Daughter of Les & Joan Allan and sister to Chris, Katie originated from Belfast and settled in Fradley, Staffordshire with husband, Stuart, and two children, Sam and Sophie.

Katie wrote this blog to share her story, improve awareness and spread inspiration & positivity amongst families, friends and others 'battling cancer - one day at a time'

Katie Scarbrough
04 March 1981 - 02 May 2013

Here Goes

Ok, this is my first blog and I’m sorry if its rubbish but bear with me!!

So, I am 3 days away from starting Chemotherapy and still it doesn’t feel real, or like it is happening to me. I am writing this and its almost like i’m writing about another person.

Anyway, to some technical information, on Wednesday I will be starting 3 different drugs and they all have their side effects. The first drug is a Biological Therapy. And believe it or not I am lucky to have it as it had to be applied for as its not readily available on the NHS. ( All part of the postcode lottery) Its called Bevacizumab, is given by IV and is known as a monoclonal antibody, it is also called a targeted therapy because they are designed to target cancer cells. The main side effects are sickness, tiredness, headaches, mouth ulcers and loss of appetite. The second drug is called Capecitabine, its given in tablet form. The main side effects are nausea, vomiting, mouth ulcers, taste changes, tiredness, joint pain, skin changes (whereby the soles of my feet and palms of my hands may become dry and itchy). The last drug is called Oxaliplatin this is given by IV. The main side effects is feeling of numbness or tingling in hands and feet. This can be triggered by anything cold. So I have to be careful putting my hands in the fridge and wear gloves. There goes any ice skating…lol Other side effects include risk of infection, bruising, nausea, vomiting and laryngeal spasms (which can be made worse with cold temperatures) so I will need to avoid cold drinks and ice cubes fro a few days after treatment.

Its tennis time…so come on Andy!!

 

Katie xxx

6 Comments

  • Natalie Cox Says

    Fingers crossed that you side effects are minimal Katie x x

  • Lisa Says

    Wow, what an inspiration, a true credit to start the journey of detailing your story.
    I hope that you remain positive and where possible joyous as I hope this will aid your treatment and recovery.
    I can not imagine how daunting it must be, nor can I offer words of wisdom. But I wish you well xx

  • Alison Burns Says

    I think it is amazing that you are sharing your thoughts at this most challenging time in your life, it is a real testimant to your strength of character, your children obviously have an amazing role model for a Mother! I hope and pray that you don’t have to much discomfort in your battle against this horrendous unseen monster. I will send positive thoughts your way on a daily basis and will continue to read your blogs to track your successful progress. love to you and all your family 🙂 Ax

  • Olga Leatherbarrow Says

    Well Katie, if the cold beggins to be a problem you have your home in Spain whenever you want! I have enough room for all the family, so come on down whenever you want a holiday! xxx

  • Annie Says

    Hi Katie,

    I read your story in today’s Daily Mail and I just wanted you know that I am keeping you in my prayers.

    I believe that God heals, even when there seems to be no hope of healing.

    Try to stay happy for you beautiful children x

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