Hello,

I'm a newbie here and I have a few questions.

My client starts chemo/radiation this week and has arranged for assistants during this period. He has not needed much help for years but has used an assistant on an intermittent basis. Now, with several assistants expected to be coming and going there's a need for a communication center to make sure everyone is on the same page about the tasks to be done and to keep a complete record of my client's care.


1) Does anyone know what effect the chemo/radiation treatments may have on his bladder/bowel program?

2) Does anyone have information or suggestions for coping with the overall side effects of chemo/radiation for a paraplegic?

2) Does anyone have suggestions or sample forms for daily recording of responsibilities and specific tasks?

Thanks,
Sally

I was hoping to receive some tips and advice but so far that hasn't happened. My friend will be having a G-tube installed Monday, Aug 3, 2009 because he won't be able to get nutrition by mouth during the treatment of his thyroid.

Please respond in any way. Thanks.

I don't know how it effects an SCI person but my late wife, who was able bodied had 7 different types of chemo; each having different side effects. The most common is hair loss but it can cause nausea and vomiting plus diarrhea.

I suggest you find out the type of chemo he's having, as there are many different sorts, and each is mixed on the day of treatment for each individual; it doesn't come off the shelf, which is what many people think. If you can find out the name of the chemo, you can easily look up its side effects, which the Dr's should have informed your client about.

As everyone reacts differently to chemo, your client might not have many side effects, but be prepared.

My wife was given a very strong chemo, which she was told had terrible side effects, but she had none. Another chemo called FEC made her very ill, so there's no way of knowing for certain. I'm sorry I cant help very much. Here is a link to a UK cancer back-up advice service; look up chemo and its side effects. http://www.cancerbackup.org.uk/Treatments

Good luck

Mike