Community Member
2 days agoHi everyone, My name is Joanne and I just joined. I was diagnosed with DCIS estrogen negative in 2023. I had a lumpectomy and did radiation. I continued to have mammograms every 6 months, and all was good until last October when they spotted what they believed was probably fat necrosis from the surgery, so they labeled it "probably benign". I had another mammogram mid April of this year and another ultrasound and again "probably benign ". I felt a good size lump in the same exact area they'd been watching on Mother's Day and it turns out it is a tumor. I really wish a biopsy was done last October but I was told they don't biopsy every suspicious spot. I say bs, I had cancer in this breast less than 2 years prior you should definitely do a biopsy. Anyway, I started chemo on July 16th and I had a horrible 9 or so days, with, pain from the shot they give the day after that heightens your white blood cells, constipation which then lead to diarrhea for almost a week straight, dehydration and I also had a mouth sore and thrush. Oh and a sinus infection! I have my next chemo scheduled for August 10th and I am so afraid to go through it all over again. After 6 treatments of chemo which are every three weeks I have to have a mastectomy then 6 more months of chemo. Thank you for letting me share this. If anyone has had any similar reactions to chemo and can offer any possible help with side effects it would be greatly appreciated. ❤️
Community Member
a day agoManaging chemo side effects can feel overwhelming, especially when facing multiple issues at once like dehydration, digestive problems, and infections. Many patients find it helpful to work closely with their oncology team before the next treatment to create a prevention plan - this might include pre-medications, hydration schedules, mouth care routines, and discussing alternatives for managing white blood cell support. The community here has shared many practical strategies for coping with these challenges, so connecting with others who have walked this path can provide valuable insights and emotional support during this difficult time.
Community Member
a day agoHi Joanne, thank you for opening your heart and sharing your journey. ❤️ Reading your story, we can feel how much courage and strength it has taken to face everything you’ve been through — from diagnosis to surgery, radiation, and now chemotherapy. The side effects you described sound incredibly challenging, and it’s completely natural to feel afraid before the next treatment. Please remember that caring for yourself emotionally is just as important as caring for yourself physically. We hope you have supportive people around you during this journey, and we’re sending you warmth, encouragement, and positive thoughts. May every step forward bring you more strength, comfort, and hope. 🌷 You are stronger than you know, Joanne. Keep going — many people are quietly cheering for you. ❤️
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