Jan 5, 2011

Another soul in the stew pot! But, I get to help...

A friend of mine asked me for some info for a friend of hers who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. I have to tell you that, while I am so very glad that I have come out on the other side, I do really like passing on what I learned. Feels like the whole experience had some greater meaning...

Hi K____ -


The best source of info about any side effects from the chemo is from the nurses in the Infusion Center - the nurses in the unit where she will get her chemo. They see everything - as opposed to the docs - and are the best people to talk to about chemo. By now, maybe your friend has had a tour of the place and can get in touch with them. Also, a good thing to remember is that we are the benefactors of many years experience in chemo treatment. Nowadays, they give you steroids and anti emetics that are very effective in preventing the most dramatic side effects. For most people, the days of serious vomiting and weight loss from chemo are over. They have also discovered that an equally effective dose can be much lower. For example, I received less than half the milligrams of Adriamycin (the Red Devil) that patients did just a few years ago so that alone lowers the side effects. Thanks to all our sisters with breast cancer who have gone before us! Chemo is no picnic and I feel for your friend. I'm so glad to be on the other side of it! Please send her my love and encouragement. She might want to check out my blog at janesposse.blogspot.com.