This topic is about navigating chemotherapy options when you have an ileostomy, especially after being diagnosed with breast cancer. The person in question has been through colon cancer and hernia repairs and is now considering two chemotherapy options. They are looking for advice on how these treatments might affect their stoma and how to manage any side effects. Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. Chemotherapy Options:
- One option is standard IV chemotherapy every three weeks, which is described as very strong and involves 4 to 6 cycles.
- The other option is Insulin-Potentiated Therapy (IPT), which involves chemotherapy twice a week for a month. This method uses glucose to help cancer cells absorb the drugs more effectively.

2. Side Effects with a Stoma:
- Most people did not experience stoma-specific issues during chemotherapy, and their output patterns remained stable.
- Diarrhea can be more challenging with an ostomy, so if one treatment is less likely to cause it, that might be a deciding factor.
- Nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy can be easier to handle with a drainable pouch.

3. Managing Diarrhea and Output:
- Over-the-counter Imodium (loperamide) is often effective for managing diarrhea. It's important to learn the safe dosage for you.
- Using an open-ended or drainable pouch system can make frequent emptying easier and less messy.

4. General Chemotherapy Experiences:
- Common side effects include hair thinning or loss, soft nails, fatigue, and nausea, though the severity can vary.
- Some people found that medicinal marijuana helped with appetite and nausea after infusions.
- It's possible to start with a lower dose of chemotherapy and increase it gradually; a second opinion might offer gentler options.

5. Choosing Between Regimens:
- The main consideration should be which treatment your oncology team believes will be most effective against the cancer. Stoma-related issues are generally manageable.
- Ask about the specific drugs used in each protocol and their likelihood of causing diarrhea or severe nausea.

6. Insurance and Financial Assistance:
- If you've been out of work for 12 months, you might qualify for Social Security Disability. It's a good idea to apply online as soon as possible.
- Local or national Cancer Society offices often have patient navigators who can help with Medicaid appeals, finding grants, or setting up hospital charity care.