Taxol - can anyone answer my question?

[BrownPaperandString]

or is it specific to the individual?

My mum is about to start 3 months of weekly Taxol infusions for breast cancer that has gone to her bone. She is also on herceptin.

She has just stopped the oral chemo, 'xeloda' as her hands and feet had gone black with it and they saw that as a sign that her body is now finding it too toxic plus I don't think it was working any more.

So - after the 3 months, how long is she likely to be chemo free for or do they get you on to the next chemo option straight away? Is it possible to then have Taxol again later or is it a once only chance thing?

Thank you in advance.

I've just finished Taxol as part of my primary BC treatment, so I'm not sure I can answer your question. From my experience of BC treatment it does seem to be very much tailored to the individual so I don't know what they will be planning. Best that your mum talks to her Breast Care Nurse, or her oncologist.

FWIW - Taxol is a very doable chemotherapy. Makes your bones (esp your legs) ache a lot for a few days and makes your nails go a horrible colour but otherwise it is fine.

Sorry forgot to add - I wish your mum the very best of luck with her treatment and her fight.

Brownpaper

I do not have an answer for you, beyond agreeing with Pennies to talk to the BC nurse: don't wait for an appointment, just phone, they are very used to it.

I wish your Mum and you all the best.

Thank you so much for your replies and I'm so sorry that you have gone through this pennies. Cake - I think I saw that you're going through it too but I'm not sure?

It's good to know that Taxol is 'doable' - Pennies - did you lose your hair?

WEll my mostly my hair fell out with the AC stuff that I had before Taxol, and then I had a few too many sherbets one night and shaved the rest off because I just looked like I had mange. I've been sporting stubble since then, so that leads me to believe that the Taxol wouldn't have got rid of it completely. I know of another lady who also still has hers, but then I've also met two who lost the lot on Taxol. It is so hard to predict how each individual will react to it.

FWIW I tried not to focus on the hairloss thing. Obviously it's not ideal, but my wig is great and I've found some great scarves as well. That said - I can't wait for it to grow back. I don't know where you are based but if you're in Herts I can recommend a very good wig shop.