gemzar x4 No Rads. No RECON - 11/2018-12 yrs NED |
Posted By: sweetjam
Date Posted: May 11 2014 at 8:44pm
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Jenneri I'm opting for a double mastectomy with nipple and skin saving immediate reconstruction surgery. My surgical onc says I'm a good candidate for a lumpectomy but I never want to do this again in the same breast or a different breast. That is what has fueled my decision. That and the fact that it reoccurs at an alarming rate. ------------- DX 1/17/14 TN IDC, Stage 1 Grade 2, 1.4cm, Age 50, BRCA -, Started Chemo 2/10 C/T, every 3 weeks. Last Chemo 5/23/14. Double Mastectomy 6/23 3/4 nodes all negative. 6/23 final path tumor ER+, PR+, |
Posted By: momtothree
Date Posted: May 11 2014 at 8:50pm
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Dear Lillie, You are so kind to answer. I guess I'll ask my onc. about the mitts. I'm not as concerned about the cold cap/ losing hair but neuropathy is scary. You and others are wonderful role models continuing to provide support, info and hope to those of us just starting this journey. Thanks again and Happy Mother's Day to you :) momtothree
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