menreeq wrote:Just registered with Colon Club today, I'm a newbie. But I'm already thankful for the info I've gleaned from this site.
I am a week post-op from lap sigmoid colectomy with final Path T3N0M0, Stage IIA. I am planning for adjuvant chemotherapy with Xeloda monotherapy because that 3-4% benefit is worth it to me. But I am trying to figure out how to go back to work after my six weeks of postop leave. My work involves lots of sitting down all day and thousands of mouse clicks and scrolls, as well as requires the ability to concentrate for hours on end. My doctors say that I'll be able to go back to work and that Xeloda is easy enough that it won't be an issue. A mentor who worked while on adjuvant chemo for low rectal CA told me it was definitely doable, but not easy (however he was not on Xeloda monotherapy). I am worried about the side effects of fatigue, HFS, and diarrhea. I think I can deal with those symptoms for maybe 8 hours in a day, but a 12-hour day would be rough. Having to take frequent bathroom breaks would be an issue. Also, I work in a hospital and would be concerned about exposure to infection.
For those of you who have been on Xeloda monotherapy, what advice would you give about working during the six months of adjuvant therapy? I know each person will react differently, but if I can get enough responses, maybe I can have a plan for returning to work. For example, perhaps I could return part-time, working half days. Or is it better to work normally for the first week, and then take week 2 off, then back to normal during the off week?
I thank you in advance for sharing your experiences.
menreeq wrote:An update and request for advice:
So, after the postop period, I returned to work part time. I'm in the middle of cycle 2, and I'm starting to feel tenderness mainly at the pressure points of my feet (ball and heel). Minimally red. No cracking apart from what was already there. No peeling. Using Udderly Smooth cream liberally. Onc said to reduce dose by 25% if I am having difficulty walking. I walk a little slower and feel every step. It's easier with socks and sneakers than sandals. I think I can tough it out a little, but maybe I shouldn't even try to. Anyone have HFS start like this? Any insight? Any advice on shoes for work??? I can't tolerate my platforms or heels anymore.
Also, did anyone also get these "spots" on palms and soles? Like brown spots of varying size and shape, flat and painless. I've read a few people get hyperpigmented macules, particularly if brown skinned, and that it is unclear if this is a precursor to HFS.
Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!
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