PacNW or anyone else close to starting rads in 2013?

I am but not sure when yet. I might go back on chemo first.

i had my scan on Monday.  (it was so much nicer than the breast MRI!)   got my "Tattoos".  I don't know what I was expecting, but I have freckles larger than these dots! I joined the phase lll study. I had a 50/50 chance of doing the 3 week rad. therapy but the computer put me in the standard 6 week group. (Bummer!)  I'm waiting for them to put my plan together, then they'll call to schedule my start date/time.  Def. no sense of urgency on their part.  More hurry up and wait for me.  I am glad they're waiting to start my Tamoxifen until after rads are done though.  I've been reading other posts from some women who are really weepy  from the Tamoxifen.  Really?  Aren't there enough side effects from Tamoxifen?  Isn't this journey emotional enough?  Sorry, my sarcasm is showing!  Did you find out about the Calypso system? Is it a different kind of machine?

I was a school bus driver before I retired. I wouldn't dare not get one being around all those kids. So before I started chemo I asked MO about it, he said NO!



Now I'm worried that after all I've been through, to catch the flu would be awful. Chemo really lowered my rest stance, had 3-4 infections. I don't think rads do that.



I start rads in a week or so.

I got my flu shot the day I went in for my clinical breast exam after I felt a lump (which turned out to be fibrous tissue and my doctor found this tiny lump in the other breast which turned out to be cancer!)  I substitute teach, so I too, always get the shot.  I've never been sick from a flu shot.  I am paranoid about this year's flu, so I'm turning down sub positions because our school district is just now getting hit.  People recieving Chemo are obviously considered immunocompromised and I wondered about those getting rads.  When you are receiving rads you are considered immunocompromised. The American Cancer Society website suggests cancer patients-no matter when you had cancer- get the inactivated vaccine in October/November and their family members be vaccinated as well.  There are anti-viral medicines that you can take within one or two days of coming down with the flu if you do get it, but you need to call your doctor right away so you can start it.  It says cancer patients and survivors are at greater risk for having serious problems if they get the flu, even if they are cancer free now.  If you didn't get vaccinated this year, remember those anti-virals that can help if you do happen to get the flu. Everyone's situation is a little different, so you should check with your doctor before getting the flu vaccine.  Good luck, and don't forget your hand sanitizer!!:)

I might be starting radiation in mid-February.

I hope I don't get to much irritation on the side of breast and under arm. I'm still sore and tender from SLN removal. Anyone else having this issue? Is there anything to do for it? I'm supposed to wear a bra almost 24/7 but it is so annoying!!

I know I'm only 3 weeks out of surgery but between the infection in my tummy incision and the irritation I'm so uncomfortable.... This is worse than chemo SE!!!!

I don't think you'll have any problems the first week or two.  I'm just into my second week with no SEs.  The friends I've talked to generally agree that what problems there are usually come later, but some weren't bothered by it much.  It seems to help if you continue exercising, use lots of cream, and eat more protein.  Congrats on your book, and good luck with your treatment.

I'm starting accelerated hypofractionated radiation on March 11,2013. My RO would not have suggested it but I did alot of homework and felt this was best. More per day(2.65gys) but less overall (42.5gys instead of 50gys & a boost). Done in 16 days. The studies 12 years out all say as good or sometimes better for cosmetic results, and as good at prevention. I knew I couldn't handle 61/2 weeks-I would have cut and run at the first sign of anything bad. 3 weeks I can be brave for. Please ladies, at least bring this up. They are doing them according to new guidelines, but ARE NOT OFFERING THEM unless the patient asks. ALOT less side effects during treatment. God bless and good luck to all of us! BTW, I'm stage 2A lobular invasive, er+pr+her-, no nodes,clean margins TWICE, and post menapausal.

andy7, I think your treatment will become the standard in a few years.  I joined the national study but unfortunately was put into the regular treatment group.  Had 15/31 yesterday and am holding up okay so far.  My breast is red and my chest is itchy.  I've had very minor peeling around my nipple area.  I'm using Aloe and Aveeno.

Robin, what is the breath hold technique?

Carolyn, how are your treatments going?  (I was kind of surprised at how easy and smooth the whole treatment was my first time. I guess i imagined visible beams or something. My DH laughed at that!)

Good luck ladies! ((Hugs))

Robin - thank you for explaining the breath hold technique.  The RO explained they may have to use this techique depending on the heart placement. I see you have the left breast involvement as well.  My measurements are scheduled for February 26th so I will learn more after the assessment.  Very helpful.

My RO warned that some of the SE may come after the rads are finished. Thanks for the encouragement.

Are any of you wearing special bras for radiation? If so where did you find them?