tdash wrote:Found out recently that my cancer has recurred after being NED for 4 years. Last time around (at age 35) I had relatively straightforward colon resection (sigmoid colon) and 12 rounds of FOLFOX. This time around, because of location, doctors have recommended what I understand to be the protocol for rectal cancer: 5.5 weeks radiation + round the clock 5FU pump, followed by surgery to remove tumor and more colon/rectum (and potentially uterus), likely followed by chemo. I have learned the basics about side effects for the radiation and reasons why my onc is recommending 5FU vs Xeloda. However, I am hoping to learn more about experiences from people who did this after having previously gone through surgery and chemo and making it to remission. Does this potentially make one more susceptible to side effects? With the chemo last time, I made it 9 rounds w/the oxaliplatin but overall was wiped out and dealt with neuropathy, hand/foot syndrome, and taste issues. And, any overall advice for a newbie to chemorad (i.e. energy level, were you able to work, did you get skin irritation, did you experience gynecological issues?)? Thank you!
tdash wrote:Found out recently that my cancer has recurred after being NED for 4 years. Last time around (at age 35) I had relatively straightforward colon resection (sigmoid colon) and 12 rounds of FOLFOX. This time around, because of location, doctors have recommended what I understand to be the protocol for rectal cancer: 5.5 weeks radiation + round the clock 5FU pump, followed by surgery to remove tumor and more colon/rectum (and potentially uterus), likely followed by chemo.
tdash wrote:Thank you. This info about DFCI and MGH definitely helps me feel better about how things turned out with regard to the treatment plan. My doc has since recommended I try the Xeloda during chemorad (start tomorrow); if I can't tolerate it then will switch to 5FU. I got my port back in this past week, and it's still tugging in ways I don't quite remember the last time around. Has me a little nervous that it will be this uncomfortable the whole time. I'm reminding myself that having an IV catheter at the base of one's neck will understandably take some getting used to.
I'm also planning on working as long as it makes sense for me....The daily commute into DFCI is a pain, but hey I'll take it.
Added some more info to my signature....still figuring out best practices for this forum:)
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