I had 2nd chemo 4th Septmber and had Herceptin at the same time. No problem at all just alot of sitting around. It to about 4 hours in all.

At least now I know what to expect. Again I was fine on the day and ok day after and then started to feel grotty, but this time I was ready for it and paced myself so didn't try and do too much. No rash this time so that must have been a reaction to something else. Just shows you can't blame Taxotere for everything!!! My neck and shoulder blades were sore to touch again for a few days. I also got  a stuffy nose like last time. My hair is still coming out in handfuls, I'm virtually bald on top but interestiingly I still have a fringe and plenty at the sides.

I'm aiming to try and do just 1 thing every day during 2nd week then abit more in the 3rd week. i.e  go for a short walk with the dog or 1 aquarobics session or ironing.

4th Chemo and onwards

Well I'm on my 4th chemo now and starting to know what to expect

• Day 1 chemo day takes about 4 hours by the time they've done everything and got my meds for next time.

• Day 2 I'm usually fine till evening when grottyness starts to hit.

• Day 3 - 5 I struggle to get out of bed and dressed and don't manage much else beyond sleep and daytime T.V

• Day 6 I can think about walking the dog or Aquarobics (gentle excercise and coffee with the girls)

• Day 7 onwards beginning a gradual incease in energy till next time.

If I want to plan to do anything I try to make it the 3rd week when I am at my best.

The main problems apart from grotty 7 days seem to be going to the toilet, I'm managing this with

Movecol but if I don't take them in time (day 1 or 2 )then bowel movements are very painful.  Visit to GP helped to sort this out better than Chemo staff.

I eat what I fancy when I want, cooked by my lovely husband till about day 7. I seem to be putting on weight (about 3 kg) so if I don't feel like eating much I don't, but I'm not cutting down, I eat if I'm hungry. It seems the 'food to avoid' prawns, pate, cream cheese etc, is in case of tummy bugs so just be careful to not get food poisoning from a dodgy takeaway. I'm drinking lots, fresh orange tastes nice but I'm off tea and coffee.

I've found the 'breastcancercare forum' this is a good way to be in contact with other people in the same position. https://forum.breastcancercare.org.uk/