Probably the most asked question - what is it like, how does it feel, how does it make you feel?
First - I am so totally grateful that I did NOT have to do chemo that Radiation seems like a breeze. I know it is much bigger than I am letting it be - but for right now - that works for me.
Radiation doesn't hurt - it's like getting an X-ray. I had a big appointment before I started when I got the tatoo marks for levelling me on the table etc. They made a "pillow" just for me. I lay down put my arms above me head and formed a pillow to my body. Now everyday I go in, I lay down on the table with MY pillow. 3-4 Technicians pull my cotton gown off of me and make sure I am in the correct position to be in for treatment.
Just when I think I am going to "freak out" at the thought of having radiation bolted into me - it's over! I am usually in and out in about 20 minutes with the actual "treatment" being about 4-5 minutes. They treat me from 4 different angles. I'm just starting to feel a little "burned" on my upper back shoulder - but my skin is doing fine right now. Monday through Friday - every day at 2:15 is starting to get old - but that may be my own control issues trying to creep in.
Monday is the day they like you to talk to the Nutrionist after treatment.
Tuesday is a normal day and I am in and out.
Wednesday is x-ray day so they can make sure I am always being zapped in the right spots - you know, if they are off a little bit - the radiation could get my heart or lung, so this is important to always be checking my position/marks because of the swelling etc.
Thursday is the day they like you to visit with the "Cancer Counselor" - of boy! Week one she tried to sell me on "cancer support groups" and she had no idea what she was getting in me. Week 2 I blew her off and said I was FINE - those of you in 12=step programs know what that means. Week three I actually spent time talking with Wendy the Social Worker and she is very nice - I'm just not ready to do a "group thing". I do still see my own counselor - so please no comments on how important therapy is - I get that.
Friday is Dr. day. After treatment I actually see Dr. Panwella and she checks me out and my skin etc. It is nice to have some time with just her.
This coming week they are adding Physical Therpay to my schedule and then Accupuncture. My life has become a series of appointments!
This whole process is more of an emotional journey for me than a physical one right now. I am loving my yoga classes and some great mediation CD's from a new friend specifically for relaxation and one for Radiation therapy.
I feel like I'm doing right what I suppose to do. 36 days of Lent remain and once again this year, I find myself on this journey of 40 days REALLY REALLY walking with Jesus and trying to understand his pain.
Today, Life is good!
Love, June
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Monday, February 1, 2010
Hip Hip Hooray - NO Chemo Today!
Greg, Mom and I Met with Oncologist - Dr. Seligman. He was so happy to tell me that my Oncotype DX Test results came back with good news. My scores were in mid-range but reflected that chemo was not needed and I would not gain any benefit from chemo- so I can move right on to Radiation Therapy.
He compares cancer to cats - some have a pussy cat and some have a tiger. I am so lucky to have the pussy cat! He is a unique man - strange but talented - spent a LOT of my appointment flirting with my mom! And I found out he has no tatoos -but his father did and so does his daughter. He likes Janice Joplin and he really likes Bob Dylans song "up north girl" but prefers Johnny Cash singing it. Said insanity skips a generation in his family. I don't need to see him again for 6 months - I told him he would miss me waiting that long and he totally agreed.
I start Radiation Therapy tomorrow morning (2/2/10). I will go everyday Monday through Friday for 6-1/2 weeks. I am only 1 mile from the Radiation clinic -so I am going to walk. I don't know what time my daily appointment will be - but tomorrow that will get set up.
After Radiation I will be on Tamoxifan for 5 years unless I go through menapouse during that time and he will change the drug. I asked how I will know when/if that happens and he told me to ask my mother!
Oh well - I am grateful for answered prayers. Amazing what happens when you REALLY give it to God. Just when I decide to follow the dr I get great news! I love life and even being reminded that I am not in charge.
He compares cancer to cats - some have a pussy cat and some have a tiger. I am so lucky to have the pussy cat! He is a unique man - strange but talented - spent a LOT of my appointment flirting with my mom! And I found out he has no tatoos -but his father did and so does his daughter. He likes Janice Joplin and he really likes Bob Dylans song "up north girl" but prefers Johnny Cash singing it. Said insanity skips a generation in his family. I don't need to see him again for 6 months - I told him he would miss me waiting that long and he totally agreed.
I start Radiation Therapy tomorrow morning (2/2/10). I will go everyday Monday through Friday for 6-1/2 weeks. I am only 1 mile from the Radiation clinic -so I am going to walk. I don't know what time my daily appointment will be - but tomorrow that will get set up.
After Radiation I will be on Tamoxifan for 5 years unless I go through menapouse during that time and he will change the drug. I asked how I will know when/if that happens and he told me to ask my mother!
Oh well - I am grateful for answered prayers. Amazing what happens when you REALLY give it to God. Just when I decide to follow the dr I get great news! I love life and even being reminded that I am not in charge.
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