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Maintenance Chemotherapy for the rest of my life?

Esophageal Cancer | Last Active: Dec 5 12:01pm | Replies (17)

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@bryan18603

I have not asked for a break.
What amount of time do people usually ask for?

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Replies to "I have not asked for a break. What amount of time do people usually ask for?"

@bryan18603, the length of a chemo vacation is worthy of a discussion with your oncologist as there are several factors to consider, including your personal preferences. I would start with a list of questions. Let me get you started.

- If side effects become untolerable or I have a special event coming up, could I take a chemo vacation?
- What are the risks and benefits of taking a break?
- What monitoring would you do while I'm on a break?
- What would indicate I should start chemo again?

Then, I would share with the oncologist why you'd like a pause in treatment. Here are some examples to give you an idea:
XX ____ side effect lowers my quality of life. I find it hard to _____. I miss being able to ______.
or
My daughter is getting married in June. Would it be possible to skip a chemo session so I can be free of side effects for the celebration?

What do you think?