Spring 2015 Radiation Sisters

readytorock

Thanks, Mombie -

I love my treatment place. I will ask tomorrow!

MombieZombie

Hopeful, I believe you. My friend had immediate skin problems and pain with her first boost. What she showed me scared me to death!! I'm trying really hard not to assume I will have the same trouble. Another gal at this place isn't having such trouble. So I guess I have a 50/50 chance. Ugh. lol

CassieCat

When they planned for my boosts, they did some more drawing on me but it didn't take nearly as long as the initial planning. It happened before or after a treatment. For me, since I had an MX, the boost is focused on the scar tissue, since cancer cells could linger there, get trapped, etc. as far as I understand. They attach something to the normal radiation machine and yes, it comes much closer to my skin. For me, though, the treatment is pretty fast as there's just one angle. It's about 25 seconds or so and then it's done. I don't know about the dosage but I think the radiation itself is somehow different. I do know that the area around my scar got pink in a hurry, after just those 5 boosts.

Four more regular rads and 2 more boosts for me...1 week from today and I should be done!

MombieZombie

Thanks for sharing CassieCat. That helps. Are you left side treatment like me? Do you have to hold your breath for your boosts? They told me I will still need to hold my breath for mine.

LM68

I completed my 2nd of 30 days of rads today. Anyone else experience anxiety during rads? I know it's quick, not painful, etc. but I can't seem to relax about it. Yesterday and today I took .25 mg of Xanax before my appt. That's a pretty small dosage but seems to just take the edge off. I feel like I might run out of the room screaming without it ;-). I have concerns about taking it though everyday for the next 28 treatments. Part of me says well if it gets me through just do it and then the other part tells me to get a grip! Does anyone else need to take anything? I've been an anxious mess over every medical appt since my dx in January.

shelleym1

yes I was extremely anxious at the beginning. I'm on day 8 now and the anxiety is gone. I have more anxiety about the redness and swelling. Anyone have a walk in freezer I can sleep in? lol

MombieZombie

LM68--You are not alone on the anxiety. I have struggled hard with this. It triggers PTSD for me. I'm sorry you are having troubles too. I am not taking anything because of all I need to do each day outside of treatment, but this has been the hardest thing I've had to do in a long time. My heart goes out to you.

Shelley--It's not a walk-in, but I have a pretty big freezer we could try to stuff you in! LOL Come on over!

CassieCat

LM, I had anxiety early on but got past it. I try really hard to relax into the position, close my eyes and let go. It got easier as the days passed.

I am left-sided, and they looked at breath holding for me during the set-up, but ultimately it wasn't beneficial. I'll just trust that my heart is being protected as best it can be. I do have faith in my RO and know that he cares about my overall well-being.

LM68

Thank you for the responses. It gives me hope that things will get easier. I'm lying in the prone position during my treatments. Anyone else in that position? I've read that it's good to be in that position. Anyone know why?

MombieZombie

LM--I'm not in that position, but I hear it is supposed to be safer for heart and lungs.

Jesika63

hi everyone: I had my second boost of of 8. Today i am a bit more pink and tender, Have been rotating aloe with cream. The good part is that the rest of the breast is not bothering me. Its a lot faster now. I did have new marking for the boost. I just go on the table thinking of the few days i have to go and try to keep my mind clear of everything else. Yea, suffer major panic attacks at times but have been able to do this treatment without them. I do take small dose of xanax. Next week i will cross the finish line yay, I am so happy i found this support group. it has been of great help and i have leaned so much from everyone here. Most of all i am not alone. Together we can do this. One by one we will reach the end of this treatment. Just hang in there.

Wow freezer sounds so good. Remember there are fans and air conditioning for those who live in warm areas. Just had a question-- what kind of soap do you use for showing (i never face the showe becauase it hurts) I have been using Cetaphil ( for very sensitive skin) i think i want to try something else. hugs to all

MombieZombie

Jesika--I have sensitive skin too. I have been using Aveeno for sensitive skin. I like it so far. I have broken, raw and weeping areas. For me, it doesn't sting or hurt and seems to help moisturize. So far I can face the shower because I don't have quite enough water pressure in my showerhead. Thanks for the info on your boosts. I'm so excited for you that you are close to done! I think you and I finish the same day. April 2?

DJCRI

Hi everyone -- I've been following this thread for a while and really appreciate all the helpful information and advice.  Today was my big day with1st of 30 treatments done.  It was okay, I got a little anxious, don't like the equipment being too close and don't like having to hold still in the room by myself.  To help with panicky feelings today, I focused on my breath,  tried to slow it down and told myself to get to another 10 breaths and usually by then the techs (there were 3) were back in the room, adjusting for the next shot of radiation.   It took about 40 minutes total today, hopefully things will go a little quicker tomorrow.  I've been told that once you get set up, it becomes more of a routine.  If I know what to expect I can usually relax a bit more.  But I can relate to everyone's struggle with trying to stay calm.

After the treatment I went shopping (again) for stretchy camisoles/tank tops.  Hard to find the right amount of stretch, fit and comfort.  Did find a couple more things that could work.   Even after this first treatment I felt a mild warmth/burning (very fair skin).  But I used maiderm and that was very cool and soothing.  Glad I bought it ahead of time -- did not get to talk to the  nurse today  about product recommendations.  At least the RO saw me today to go over the plan.  I hadn't seen her since before my lumpectomy on 2/5.    

So this part of the journey is just starting.  Congratulations to everyone who is in the home stretch!  Thank you for sharing, give us newbies hope, encouragement and a heads up on what's ahead.  Good luck to everyone starting and moving along.  I am thankful to have others to share stories with on the journey ahead.

MombieZombie

DJCRl--Welcome to the group! Hurray for you--day one complete. The sooner begun, the sooner you're done. I'm sorry you feel anxious. I'm right there with you. Good luck as you go along.

allicat1214

Today is the day I get the results of the Oncotype test. I'm scared and nervous....not sure how I'm going to make it until 2:15 this afternoon. I know y'all will understand when I say that I'm hoping to join everyone here soon and get started on my 33 rad sessions. Hoping and praying it won't be delayed further by needing chemo.

But I've decided to throw everything I can against this cancer be it chemo, radiation, arimidex, and natural efforts such as exercise, eating clean, eliminating toxic chemicals, etc.

I have felt in limbo all this time and I'm just ready to know what the treatment plan will be so I can get started.

Thanks again to all of you who have shared your stories so the newbies will feel a bit more prepared!

readytorock

allicat1214 - hoping for a low oncotype score for you!

Do you and your oncologist have plans if you fall in the intermediate range?  I wish that I had prepared for that possiblity before I got the score!

MombieZombie

Allicat--I'll be thinking of you today. Hope the numbers are the best possible!

CassieCat

DJCRI, the sessions do get much faster. I can be in and out in 10-15 minutes, including time to change clothes. Good luck to you.

Allicat, good luck to you as well as you await your news. I'm throwing everything I can at the cancer I had too.

I'm down to 5 rads remaining...

allicat1214

Oh gosh, no readytorock..... I didn't even think about that. Thanks for the tip. I'll do a little research this morning about that possibility....

zjrosenthal

Today I have #9 of 30 rads. So far no bad effects. The 2 techs I have are very precise in their positioning and I feel so much more comfortable than having just one. Also the later afternoon schedule works well. I was even able to stop on the way back yesterday and see my little great granddaughter Valentina. She is getting so big, 3 months old already. Love, Jean

MombieZombie

Jean--Adorable! That little cutie would make any day better. Glad you're doing well.

LM68

DJCRI, I'm right there with you. I completed my 3rd treatment today and get really anxious when I get there. It does get much quicker...my first day was about 30 minutes, then 20 and today was about 10 minutes. I hope the rest are all 10 minutes...that should help with anxiety! I've been taking a small dose of Xanax but I like your breathing technique. Honestly, the Xanax isn't doing much for me as I feel panicky when I first get there. As I said to my husband on day 1..."I have to start this in order for it to end"....Good Luck!

kathy7

I hope your results are everything you prayed for!

kathy7

I have five more treatments of 28 prescribed.  I just became uncomfortable about 8 treatments ago.  It is like a sunburn to me at this point and I can manage.  I have read so much information about the intensity and the damage caused, it is hard to estimate where I will fit in.   I am a little perturbed with my physician and whomever the person I see right before the doctor.  they ask the same question, how are your feeling?

and make the same statements, oh its getting worse, how many times are you putting on lotion?  If I say three she says, oh you should be putting on four.  If I say four, they say oh you should be putting on five.  She does not offer any prescribed lotions?  DO I need?  I guess not and when I asked the week before last if there is something to combat fatigue, I was told that others typically don't need anything.  so I guess I am not typical.  it is frustrating when dr asks you questions, but really does not give you warmth or solutions.  I am so done with all of this intrusion.

 

Sorry, I felt like whining - I'm done

ElaineTherese

kathy7, I was prescribed a lotion, RadiaPlex. It costs about $25 a tube. Has it helped prevent damage? No, I was pink after my first week! My radiation therapist says it's more important for skin repair than for damage prevention. I use it at least three times a day, but RO says you can't overdose on the stuff, so I can put it on as many times as I want.

Yes, radiation is a bit bizarre. You lie on this table while they poke and prod you like a piece of meat! But, at least it's quick. During chemo, I'd be at the infusion center for 4 -- 5 hours some days.

MombieZombie

kathy--I feel like you on all of those levels. Five left for me too. So ready to be done. Today they had some kind of circular fan system running in the room I froze to death and was epsecially reminded of my nakedness being viewed by whomever as the fan blew gusts of air on my skin from every direction. I asked one of the techs about it and she just shrugged and said, "Oh, I guess there is some air blowing today." Nice.

Last night I had nightmares and flashbacks all night long. I woke up screaming. Anxiety is getting worse. All of my new friends at the treatment center are done, so I'm alone now. I barely made it through today and ended up crying in a corner of my dressing room when I was done with treatment. I couldn't hold it in any longer. Not sure how I'm going to make it tomorrow. Somebody please tell me that I have to go.

I hope everyone else is having a better day today. I will say that we are having some beautiful sunshine this afternoon. I think some quiet time on my deck is in order. Love to all. Thanks for being in this thread and going through it with me.

Curlykat

What are you all doing about your anxiety? I have been diagnosed with General Anxiety Disorder, but it doesn't interfere too much. I've been thru a lot over the years, especially the past 2, and have managed very well. I teach yoga and work out, and take my clonazepam as needed. But being an advocate for my parents has taught, or maybe reinforced, that I will seek out any and all resources necessary. I work with support groups as part of my job, so I already know, and have spoken with, our breast health coordinator. I practiced some breathing techniques while in pre-op yesterday. Last night, as I fell asleep, I listened to a meditation DVD for healing. For me, knowledge is power, so this place has been a fantastic resource for me.

But what have you all been doing to help with the stress?

CD: http://www.shakticom.org/befre_and_after_surgery_p/a421.htm

Jesika63

Mombie-, there are a few of us finishing up next week. I also have 5 boost left. I find that the boost have been much easier (smaller are to take care of) I still have no open wounds but have a red hot sun-burn. I will try using the Aveeno and yes my last one is April Second. Mombie please don' feel so alone. Even though your treatment friends are gone we are all still here. We have come this far so look forward to the finish line. Once i am positioned, i close my eyes and think of everything i want to do when i am done (in 5 more days) before i can think of the third thing i am all finished. You can do it.

Kathy- If you feel you need a stronger cream, let them know. Tell them how you feel. All they have to do is prescribe it. Don't let them do all the talking. They are not the ones on the table getting the treatment. Besides you are paying for every visit so you have the right to ask for what you need. Don't leave the room without telling them what you want. If you feel they are not letting you talk, then write in on a paper and let them read it. Times goes by fast. So everyone hang in there.

Jesika63

Jean- glad you are feeling better and enjoying your beautiful baby. She is lovely.

zjrosenthal

Mommie, you can do this. Go ahead and cry if you need to. I don't think any of us go through this journey without some tears. Try to focus on why you are doing this. Radiation is destroying the DNA in any stray cancer cells still hanging around so they can't divide and replicate. They die off, hence no local reoccurance. This is saving your life girl. One day at a time and soon you will be done. For me tomorrow is week 2 down....4 weeks to go. Love, Jean