Starting Chemo and What You NEED to Know... (UPDATE)

In today’s video I'm sharing what I would do if I was starting chemo...and I have! ** Click here for products to help you through chemotherapy: www.amazon.com/shop/marinabla...
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I’m Marina Blackford, a 2x breast cancer survivor, mom, Boston marathon runner and dental hygienist with a passion for sharing positivity and life hacks.
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[@MarinaBlackford]

I’m so grateful for YOU being here! **Click here for products to help with your journey: www.amazon.com/shop/marinablackford

[@1994flameboy]

29 y.o here diagnosed B cell lymphoma Stage 2, I am starting chemo next week. I am setting a prayer 🙏 for all us here , yes for you reading this you will do it!!! you will go through!!! may god help us!

[@MarinaBlackford]

Prayers for you. 🙏🏼

[@1994flameboy]

@@MarinaBlackfordguys 3 monthes passed after my coment and guess what after 4 chemos cancer is gone!!! I beated it so you will do it too!!! l have left 2 chemos and imunotheraphy 😇😇😇💪💪💪

[@sfp7791]

Amen

[@sfp7791]

I will start my hemo nxtweek for colon cancer stage4..godbless us all.....

[@khaleesisnow1683]

🙏❤️🙏

[@DG-mv6zw]

I speak as a man when i say women are so much stronger and resilient than we males. Don't know yet if I'll be doing chemo but if i do then i hope i can face it like you did.....and I'm in no way playing down the struggle you must've gone. through. Thanks so much for giving something back to cancer patients who, like me, are pretty scared. God bless you and your family. Greetings from Scotland 👍

[@creaturemoon1546]

21 yr old here, thank you for the advice. Starting chemo the 2nd of febuary! wish me luck

[@MarinaBlackford]

More than luck. You can do this. ❤️

[@mymoonearthsun]

🙏🏼All is going well!❤ I start Chemo tomorrow!

[@aliciataylor671]

So glad I found your channel. I just got diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer in my left breast, also triple negative. I had my port placed in yesterday and will be starting chemo soon. Thank you for the positivity, insight and tips.😊

[@MarinaBlackford]

I'm so glad you found me too! I know my tips can help. I pray you heal!

[@aliciataylor671]

Thank you so much🙏🏽

[@mythaichannel9082]

OMG. I just got my biopsy results three days ago and of course two lumps in my left breast diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ DCIS but my lymph nodes are negative for carcinoma. I find out more in a couple of days when I meet with consultation with surgeon

[@lilymoon0f0]

Hi I to am newly diagnosed with TNBC . I offer you support in the fight . We can do this survive & thrive .God bless you

[@Moon0552]

Awww I have breast cancer too! I am searching everything about it.. glad I found this channel :) everything will be ok ladies ❤ we will be ok 😊

[@nathalice21]

Thank you so much! I just discovered your videos as I'm preparing for my first chemo later this month. I feel very lucky to have access to all this info beforehand, thanks again for doing all this 🙏💕

[@CAROLYNADAMS-jp7kc]

I finished chemo last week. I would add: bring a soft lightweight blanket. Ask for extra pillows. Don't expect everyone to be supportive of chemobrain. Realize you may not have strength to support or be a counselor to friends. You may lose friends. Look for supportive positive people. You may crave or hate foods. I needed lots of carbs even with T2D... I experienced severe body chills with low carb days. Prepare and have prosthetic cranial prosthesis, beautiful scarves/ headwraps. Avoid the standard chemo turban or tie back look. Find beautiful styles for headwraps ie. (African) online. Refuse the dead chemo look. 9:38

[@MarinaBlackford]

Thank you for sharing! I love you mentioning the soft blanket. I use the ones they had there but they were not comfortable. Extra pillows are great too. Thanks for keeping it real. What a great thing to mention about the head wraps. Look for something beautiful.

[@hollyregan-jones7571]

Thanks so much for your honest and clear advice. I'm contemplating chemo in the next couple of months which is very frightening but your down-to-earth approach is a big help!

[@paulahenfield8264]

Thank you so much I found out last year I have stage 2cancer started chemo and watching you helps me to fight more God bless you

[@amya9597]

Love watching your videos and your tips. ❤️ I just had my first chemo on Friday and so far I’ve only had leg cramps and pain from the Neulasta Onpro. I did take Claritin for 5 days to help combat the pain and I’ve taken Tylenol as well. I’m hoping the cramps ease up as the days go by.🤞

[@dianarego1799]

Love love these videos thank you so much

[@MarinaBlackford]

Thank you! ❤️

[@darswearington1244]

Such a warrior. Thank you for sharing your journey. So happy for you ! Love & light. 💞🙌🏽

[@MarinaBlackford]

Thank you! ❤️

[@eher7675]

Glad to see your hair growing. Good information for us going through tnbc. Look forward to more videos and updates. God bless you 🙏🏼

[@MarinaBlackford]

Thank you! God bless you too! 🙏🏼

[@NoPronoun224]

Thank you! I don’t think anyone has described the experience as clearly and thoughtfully as you. Best to you!

[@MarinaBlackford]

Thank you for that! I appreciate you! Best to you too!

[@cvstadium3164]

Thanks a lot for your advice

[@tarasilverman5143]

Thank you so much. Now I know how to help my Mom with what she’s going through ❤

[@MarinaBlackford]

You’re so welcome! ❤️

[@quantricebrooks7732]

I'm so happy thatbI stumbled across your inspiration channel. Was recently diagnosed with stage 3 and was having a hard time thinking how how I would get thru this especially with my little ones. Instead of going to a negative space I wanted to prepare for the journey ahead. Your positivity has inspired me as well as your videos. Thank you!! 😊 💕

[@MarinaBlackford]

I’m so glad you found me too! You can do this! ❤️

[@BeautifulyYou]

God bless you and your mother and thank you for sharing your experiences ❣️ I pray 🙏🏽 and hope everything continues to go well for you both 🌹

[@MarinaBlackford]

Thank you so much! ❤️🙏🏼

[@angelhurd8472]

Thanks for all of this information

[@MarinaBlackford]

You’re welcome!

[@deanna36]

Thank you for this information, it has help me. Prepare for my chemo on monday.. ❤️

[@MarinaBlackford]

I pray it goes well. ❤️

[@oliviabright8720]

Praise God for healing you. Thank you for sharing! God is our healer!

[@natefaust7790]

I’ve survived a stroke, a blood bacteria and cancer. I’m alive by the grace of God. I’m waiting to get the results of my biopsy, my pet scan had places that lite up like a neon light. So that’s why I needed a biopsy. I should find out if I will have cancer again or not in a few days. But Gods got this no matter what happens.

[@desertnymph2968]

I just wanted to say thank you for making these videos! I didn’t know hardly anything about cancer or chemo until I found your videos! 🥰 my PA loved that I knew so much about chemo already for my very first chemo info appointment. She said it was so refreshing to talk to a first timer who did some research. ✌🏻🥰 All thanks to you and your videos!!

[@MarinaBlackford]

Wow! Thank you! That’s great feedback! I’m proud of you for doing your research too!

[@irenekellywalsh9632]

Thank you Matina for ver informed video hope you are well love from Ireland

[@MarinaBlackford]

Thank you! I’m doing very well. Love to you!

[@jodykennedy8924]

Hi Marina, thank you for these amazing tips. I recently had my first chemo session on 5 Jan. My next session is coming up and this time I will be better prepared. 🙂 Watched a few of your videos and I'm so happy I found You. Strongs & Take Care

[@MarinaBlackford]

You’re welcome Jody! I hope these tips help! ❤️

[@marthag9048]

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience and hacks, it rlly helps a lot. My mom is about to go through chemotherapy soon. I want to be able to take care of her the best way possible so your videos are helping me a lot! Thank you I appreciate you so much. ❤️

[@MarinaBlackford]

You’re welcome! You are amazing to do the research and help her! I pray her journey goes well. ❤️

[@angelapolster292]

Thank you! I’ve learned so much from your videos. I’ll have my port put in on Jan 21st and Chemo is starting the first week of February.

[@MarinaBlackford]

You’re welcome! ❤️🙏🏼

[@mythaichannel9082]

Thank you for sharing your tips. I just got diagnosed with breast cancer in my left breast three days ago right before Christmas 🎄 will find out more when I meet with the consultation surgeon in a couple of days and throughout the week

[@MarinaBlackford]

Thanks for watching! I know my tips can help you!

[@JacquelineL.]

very helpful advice. i start chemo on 4/19. will definitely pack a chemo bag. your energy and spirit is definitely uplifting and encouraging. thank you!

[@MarinaBlackford]

Oh good. So happy I can help you! You got this! 🙏🏼❤️

[@mitatrivedi6497]

Thank you for sharing your options God bless you

[@MarinaBlackford]

You’re welcome! 🙏🏼

[@annk3372]

Would love to meet your mom and hear her story. Would love to see a video with you her and her sister talking about breast cancer and life before and after.

[@MarinaBlackford]

I’ll be planning this…! 👍🏼

[@odettes.abregana6534]

Thank youMarina. Your sharing is so helpful to me as i will start my chemo in two weeks. God bless and get well soon. We can do this with God.

[@MarinaBlackford]

I pray you do well! Thank you for watching!

[@maryannpythoud9298]

I’m an American that has been living in Switzerland for over 40 years now. My mother, in the States had breast cancer. Because of this I had my breast check ups yearly. This February we detected breast cancer in my right breast. I started my chemo on May 2, 2022, breast . All is going well. I had heavy duty treatments for the first 4 months. One dose every 4 weeks. Now I‘m on a somewhat easy going treatment. At least I dont have to fight the nausea and constapatiin. They told me that I don’t have „hereditary breast cancer“ because my grandmother didn’t have it. My 3 lymph nodes are clear and I don’t have any metastasis and my cancer isn‘t feeding off hormones, Estrogen, Testosterone. Thats another plus. Your blog has been a great help to me. You‘ve given me many good tips through my treatments. I‘ve been given some of them to a couple of my Swiss Cancer friends, too. Keep up your good work and your positive embrace on this journey. Acceptance is the biggest and most important medicine to get through it.🙏🏽😊

[@MarinaBlackford]

I hope everything continues to go well for you and you heal completely! Thank you for the comment! I’m so glad my tips can help you and others. Be well!

[@indimist390]

R u triple neg

[@maryannpythoud9298]

I am triple negative.

[@wwilliams3278]

Your videos helped me to get an idea of what to expect during chemo, surgery and now radiation!! I just completed my first week of rads!! 4 more weeks to go!!🎉🎉🎉 Thanks Marina!!!

[@MarinaBlackford]

You’re welcome! That makes me so happy to hear that! Praying your journey goes well! You got this! ❤️

[@susancrounse7030]

I’m 68 retired lung cancer 6 weeks of radiation and chemo chemo once a week radiation every day just getting port done next week

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi! I hope all goes okay for you. 🙏🏼

[@nataod4875]

Hello Marina. Thanks a lot for your useful advices. Your are the best! I start my first chemo today. I am understand that this way not easy, but watching your videos gives me confidence that everything will be fine. I wish you happiness and good health.

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi! Thank you for being here! You are healing! Good health to you!

[@nataod4875]

Thank you very much for wishes. I also wish you good health and happy life with a lot pleasant surprises)

[@jaymelogan9736]

Thank you so much for this! I start Chemo 11/17/22 had my DMX 10/06/22

[@MarinaBlackford]

You’re welcome! I hope you feel more prepared.

[@carolbrice5897]

Thank you

[@beckydupree8794]

Thank you for this info. I’m starting chemo on the 30 of October 2023. I have stage 2b breast cancer. I just had the port put in.

[@MarinaBlackford]

Your welcome! You got this. 🫶🏼

[@virginiaphillips5217]

I cannot express my gratitude for sharing your experiences with us. I am the mother of my only daughter..who was recently diagnosed with a very aggressive breast cancer called H.E.R.2... We are devastated and I feel helpless but NOT hopeless. However , as this is all new to us we don't really know all of what to expect. You have given me a peace I have not felt since hearing the news. My heart is heavy with gratitude and I feel for the first time a sense that there IS HOPE... If I could as a mother I would gladly take her place. This video will help me to be strong for her. God bless you

[@MarinaBlackford]

You’re welcome! I feel this. I can be strong but seeing a child have to go through this would be so hard. There is hope. You all will get through it one day at a time. May she heal well!

[@SpaceeGhosst02]

My mom just started chemo and hate to see her sick . Please keep her in yallls prayers !🥲

[@MarinaBlackford]

🙏🏼❤️

[@vannahbunnyy7067]

22 y.o here got diagnosed said it was stage 3 unsure of origin, so I didn’t get injections :( about year ago went thru three rounds last 2/4/23 my follow up and got a bunch of IDK if there’s cancers still.. went got second opinion.. so now I’m going thru it again 😩 watching videos gives me comfort and hope.

[@MarinaBlackford]

Oh my goodness. That’s a lot at such a young age. I pray you keep finding answers and heal!

[@tanjaalemany6412]

Just found your video! Had my first Chemo just finished about 4 hours ago and wondered what I might missed before I started today... but I seem to have been ready, except for 3 points... eye mask - oops that was a trip and so emotional!! Ice packs for wrist and feet - won't work for me since I di the Paxman and I am already cold, but had the idea of taking some hot hand packs to warm my hands under the blanket Anti nausea bands - even though is was fine, I will do it preventive for next time. All the other points I got from papers from my doctor, so I feel like I was ready for my first one. My chemo bag had too much, but my daughter was my mule so it was ok and it was the first time. The access to the port was totally easy, like a finger prick, but numbing cream is a great, which I was told too in advance. I did not use it. Thanks for all the help and great info, I will share this with my friend that has her mother starting next week (much worse than me) I have tripple neg like you had in 2015, but only did a lumpectomy! So just very hopeful! We fight to win!!❤

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi, thank you for watching! And thank you so much for sharing your feedback. I hope you are doing well through treatment. I also did not use the numbing cream for when they accessed my port. I just think they do it so fast and the prick/stick is not that bad to me.

[@dalmishchannel3339]

Stay strong 💪 nice

[@dunawayalt]

I had a total hysterectomy in Feb 22 followed by the plan of chemo 1 round every 3 weeks for 3, 5 weeks radiation then 3 more rounds of chemo. Today was round 2. Your videos are not only informative but also comforting. Your video was the first one I saw that said to get the cooling mitts. That helped so much! I feel so much more prepared. Thank you so much!

[@MarinaBlackford]

That made my day to hear I could help. Thank you! And I hope you continue to heal through your journey! ❤️

[@MelModica]

My mom is going the same thing, she starts chemo this month! How are you doing? Did you do cold capping? I’m trying to help my mom save her hair so we are buying the caps and supplies and doing the work ourselves. Insurance should cover cold capping for all cancer patients because it costs $1600 out of pocket!

[@karenknight9565]

Hi Marina! Great tips! Your hair is getting so long… I’m jealous 😂 How is your mom doing? I’m sure you r a great strength for each other. Maybe you could do an interview with her experience with TNBC. Hope your family is well! 💕

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi Karen! Yes, I can do an update with my mom! That would be great since she’s almost done for the 3rd time! She started radiation. Thank you for asking! Next video will likely be a Vlog. Hope you’re well too!

[@pamelabaker3029]

I do fasting and no animal no carbs no sugar no salt

[@debrabrown6197]

Thank you for your video. I was diagnosed with breast cancer about 2 weeks ago. I was in a fog and scared. Im still scared, not knowing what is going to happen and what chemo feels like. I was wondering about a port and why I really needed one, you answered that question for me. I just want this all past me.

[@MarinaBlackford]

I’m sorry Debra. It’s all so scary for a while. Cancer and chemo bring up so many emotions for us. You can heal though. I pray you do. 🙏🏼❤️

[@sheila7814]

I also just got diagnosed last week. Have felt like I’m on a rollercoaster, but more up than down. I hope all is going well for you. Marina’s videos are great, yes…. And I am so happy to have found them. [Dear Lord, please be with Debra Brown and heal her body. Give her strength to fight this. We can do this with your healing hand. Thank you for your grace and love. Amen]

[@payat4417]

Hello! Just done my 1st chemo last March 11 I have 6 sessions only every 21 days, 1st chemo is awful 😢, but I thank God after 5 days am okay totally, my next on March 31 again.

[@MarinaBlackford]

I’m sorry! It is such an icky feeling! Keep hydrated and I hope you feel better soon.

[@robertnasca]

(Using husband’s account) I love your channel! I’m 1/2 done with my chemo. I watch all your videos. I recommend bringing your own blanket and some fuzzy socks too!

[@MarinaBlackford]

Thank you! ❤️ My cousin who started chemo has a wearable blanket she is taking to chemo. Genius to have her hands free! Congrats on being halfway!

[@jennyegrider8089]

Thank you for sharing your journey. Today was my first Chemo Treatment. I would have made you laugh at my chemo bags. Blanket, chemo gift with snacks, protein drink and 50 ozs water bottle, coloring books, cooler with my hand and sock cool packs (one sock was sown together at ankle. LOL) I had no time to look at anything I brought as my phone was blowing up with well wishes. I told staff I was downsizing next trip as today I felt like I needed to take what people gave me. Taking your size bag and water cup next time. It was smooth sailing today.

[@MarinaBlackford]

I’ve been there. It’s like overpacking for a trip! I think the coloring books are a great activity for your mind and hands when you’re at home recovering. My “extra packing” was the cooler this last round of chemo but well worth it to ice my hands and feet. Good luck on your journey!

[@mehvishaftab6687]

Hi marina u r such a brave person i ever found could u plz tell me when we start feeling in our selves after chemo insfusion bcz i still not feeling my self and tired all the time feeling diziness when i go to kitchen and wanted to do something

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi, thank you! That is so hard! Keep moving when you feel well and drinking water. It helps to have some kind of routine even when you’re on chemo. I pray you feel better. Also, tell your nurses or doctors about your symptoms.

[@flava.]

im 14 and im getting tested for leukemia tomorrow afternoon because i have almost ever symptom, and I’ve been breaking out in a rash for the past 5 months. so im just watching this just in case so its less scary if i do get diagnosed

[@MarinaBlackford]

I pray you found out what’s causing your rash and heal!

[@ja1962ful]

I wish I could've found you sooner! I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Mestatic Breast Cancer double negative HER2 Positive. Now I'm on CANCER TARGETED THERAPY. I'll be on it for the rest of my life.

[@MarinaBlackford]

Thank you for being here. ❤️ How are you doing on that therapy? I hope well.

[@ja1962ful]

@MarinaBlackford I'm doing ok. Some days are good and some days not so good. Thank you for asking.

[@alexbezzegh572]

Hi! I was diagnosed HER2 positive Breast cancer and will started soon my chemotherapy. Thanks your video help me alot. May i ask.. you suggesting after chemo what i can wear next day. Please i never heard about it

[@mindydemore8347]

Love love you thank you

[@MarinaBlackford]

You’re welcome! ❤️

[@annekrause7954]

Just found your channel! I just finished my first of four chemotherapies for TNBC. Your advice is very helpful. Any ideas on how to get my taste buds back to normal? That has been the absolute worst…….😝

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi! Thanks for watching! I wish I knew that secret! I don’t think much helps but time and trying different flavors to see what works best for you. Your taste should come back after treatment is done.

[@kisslena]

Thank you Marina for the extremely useful information! I’m not a candidate for chemo, but I still received good knowledge from your tips in this video! Continued Blessings of Full Health & Strength💛

[@MarinaBlackford]

Thank you! Same to you! 🙏🏼

[@micahford7670]

Thanks so much for making these videos. I am about to start chemo for colorectal cancer and your information is a big help to me. Do you feel the cold gloves/socks helped out at all?

[@MarinaBlackford]

Yes, I do think the ice packs helped. The first time I had chemo I did not ice and my feet were killing me one night from neuropathy. I had none of that when I used the ice packs.

[@micahford7670]

@@MarinaBlackford Thanks. I had my first infusion last friday and I wore the cold socks and gloves. So far, I don't have any issues with my feet or hands!

[@beckyej6296]

Hi Marina, thank you for sharing, can you please tell what should a teenager during chemotherapy eat or do that would help up strength the body like exercise, or some specific food item??

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi! Sorry for a late response! From my experience I always loved smoothie and soup during Chemo. It kept my hydrated and had good ingredients like fruits, veggies or broth in the soup. Exercise depends on the person but walking daily is at least recommended to keep you body moving that chemo through literally.

[@AndreaStep]

Thank you! My mom was diagnosed in December and is now doing chemo and want to know how can I best help her ❤️

[@MarinaBlackford]

You’re a great daughter! I hope your mom’s journey goes well! ❤️

[@chuckee1104]

Hi Marina, any tips/videos on foods to avoid? Also foods that you were able to taste while using Taxotere?

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi! I try not to specifically say what to eat and not eat since everyone has such different beliefs. I would say to eat balanced. Fruit and vegetables are always good, but I especially liked them when I did chemo. Since chemo can make you nausea, I would eat what you can and doesn’t make you feel bad. I avoided processed food like chips and focused on good stuff like smoothies or a veggie stir fry. I’ll share more on this in upcoming videos.

[@lauraarciga7783]

Starting treatment Monday.. I taking cold packs

[@MarinaBlackford]

I hope you’re doing well. The cold packs can help! Keep it up.

[@cafe80sarigachu]

Im waiting for another overall body check up after a twice biopsy and an MRI Before they decided if i needed a Chemo or hormones therapy.

[@MarinaBlackford]

I hope you have your answers soon!

[@keithsimmons3443]

I also have been diagnosed with B type lymphoma. I’m very not ready for this and still digesting it.

[@MarinaBlackford]

No one is ready. I’m sorry.

[@Lid801]

Hi Marina, I start my first infusion on 10 March (8 sessions, the first 4 is the Red Devil). I had a lumpectomy back in January. I am worried about losing my hair, aging (I have always maintained good skin regime). Can you recommend the diet during chemo as well? Thank you, live your videos. Lydia

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi Lydia! I’m sorry you have to go through this. I hope all goes okay for you. Unless you cold cap you will lose your hair with AC aka red devil chemo. I would prepare with having some chemo caps or head wraps to hear and a wig if it will help you feel good. My best recommendations for food is cold pressed juices, smoothies, and soup. You should eat things that make you feel better. You may need to alternate what you eat due to nausea and taste change. Much love to you!

[@MarinaBlackford]

amzn.to/3K84krl Link for a cookbook! 👍🏼

[@sophies5959]

I am so glad I have found you I have just been diagnosed with breast cancer. I am being tested for genetic. As my mum, mu anutie and my nan has had breast cancer. I am 29 and doing chemo first I am so scared of my first round. How did you cope with your very first chemo?

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi Sophie! I’m so glad you found me too! I was 31 when I did my first chemo. I’m trying to remember that time. For me, I managed the side effects of chemo with all these tips I share. But more so, I had to acknowledge the feelings of having cancer: I’m going to lose my breasts but it will save my life, I’m going to lose my hair…that was a hard one! Let those emotions come out and take it one day at a time. I hope that helps. Let me know any other specific questions.

[@sophies5959]

I am having a picc line put in as that is what my hospital offer. How did you minimise the risk of Infection whilst going through chemo ?

[@lin2thez341]

@@sophies5959 Hey Sophie, good luck.....you've got this!! I've been on chemo for 12 months now and no infection, not even a cold. Mask up, wash your hands and minimize exposure to others if you can. All the tips Marina gave were great. For me, hydration and keeping active (as much as possible) were key.

[@tiachandler5350]

I have been watching tour videos all day today my dad had appointments today for the dr to schedule putting the port in and then pre op app at the hospital the same day exact day he goes monday to have his port put in and then his first chemo treatment is on thursday may 11th and he has stage 3 pancreatic cancer the doctor told him if he didnt do chemo he would live about 6 months if he does chemo and it shrinks the mass where it isnt wrapped around the main vessel in his stomach that pumps the blood to all the things in his stomach so right now with it being 4 cm and it being wrapped around that vessel they cant do surgery right now at all so were hoping that the chemo shrinks the tumor and he can have surgery they said with the surgery if they can do it after chemo then he will have 15 maybe 18 months left to live😢 so not much more time but at least its a little more time but truth is i dont want him suffering at all when thr first dr told him he had a year to live and that surgery would only give him maybe 18 months to live he wasnt going to do treatment but monday when his surgeon told him that it was only 6 months at the most if he didnt try chemo to shrink it and do the surgery he said well lets get this chemo going then ..then he asked how much time if he does do it and what are the odds of the pancreatic cancer spreading if they do get to a point where they can do the surgery and it was 15 and coukd even be 18 months he said he was going to have the surgery done but he said hes not sure how chemo is going to make him extremely sick he said he mah have to rethink things ...its sad it truly is hearing him say im not ready to leave yall yet and my grandkids its heartbreaking and i have been keeping it all together hes lived with us for 20 years hes watched my kids grow up in our home just like us i know my kids are very upset as well its just sad cancer sucks so bad theres nothing good about it its a horrible horrible thing for anyone to get im praying for everyone who has it or has a loved one or friend with it and yall are there fighting the battle with them praying for you all ...

[@MarinaBlackford]

I’m so sorry. That is so hard to get that news and having to weigh the odds. I feel for you all. There really is no wrong decision here. It’s his body and life and I pray he’s without suffering. 🙏🏼

[@tesstolentino8041]

Hi again Marina! So I have Fibromyalgia and have neuropathy both hands and feet, is it better to use ice packs for that? I find it more soothing if I use warmers as heat calms it for me. And also you're TNBC, but you have recurrence, is that because of high risk due to BRCA1? I'm TPBC and just watched a video explaining about HER2+ being aggressive and likely to recur. How long was the duration of your chemo in a day? The care team's plan for me is to have chemo every 21 days for 8 hours long for 6 x. I have most of my "to go pack" when I start my journey, copied from your advised "12 things must have for chemo" Thank you and I admire your persona. Also thank you for your vlog, it helps us a lot.

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi! The ice packs help to prevent neuropathy. If you already have neuropathy I would do what feels best for you! Ask your doctor on that one. My reoccurrence is due to the BRCA genetic mutation. My chemo was an hour for each chemo infusion plus premeds. So 3 hours in the infusion chair. But also lab work at least an hour before. I was usually there 7am-12pm, 5 hours total. I’m so glad my videos can help! ❤️

[@sheliajohnson1418]

❤

[@dianasingsmountains2826]

No ice packs to prevent peripheral neuropathy. I found NICE1 cold (not freezing) and compression device that can b rented. This did not work for me with lymphoma because with lymphoma it can effect the skin and we want the chemo to get to the extremities.

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi! That sounds like a good option. Yes, patients should ask their doctors about their cancer but I know this is okay for stage 2 breast cancer.

[@sandraweston9019]

Have you tried fasting before chemo session - if so, have you found it works? I have just endured my very first chemo session, fasted fir two days before and although feeling tired and nauseous have not been sick or had too much more discomfort than I have from my Fibromyalgia.

[@MarinaBlackford]

I have never fasted more than 12 hours. With my metabolism, I tend to wake up hungry. I’m trying to push back my breakfasts more but that’s impossible for days I work since I see patients once I start work. I say do what you can and listen to your body. I hope someone can share their experience for you here too…

[@bobs1356]

Hi sweetie it's Shirley here from MI. I didn't know you had 2 ports put in. I guess I must of missed this video. I thought I seen all of them.

[@MarinaBlackford]

I’ve had a port on each side of my chest for each time I had breast cancer. The first port was removed since I had no evidence of disease.

[@bobs1356]

@@MarinaBlackford ok got it it just that I have gone through all your videos and maybe missed when you had your first port in . LOL.

[@bobs1356]

@@MarinaBlackford ok I thought I saw all your videos but but misunderstood about the second port. Your such a sweetheart of a person, we need more people in the world like you. LOL.

[@MarinaBlackford]

@@bobs1356 it’s a lot to keep track of! 😉

[@ngawanggyaatso5486]

World leader must pay serious attention on making cancer medicine rather than unnecessary weopon ,cancer is making huge problem in our World,god bless all patients!

[@MarinaBlackford]

May we all have peace and health!

[@crazyentertainment3298]

🙏

[@cafe80sarigachu]

How about ,what clothes to wear during chemo?

[@MarinaBlackford]

Great question. If you have a port you will want them to be able to reach it easily. I wore a lower neck line, v-neck or button up shirt to help. If you have an IV in your arm, you’ll want short sleeves or be able to move up your sleeve easily.

[@xxjungjungxx]

Hello Marina - how long did you have ice packs on your hands and feet? During the whole chemo infusion? Did you do also that after the infusion?

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi, I iced on and for each hour of infusion so a total of 2 hours for me. I did not I’ve after. You could however sit and ice for 30min after if it’s an option.

[@jeramoore4045]

I’m triple negative too and scared to death. Braca 1 gene carrier I am. One sister dead from it too. I feel like I’m in the dark about everything with chemo

[@MarinaBlackford]

I am sorry. It can be very scary. Triple negative is typically recommended to do chemo. If you feel in doubt about something thing they have said about your treatment, I would get a second opinion.

[@thuyle1075]

Do you recommend doing cold cap therapy to prevent hair loss? Having cold hands And feet and head too might be too much for me to handle.

[@MarinaBlackford]

I choose not to do cold cap therapy due to the time commitment and still losing 30-50% of hair. Some people do cold cap and are happy though. Do your research. I personally recommend icing hands and feet if possible. It’s not as bad as it sounds. Having neuropathy can be very uncomfortable and have lasting effects. Icing for 2 hours once a week was worth it to me.

[@thuyle1075]

@@MarinaBlackford do you only do it during chemo?

[@MarinaBlackford]

@@thuyle1075 yes cold cap and icing the hands and feet is only during chemo.

[@mariannesherman7390]

Marina, sign me up on your list of the 3rd time for the chemo/radiation package. One more time!

[@MarinaBlackford]

Nooo! Sorry to hear that. I pray you heal!

[@beverlyclayton592]

Hi Marina! My name is Beverly. Im 26 and just graduated podiatry school and starting residency. Unfortunately i have to delay residency due to my diagnosis of breast cancer and also triple negative. I will be starting chemo soon and have a few questions. For the ice packs, did you wear them only on infusion day and if so how long or did you continue to wear them during the week? Also, Im very active now, did you also get very tired? Then last thing, did you have surgery as well? Sorry for the long post lol, just anxious. Thank you

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi Beverly! I’m sorry to hear of your diagnosis. I would wear ice packs during my chemo infusion. I did not wear them after. I think if you wanted to do that it be up to you. I did get tired after chemo. I did chemo weekly. So I would be the most tired on day four after chemo. Then start to feel better. I was able to work at least part time during chemo and raise children. This could be different for others. I did have surgery. I had a double mastectomy after my first breast cancer. And I had a lump ectomy after my second breast cancer. Check out my breast surgery videos.

[@MarinaBlackford]

BREAST CANCER SURGERY TIPS from a 2x Breast Cancer Survivor! kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZniWnoChlKqkfbc

[@beverlyclayton592]

@Marina Blackford Thank you! I just got my port placed as well and will be starting AC hopefully June 7th!

[@KS-op5hb]

Folks who lived chemo - May I ask, how long after chemo completion is your port removed?

[@MarinaBlackford]

This is different for everyone. I had mine removed about 4.5 months after the second time. The post can come out usually after you’ve had a clear surgery and complete all treatment. REMEMBER to have your part flushed every 6 weeks if it’s not being accessed for labs or infusion.

[@jeramoore4045]

They told me I didn’t need one but I feel I do.

[@MarinaBlackford]

Get a second opinion if needed.

[@arlenesanchez5677]

Did you have to get the booster shots after chemo? I always have to go five day's in a row, for boosting my white cells. I never hear anyone talk about these shots.

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi! Yes I did the shot after several chemo, including a nuelasta patch injection. I mention it in some of my videos. I can bring that up again though!

[@arlenesanchez5677]

@@MarinaBlackford Thank you, for sharing your information with other's! Yeah, it because I don't know what is making some foods taste bad. The Chemo or these shots.

[@annetterios8789]

Hi, Because you are BRCA1, did your oncologist recommend a maintenance treatment (pill)?

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi, great question. Not yet. I’ll be asking about this at my next visit soon since it has been recommended to my mom.

[@annetterios8789]

@@MarinaBlackford Thank you!

[@susancrounse7030]

Can you tell me where to find ice mitten and ice socks I can’t find your link for them

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi, this list has everything for chemo: www.amazon.com/shop/marinablackford/list/3ODEAJDEV6B64?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_aipsflist_aipsfmarinablackford_QSKRM0DPBT0P9MDDNS2A

[@luisarojas7566]

Do you have to have someone with you all the 6 hours that the infusions last? Or you can stay by yourself, I feel like I would like someone with me all the time but I understand is too much time and I feel guilty to have them with me all the time, Do you think I can stay in the hospital my myself? Or is better not to? How did you manage that?

[@MarinaBlackford]

I had someone with me for all of my chemo’s during the first time I had cancer. The chemo day was broken up with going to the lab on the first floor, then doing infusion for about three hours. Some friends would bring a book or a computer to do work while they stayed with me. The second time I had cancer, I went to all my infusions by myself and I did just fine doing my own thing of watching videos on my iPad, journaling, listening to meditation. Do what makes sense to you. Maybe try it both ways each time. I did, however, have someone drive me to chemo and pick me up each time. I did not like driving leaving chemo but you can if you feel able to.

[@luisarojas7566]

@@MarinaBlackford thank you so much, I am not sure how I am going to handle it, sometimes I want to think I am going to do it fine just by myself but sometimes I feel like I don’t want be alone in that place with sick people that I don’t know, I think is going to be depressing for me, honestly I don’t want to go there, but I have to, no choice 😕

[@radnukespeoplesminds]

I hate working even before chemo and radiation working during chemo is hell. Or maybe my manager is the devil LOL

[@MarinaBlackford]

Haha, oh man. I love my work and boss so I’m lucky there!

[@nataliepowell123]

Hello I was just diagnosed with breast cancer stage 3a I'm kinda on edge I head about kemo and it scares me

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi Natalie, yes chemo can be scary but it can cure you and help to be sure your cancer hasn’t spread. All of our diagnosis are different so I would recommend getting a second opinion and deciding after that if you are on the edge about what to do.

[@cathynguyen6299]

Hi thanks you about your experience story of chemotherapy. Base on your story, cancer came back after you had Chemotherapy 3 times. So do you think chemo is not a good treatment for cancer.

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi Cathy, thanks for watching. My cancer came back after being clear of any cancer cells for five years. I did chemo then had all my breast tissue removed and tested and there was no evidence of disease. Having a cancer come back at the five-year mark was surprising, but also the most likely time for a cancer to return is within the five years after treatment. So my chemo did work. Unfortunately I am a case for my cancer would return. I hope that makes sense.

[@W27Rich]

Found this video too late lol. Finally finished, would have helped if I found this earlier

[@MarinaBlackford]

Aw bummer! Hope you’re healing!

[@adityaburhade4040]

How much time it will take to grow hair back

[@MarinaBlackford]

It starts to grow when chemo is done. 6 months after you should have a good short haircut like a pixie cut.

[@LisasColoringCorner]

I was just diagnosed with Stage IV pancreatic cancer. Do you feel your channel would help me or do you know of another similar channel?

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi! Welcome! My chemo, surgery and radiation tips can help anyone on a similar path. My mindset I share often helps others with their anxiety too. Use what you can here. ❤️

[@MelModica]

Did any of you ladies do cold capping? I’m buying the supplies and doing the work for my mom to help her save her hair! I think it’s sad insurance doesn’t cover cold capping for cancer patients!

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi! I did not. I know someone that did do it with success. You’re so good to help your mom!

[@Khori90]

I tried it, unfortunally without succes. After 3 weeks my hair started to fall out then I stopped using cold cap.

[@anio6865]

Not including the chemo; But, does the lumpectomy alone make you very weak ?

[@MarinaBlackford]

No. Lumpectomy did not make me weak. Just need some time to heal from surgery then I was good.

[@lin2thez341]

Curious as to what chemo drugs you did for each bout? Also is your mom triple negative as well?

[@MarinaBlackford]

4 A/C and 12 taxol the first time I had cancer. 15 taxol and carboplatin the second time I had cancer. Triple negative each time for me. Triple negative the 1st two times my mom had cancer and 1 positive hormone this last time (ER or HER2.?)

[@lin2thez341]

@@MarinaBlackford Thanks. I'm triple neg too. I did 4 rounds each of AC/TC. I feel like i read somewhere that can't AC portion twice. Maybe too toxic?

[@MarinaBlackford]

Yes, I was told that they wouldn’t do A/C again since I already did it. Not sure why exactly. I’ll be asking though.

[@cvstadium3164]

Have u got any vitamins during your chemo period

[@MarinaBlackford]

I only took a women’s multivitamin. My oncology team did not want me to take a lot of supplements during chemo so it wouldn’t interfere with the effectiveness of the chemo. Talk to your oncologist if you want to start any new vitamins or supplements.

[@cvstadium3164]

Thanks my dear sister

[@cvstadium3164]

Hi sister, I'm prasangi from sri lanka .i"m 44 years old. I want to say my english knowledge is very poor. So if i have any mistake please forgive me.ok. this is my cancer story. I was diagnosed breast cancer in 2021.8.19. I did surgery on 2021.9.7. My one limp node positive . After surgery i did ct scan and bone scan. My ct scan result negative. But my bone scan was positive . Then i did breast mri. It was negative. After that my doctor offer me act chemo 8 cycles . I finished my ac chemo 2021.12.31 and got my first taxol treatment today.

[@MarinaBlackford]

I hope you’re cancer free after your chemo!

[@cvstadium3164]

Hmm

[@ButFirstCoffeeSuzyOberholtz]

I just got diagnosed a 3rd time

[@MarinaBlackford]

That is heart breaking. I pray you heal! My mom has been there too. One day at at time til you heal ❤️

[@arjungosavi7165]

what type of cancer you have relpased with !! i mean hamaetlogicaly which cancer cell ?

[@MarinaBlackford]

Another breast cancer tumor.

[@edithpleasants3243]

Please add subtitles.

[@MarinaBlackford]

I will look into this! Mine plays subtitles automatic when it’s on silence. ?

[@shaheerabbas2016]

Whats the reason you found to cancer re appear ?

[@MarinaBlackford]

I don’t know why cancer re appeared. I try to eat well and live balanced in exercise and stress management. BRCA1 is a big risk factor for me.

[@sophillbutler8576]

Did you have fertility treatments to have your son after your first diagnosis?

[@MarinaBlackford]

Hi, I did not have fertility treatment. I had Zoladex injections during chemo after my first diagnosis. This put me in a forced menopause and protected my ovaries so I could get pregnant.

[@sophillbutler8576]

@@MarinaBlackford thanks!! This is great news. So you didn’t freeze your eggs? With chemo, did you notice that you felt worse as treatments progressed?