The Aftermath of Docataxel

Sorry I haven’t written for a while. A friend worried that I’m not well enough to write. My lapse has been a combination of being busy (working, doctors’ appointments, etc.) and a lack of energy.  

Shortly after my third chemo session, the first treatment with Docataxel, I had  a very rough time.  I was warned that Docataxel would leave me feeling like I was at the height of the flu for 4-5 days.  I would say that is a fair description.  Docataxel left me with constant achiness and headache, GI problems, brutal mouth sores, a day of fever and again, undescribable fatigue for 11-12 days.  On Day 11, I called to make an appointment with my local oncologist to discuss my chemo options.  I had decided that having cancer was bad enough.  Despite promising myself that I’d continue any treatment as long as it was helping, after nearly two weeks of feeling like crap, I had decided I would not do Docataxel again.  I was willing to try other chemos or other treatment ideas.  I just could not picture myself having to get another Docataxel dose while still recovering from my first dose.  However, on Day 12, I woke up with a lot less pain and discomfort.  Day 13 brought me more energy, and by the time I met with my local oncologist on Day 14, I felt pretty good.  He and I still discussed the side effects and strategies for minimizing them, but I did not bring up the notion that I was not willing to do another round of Docataxel.   

I’m committed to one more round (this Friday)...at least.