It's 5am and I have my first chemo in 4 hours. I haven't slept at all tonight. I'm taking 2 tabs of Dexamethasone twice a day for three days and the nurse told me I wouldn't sleep. I haven't benefited from the hyper-clean your whole house she promised, but certainly from insominia.

So off I go in a few hours. I'm not too nervous, just want to get on with it. Hope the next few months aren't so bad.
Wish me luck!
Julie

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Hi Julie,
My name is Shannon Pearson and I am a Clinical Specialist in the Breast Site Group at PMH. I saw your email and smiled when I read

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...sorry, I didn't finish my first post....as I was saying I smiled when I saw your comment about the dex, pretty universal side effect.
I just wanted to ask how your chemo went?

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The day of the chemo I felt okay, but it's been downhill since then. I didn't imagine it would be like this. I feel miserable and completely defeated. This is my 5th day...when will it start to lighten up?

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hi julie, remember chemo kills the good and bad stuff in our bodies. as to when it gets better - i say when you don't have to take chemo anymore:) i was throwing up from the first week of treatment to months after i finished. just take it a day at a time and remember you have to get from "here" to "there" (from cancer to cancer free).

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Oh, chickie, thank you for your hugs and words! I do still feel like I'm fighting it - i still want to be in charge. I've basically slept for the last 6 days - was that your experience? It's so depressing.
You are half way through -wow, there is light at the end of the tunnel.
I am going to check out therapeutic touch, accupuncture and massage. I think it would be heavenly if someone would rub my soreness away.
((HUGS))
Julie

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Hi everyone - I don't usually post notes but happened to come across this thread. Hang in there... it does get a bit better. I'm on the home stretch now and will do 6 of 6 chemo next month. don't give up... try Theraputic Touch .. it really helps to calm. think positive.
Angela M.

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Hey Julie I have been thinking of you! I know it's hard. I am finally half way done and each treatment is a little different, and a little easier. Lots of tears laughs and whatever gets you through. Let go of your need to control it. I found that once I surrendered into it then it was easier taking one day at a time. I too find it very hard not to have my life back but with the love and support people give you and a whole lot of faith.. I am getting there. you will too. i can tell how tough you are thats why we keep fighting so hard. ~~~ Oh an Dex...I am now sleeping after the first treatment. I used to have insomnia. Have you tried Theraputic Touch it really calms me. Sometimes I have it done in the hospital the day of treatment. One day or one minute at a time! :)
(((HUGS)))
Chickie

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There are free services for all that. Did you know that? There is soooo much support take it let your guard down and let people in. You will acknowledge a whole new side of you!! Glad you feel better. Sleep is the best way for your body to heal. Your health and taking care of you is your new job. I know it''s hard with kids but that's where you lean on all your supports when you are down. Then when yyou are up you can be more you. That doesn't mean you hide your anger or sadness. Just have your pity party and then move on to the next thing!:O)
ox Chickie!

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Hi Julie How are you doing??
I am on # 8 now 4 more to go and today I was very emotional. They gave me something called ativan....oooo that was the ticket. It helps clam me and I SLEEP!!! Just something to discuss with your DR if you are interested.
Hope you are well.
Hugs
Chickie

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