Reaction to first TC chemo

Hi all,

I had a bad reaction to my first infusion treatment of T. I did the pre drugs and then started chemo, nurse watched to see if I had effects. Within first 10 minutes I had reactions such as shoulder pain, pain in chest, tightness I chest, difficulty breathing, lightheadness and seeing ‘stars.’ Nurse stopped the treatment, doc gave permission to titrate up to the dose, she also gave me more premeds.

I was really scared and uncertain about it when that happened. I knew I had another option that was not chemo road. I took some time to think about it and ask questions. They said it was probably a reaction but not something I was fearing like heart attack or something, and most people that they titrate with end up doing well with that approach. So I gave it another try with a plan in case I had it again. I did the dosage and Tc that day and did well with titration and more meds. I’m proud of myself for trying again despite a really scary reaction. I was so scared. But the titration approach worked for me today. I’ll continue to be optimistic.

(I was also because my mother had colon cancer and had a stroke while on chemo, 10 years ago. She’s alive and well now but had a disability from stroke. My goal is trying to give every chance I can to reduce risk of distant recurrence if possible, and long life, and that was my chemo goal.