What Should I Ask?

TonLee

What Should I Ask?

TonLee

I haven't had radiation (yet).

I haven't done tons of research on it.

Monday a RO is coming to our BC Group to speak, and we can ask anything.

Where do I start?  My RO wants to do 8 weeks of Rads, whole breast and axilla.

Just finished chemo last week (except for Herceptin).

I'd like to ask about statistics that show why Rads is necessary after chemo....

Any suggestions???

thenewme

Hi TonLee

Ask about thyroid issues related to radiation, and whether any extra precautions may be warranted to protect the thyroid.  I've seen lots of concerns about it, but haven't looked into it much since I've already finished radiation.

I don't know whether you've had or are planning any reconstruction, but ask for specific information and risks of radiation for your particular kind of reconstruction, if applicable.

Ask about the long-term risks of radiation. My plastic surgeon calls it "the gift that keeps on giving," and it turns out that I am having some post-rads issues now, so definitely make sure you understand the risks versus benefits for your specific situation.  For my situation it was a no-brainer to have the rads, despite the complications I'm having now.  For others, the decision is less clear for a variety of reasons.

Best of luck!  Radiation was MUCH easier on me physically (at the time) than chemo, and I hope it's the same for you!  

TonLee

Thenewme,

Thanks.  Those are good questions and I will ask.

I just had revision surgery today on my MX.  I figure it will take about 4-5 weeks for that to heal enough for a fill, and the fills will likely spread over 8 weeks...at that rate I won't start Rads for 3-4 months.  My RO will fight me on it...but I have read enough to understand in my case I want to be fully expanded before Rads.

I didn't get a clear margin on the skin side but if cancer is still there and growing I should be able to see that right away (according to PS and Onc). 

Guess I'll see what all he says. 

I am def gonna ask about protecting my thyroid...I am already hypothyroid and can't afford to lose any more thyroid function!

TonLee