Chemotherapy started Cycle 1 week 2

[Ollie13]

Hi as you know I said I would update weekly in the hope to help others on the same journey. So week 2 has come and gone the thrush cleared up with medication took about a week. This week I have been extremely tired some days the tiredness engulfed me even after doing simple tasks. I went along with it and rested when I needed to. Have slept a lot this week. Have had a few bouts if nausea but tried eating a plain biscuit which worked so didn't need the anti sickness tablets. Also have had a few nose bleeds and headaches.

I still have very mixed up emotions regarding this therapy and worried this is now my 3rd type of treatment for my cancer and worried it may not work. However I'm taking each day as it come. One more week then cycle 2.

[Bebe55]

Hi Ollie I completely understand your concern and thank you so much for posting the experience of your journey. I started on my own unwanted journey with LC 3mths ago. I don't think anyone can completely understand how we feel. If it hadn't been for the likes of The Roy Castle, the go2 Foundation and EGFR positive + group I don't know how I would have navigated my emotions. No one is promised tomorrow as we now know with our diagnosis we stare our own mortality in the face, but each treatment gives us hope. Keep strong, positive and keep posting x

[Ollie13 in reply to Bebe55]

Thank you Bebe55 it's definitely one Hell of a journey❤❤❤❤

[sassassas]

Hi Ollie13 Good to hear from you and so lovely of you to take time to post to help others.

I don't know if you have ever considered intermittent fasting? There is a good body of research now about how it may help reduce the side effects of chemo - the theory being that the body shuts down its cells as a protective mechanism when there is no food around (sounds sensible doesn't it - it signals to normal cells to stop growing because its not a good time when energy is scarce). Cancer cells can't do this, so your body's cells get protected. There's a good article on verywellhealth or look up various podcasts that Dr Jason Fung has done. He's published a book called the Cancer Code which looks at the metabolic aspects of cancer cell growth and he's well respected and definitely not a quack.

My personal experience (I don't have cancer) is only from intermittent fasting (the 5:2 diet) to keep my weight at a healthy level and I'm a big fan. My husband isn't on chemo at the moment but has just started IF because there is some evidence that the effect on body glucose levels can be helpful in controlling cancer, so two potential benefits from it. He does it on the 8/16 hour basis, so doesn't eat between 8pm at night and at least 12 noon the next day. He has said that if he went back on chemo, he would definitely fast. Anyway, hope that might be helpful to you.

Look forward to your update next week - I hope you have a good week.

Sarah x

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Hi,

Thanks again for the update. It’s good to hear the thrush has cleared up. You are doing the right resting and paying attention to what your body is telling you.

It’s perfectly normal to have mixed emotions about your treatment. On our website there are some very inspirational stories from others who have experienced what you are going through. Some good advice is given on being positive about getting through the treatment. roycastle.org/category/pati...

Look after yourself, if you would like to speak to one of the helpline nurses don’t hesitate to call us. We are available from 9.00-5.00-m Monday-Thursday and from 9.00am-4.00pm on Fridays.

Kind regards,

All on the' Ask the nurse' helpline support team.