what to expect

BarbaraR0305

I'm going to be starting radiation therapy w/in the next week.

5 days a week for 6 weeks, to sterilize chest wall (after mastectomy).  

Will I be able to function during this time? like go to work?

Please advise.

BarbaraA

Everyone responds differently to treatment but for me, I worked the entire time. Near the end of tx, I was very fatigued so I would take a catnap here or there and made sure to get at least 9 hours sleep. It was very doable for me.

jw523

I was able to work the whole time.  I own a small shop and was able to work full time at the holidays without a problem.  I really cut out any extra activities (holiday parties and get togethers) during that time and just tried to focus on really taking care of myself and getting lots of rest.  Saying "no" was hard but I just didn't want to stretch myself too much.  Everyone is different and it depends on some factors like age and how active you are before you start treatment. It's very manageable for most people.

geewhiz

Me too, I maintained a normal schedule. I booked the first appointment of the day so I was in and out of there!

catwood

Barbara: Radiation is a walk in the park compared to chemo-Today is treatment number 28 out of 30 for me. Had none of the side effects that were offered up for my selection. Did not get fatigued and maintained a normal schedule (BUT as a business owner used this as an excuse to take some time for myself) Did get some skin breakdown this morning-(woke up with it) and have been using nothing other than aloe vera gel directly from the plant. It was reminded to me to not use anything with anti-oxidents (Vit. e,c,a, etc.) no creams. It takes more time to get there and get dressed than the treatment. You're gold.