I start chemo on Tuesday. The doctors want me to do both chemo & radiation.

[KaryninMiami]

7. The chemo gave me an acne like rash after the first round

Not to mention mouth sores, migraines, constipation and a host of other wonderful side effects. Most of them, thankfully, are gone now. For the rash (which I had first on my stomach and then all over my face), my oncologist prescribed an antibiotic (can't recall the name) which cleared up pretty quickly. I kept my face clean and hydrated with a very light moisturizer (Clinique I believe) until it cleared up. Stay away and out of the sun!

I know exactly how you are feeling as you embark on this journey. Anxious, nervous, terrified and much more. Now that I am at the end of the chemo chapter (new chapter opens once I meet with two new physicians for their take on what to do next), I can say that while it wasn't easy, it was manageable. Be good to yourself and remind yourself that YOU CAN DO THIS!

Feel free to PM me if you need other suggestions should more symptoms manifest or if you have any questions that I might be able to help you with. I did not have radiation. I did have 6 rounds (3 days each) of very aggressive chemo treatments every 3 weeks or so (since Feb.).

And in case you are interested, I've been journaling this entire experience at CaringBridge.org. Am happy to send you the link. I found that journaling helps a lot. It's a great outlet and it allows those friends and family who are interested, the opportunity to come along for the ride (and avoids my having to repeat the same updates multiple times).

Thinking of you and remember- this too shall pass!