Hello, I have been thinking about you and about how things are going. Except for the few issues you mentioned, it sounds as though you are tolerating the treatment very well so far. I am glad you have a good medical team, and have such wonderful support. It's interesting that you are having a problem with the jaw/throat spasms. I have not read or heard that Xeloda causes those problems as a side effect, but I suppose everyone is different. Is your throat closing up when this happens? I do hope those symptoms subside soon, and that you don't experience more discomfort. I will be starting in another week, but the chemo nurse called me to go over the instructions. When I mentioned my anxiety about side effects, she said in a very positive tone that I would be fine and shouldn't have any problems. I will take Ondansetron 4mg before I eat breakfast to avoid getting nausea. Wait about 20-30 minutes and have breakfast, and then take the Xeloda (three 500mg tablets right after eating). I am to follow this routine before dinner, and the days that follow, but if I need to take more Ondansetron before that time, I can take it 4 hours apart. I have taken Ondansetron in the past and other medical professionals have said every 4 hours is fine, and even in some cases, patients have been given 8mg at one time for severe issues, but I would not recommend this to anyone with out speaking to their doctor. The anti sickness pills you are speaking of may be the Ondansetron (or known as Zofran). There are other anti nausea medicines that can be given if a patient does not respond to the Ondansetron. I like your idea about the exercise, and I would think that helps with any fatigue one may experience during this treatment. I think I will also try that, even if it means just walking in the inside hallway of my apartment building. I do have two chihuahua mixes that I love dearly, and I take them out several times a day, but it can be difficult during the winter, especially if you have bad weather. They don't even like to be out for very long. I appreciate your sharing information about your journey so far, and I will be in touch again once I start my treatment next week. Meanwhile, I hope you and your family have a lovely and safe holiday season, and by all means, stay warm.

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