Maryanne,
Glad to hear Joel finished his chemo, but sorry about the shingles. I have posted a few posts about this recently. Mike had shingles the beginning of June. His were on his chest , under his arm and around to his back. The doctor gave him Famvir for it. I will have to say that it got rid of the shingles . He is having an ongoing problem due mental confusion that developed at the time the meds were started , but don't let our story discourage you. Our problems may just be coincidental. Anyhow, in answer to your question, the Famvir did work and we were told the shingles could be brought on by chemotherapy and or steroids. It is the herpes zoster virus (the same as chicken pox) that lies dormant , but can surface when the immune system is in a weakened condition. A person with shingles can give chicken pox to someone that never had them. Hope Joel will soon feel better.
Love and Prayers,
Sue