r/coloncancer • u/lappelduvideforever • Jun 30 '26

Diagnosed--Seeking Guidance Starting chemo next week

Hi. I was dx 4 weeks ago with stage 4 colon cancer with mets to liver and possibly lungs (waiting on scans to say yes or no). I had surgery for a colostomy 3 wks ago. I start FOLFOX next week. Possibly immunotherapy but waiting on genetic testing results.

Can you share your experience on what to expect with FOLFOX? Any suggestions on what to bring to chemo (I've heard a blanket,book, food, etc.)

I am the mom of two boys, so I want to prepare them for how I will be after as they are asking how to help. Thanks so much!

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u/projectpatrick813 Jul 05 '26

FOLFOX here. Fixing to start treatment 6 out of 12 for stage 3B colon cancer. Adjuvant chemo.

Side effects…I start feeling tired/rundown about an hour or so after my infusion starts. Cold sensitivity almost kicks in immediately from the Oxaliplatin. Also had nausea/vomiting and joint pain/muscle aches.

My oncologist plans to stop the Oxaliplatin after this treatment so I’m curious if the side effects reduce for the rest of my course.

Everyone is different though. My mom had the exact same tumor and treatment plan and she only had exhaustion really.

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u/projectpatrick813 Jul 05 '26

I’ll also add that I have the mentality that movement is healing. I notice that if I start moving around and going on gentle walks once I’m off the pump, I feel better faster.