Chemo delay of two weeks

[Temporarynameforthisone]

I’m receiving chemo every three weeks for breast cancer, I’m halfway through and so pleased to reach the halfway mark, 3 cycles done 3 to go. But my fourth has been delayed by two weeks so far because my white cell count is below 1.5. I’ve been given extra injections in a bid to get my level above 1.5and I’m hoping it’s worked. I had an awful cough virus for a week so I wasn’t surprised when I was delayed by one week but a bit freaked out to be delayed for a second week.

Has anyone else been delayed by two weeks or more?

Yes. The first time it happened was very worrying for me. I maintained a loq count throughout my treatment habing to have injections to boost white cells routinely. My treatment was often delayed. Its worrying and frustrating but try not to worry. Its better than you being very ill. It just delays treatment but it still works 💪

Maddy70
Thank you SO much for replying and for being SO reassuring 😊 I just want this chemo over and done with.

Hi, I used to be an oncology nurse and this was really common (but frustrating)
is it lenograstim you have been given? It can make you feel a bit rough - bone pain, flu like symptoms etc
the reason we say to wait two weeks is due to the life cycle of a white cell - they recover every 5 days or so

When I was having treatment I think maybe two or even three of my cycles were pushed back as my bloods weren't good enough to go ahead. I know it's frustrating but you'll get there.

I have also had to have delays to my chemo treatment, both pre-op IV treatments, and now post op oral route chemo. Recently restarted after a 2 week break due to covid and slight liver issues.

First time I had to take a break I was really worried it would make it less effective, but actually it didn't seem to make any difference. My lump didn't suddenly start growing again, and scans showed it slowly reducing in size.

How are you getting in now @Temporarynameforthisone?

dont worry it’s very common. Happened to DH when he was having chemo for colon cancer and it still worked 😀