Last Chemo for Breast Cancer Patient
I’m done (hopefully). Here is a breast cancer blog post update of my last chemo at Texas Oncology in Austin.
Last Chemo – Texas Oncology Bell Ringing
I had to have a reduced dosage of the chemo today because of the reaction to the Taxotere last time. My regular oncologist wasn’t there today so we saw a different doctor.
Cryotherapy For Neuropathy from Taxotere Chemotherapy
He thought my hands looked pretty bad. He should have seen them last week! Anyway, he didn’t feel comfortable giving me the full dosage today because of the possibility of long-term effects. Even so, this was still my last chemo treatment (assuming all my follow up scans and tests look ok). We got a late start with the treatment because of this and they were pretty crowded there today. Morry picked up lunch for us and we ate while my treatment was going. During treatment they had me do cryotherapy to help reduce any side effects I may have from the Taxotere this time. I had to keep soaking my hands in ice water. The ice is supposed to stop the chemo from going to my hands. It wasn’t very comfortable, but I sure hope it helps.
The Ringing of the Chemo Bell
When I finished treatment all the nurses came over and showered us with confetti. Then, I rang the bell on the way out, the custom for all patients getting their last treatment. Of course, we took video during treatment and of me ringing the bell. You can see it here on YouTube.
At the end of the video Evan, Noah, Morry and I dance to celebrate – “Mommy’s last chemo”.
What it Feels Like to Finish Chemo
I’m feeling ok right now. I know I won’t feel so great over the weekend.
Michael and Jen were a big help today. They just ran out to pick up Salt Lick BBQ for dinner.
I hope you all have a great 2010 filled with love, health, happiness, family, and friends.
Happy New Year!
Love, Rachel
Read more about my breast cancer journey from 2009 to the present here.
If you know anyone having a mastectomy or other breast surgery, these breast cancer recovery shirts are a must-have.
Rachel K. Belkin, M.Ed is an Austin, Texas blogger, entrepreneur, speaker, freelance writer, and educator. After selling her lifestyle blog for six figures in 2021, she teaches business, blogging, and influencer marketing strategies that helped her build her business on part-time hours. Bylines include MSN, Associated Press, HuffPost, Medium, NewsBreak, and Hometalk. She has been featured on KXAN, Studio 512, Fox 7 Austin, CBS Austin, and other news and media outlets.
