I remember distinctly when the oncologist was telling us about the side effects of the chemo drug, he mentioned several times the hand and foot syndrome. I thought I better be safe than sorry so yesterday morning before radiation, I called the oncologist and left a message with his nurse about what is happening to my feet and hands. The nurse called me back and told me that she wanted to see me after my radiation treatment.
When the nurse saw my feet and hands, she said to immediately STOP taking the chemo. She said that my body is telling me that it's had enough and that it can't handle any more. She said that people try to hide this side effect from them but she said I did the right thing by calling her. The nurse said that if I didn't come off the chemo that the side effects would only get worse, with additionally getting blisters in my mouth. She said that I'll probably have more pain in my feet for the next week but then it should get better.
I told her that I feel that deserting the chemo will change the end result. She said not to feel like that at all. I will still get the next 6 days of radiation but that my body is saying it just can't take any more of the drug.
So, part 1 of my 2 part treatment is over. I am grateful that my body waited 5 of the 6 weeks to develop this side effect. It could have happened after just a few days...where would I have been then with options?
5 comments:
Sharon - Congratulations on completing this part of your treatment and for respecting and listening to your body. You made the right call. I really believe that people KNOW what is the right thing for themselves and you have to listen to that voice. When you do - you are on the right path.
Sharon, maybe its your body telling you that the chemo did what it had to and now it is finished. There is a product called Utter Cream. It comes in a tube that is spotted like a cow. My mom used this to ease her painful skin during treatment. It worked very well for her. The finish line is in sight, your almost there!
Love, Michelle McG
I'm so glad to hear that you have completed this portion of your marathon. Chemo, done!
Thinking of you,
Darla
You are almost there dear friend. I truly believe that your body knows its own self and it was sending you a message. I am hoping and praying that your hands and feet heal quickly. Your hands need to create and your feet need to get you back to teaching our most needy and fragile children.
Shar,
When my mother in law was going thru chemo and also radiation she had your similar side effects. She had to stop chemo also, and the doctor told her that even through she stopped the chemo it was still continuing to work on the tumor in her throat. It took awhile for the side effects to stop but the side effects eased up as the days passed. You will be ready to dance at the wedding soon. Remember what Rascal Flats sings, "When one door closes another one opens, and your worries stay small and your dreams stay big." Dream BIG!!!!!
Chemo door is CLOSED!!!!!!! Continue to stay strong.
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