BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR: WENDY’S STORY

It was two years ago when I was 41 that I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I found the lump in my right breast purely by chance whilst washing in the bath. I immediately felt in the same place on my left breast - no lump. I panicked and I cried - literally sobbed. Breast cancer is what happens to someone else, not me. As there is no family history of cancer in my family I thought I was OK. I was wrong. Following a lumpectomy and also having 5 lymph nodes removed under my arm, my surgeon told me that I had a grade 3 invasive ductal carcinoma and that the tumour was oestrogen receptor negative. Although the tumour was aggressive, the good news was that it hadn't spread to my lymph nodes, they were clear. I was referred to Dr Deutsch at the Sussex Cancer Centre for chemo and radiotherapy. Dr Deutsch said without chemo/radio, there was a moderate chance of the cancer returning, but with treatment only a small chance.

I had standard FEC treatment of 6 chemo sessions every 3-4 weeks (dependant on blood tests results being OK prior to chemo). I started my first cycle at the beginning of August and had my last 2 weeks before Christmas.

If I am honest, this part of my cancer treatment terrified me the most. I suppose it is fear of the unknown. When I was told I was to have chemo it was like they were talking about someone else - not me. All my pre-conceptions of chemo were that it was one step away from dying when prior to diagnosis I was feeling well and healthy. I soon found out I was wrong - thank goodness! I was also scared of losing my hair - people would know I was ill - I would look different. I was also worried about the sickness after treatment - however I was never actually sick as they give you anti- sickness drugs.

Also would I put on weight? I actually only put on about 7 pounds and I have since lost that.

What I did to prepare
I was invited to an information session with one of the chemo nurses (also called Wendy). Paul, my husband of 24 years came with me. I was given lots of useful leaflets on my treatment and a list of all the drugs and possible side- effects. She also explained step by step what would happen during the chemo. Basically she told me everything. I was also measured up for a cold cap to hopefully protect my hair. I was also shown the treatment room. I read up as much as I could from the internet (the hospital gives you a list of good sites) and also the leaflets I had been given. I also bought a wig just in case the cold cap didn't work. I also bought a selection of scarves and hats. Prior to chemo I started to visit Laurel for complementary therapy. I was given her name by the Nigel Porter unit. In fact they paid for the first 3 treatments. I felt it was my positive step to help myself through the treatment. On Laurel’s guidance I took vitamin and mineral supplements (C, E & selenium) and a glass of orange juice every day. She taught me guided imagery to help me through the chemo and also deep breathing, which I found really useful.

What happened during the sessions
My blood was checked the day before chemo. I was first fitted into my cold (ice) cap over my head. The first and last 20 minutes are the worst. A needle was inserted into the back of my hand and the drugs were administered by the nurse, one syringe at a time. They do this slowly and will stop at any time to give you a break. The drugs including the anti-sickness, take about 20-25 minutes. Afterwards I would have to sit for a further 1 and a half hours in my cap - the price I paid for vanity!

Some drugs made my sight blurred - although it was temporary and it only happened a couple of times. I also felt a bit sick and dizzy. I seemed to find the treatment got easier with each cycle - less side effects. For the first 3 days after I felt sick and very tired. I just wanted to be at home and do very little.

Day 5 after chemo, I always felt spaced out! It wasn't unpleasant but it was frustrating. I used to call it my brainless day. Basically for a week after chemo I was off work. I would return to work for weeks 2 and 3. (my employers were very flexible) I felt weak and breathless, no energy and I tired easily. However by the time I had my next cycle I was feeling OK. I did get tearful - but I felt better after a good cry.

Memorable moments

How I felt at the end of the treatment
I felt relieved once I had had the last chemo. To me it was the end of another stage. Next step radiotherapy. My family and friends sent flowers (throughout my treatment I received so many flowers I could have opened my own florist shop!) and were very upbeat. I was glad that part was over but was physically and emotionally drained.

End thoughts
" Battling" or "fighting" cancer are words often used to describe the process of going through cancer treatment. I do not like to use these words. The last 2 years have not been a battle or a fight. I have taken each stage, step-by-step, one day at a time. After all it is a long process. Don’t fight it - accept it - be positive - that doesn’t mean be brave and don’t cry. I have done a lot of crying and I have laughed also.

 

 

 

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