Winter 2013-2014 Rads

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  • Gubbyann
    Gubbyann Member Posts: 34
    edited February 2014

    Hi Ladies, first off congrats to all who have finished....And for all of you still getting rad, hang in there...I haven't written anything in a long time, but thought I would write now to say I have finished my last rad today, total of 33, 8 were boosts...I was surprised to find that for me, it wasn't that difficult...I have what looks like a bad sunburn, but it doesn't hurt, just tender...And of course I am tired....I will consider myself lucky...When I read what others are going through, I feel for them, and wonder why I had an easy time of it...I guess we are all different....I have a question for any of you out there that is also finished....I saw my RO today and he said that the next mamo will be in 4 months...Then I will know if it worked...When I got home I began to think about it, and I thought to myself, it seems a long time without a mamo...Have any of you had one yet and if not how long did you have to wait??? Thanks....Even though I don't write offen, I read your threads and will continue to read them...For all of you fighting this bad weather, I wish you well...I live in Florida now, but I have not forgotten how bad traveling in snow and ice can be, as if you all don't have enough to think about...Hug to all 

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  • Jmfrankel
    Jmfrankel Member Posts: 86
    edited February 2014

    Roareus...welcome to the winter rads.  Sounds like winter will be extra long for lots of folks.  It is good to see comments from those that are almost done and share experiences with those that are just starting and I believe there are plenty that are starting in late feb.

    Rlsteadman,  sorry to hear about your pain.  Keep looking to the finish line.  You can make it! 

    Everyone driving through the snow be safe.  It sounds like there are a lot of us dealing with the snow.

    To update everyone on my front, I am leaving the hospital today!  Yeah!  Not sure how quickly I'll be able to get back to rads but my platelets were up to 89 today.  Hemoglobin is at 7.8 which might end up taking even longer to bring up.  In the meantime my skin is starting to heal and peel.  The only thing good about this whole thing is my skin is getting a nice break.  Wonder when I finish the last 6 if it will jump right back to the same level of redness or I will see very little.  

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  • SallyS70
    SallyS70 Member Posts: 947
    edited February 2014

    Jm, it's good to hear that you are going home.  I hope your recovery continues to progress smoothly.

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  • Pam358
    Pam358 Member Posts: 294
    edited February 2014

    Gubbyann - my RO said it was best to wait for the mammogram until 6 months following rads, so that's even longer.  He said something about it being more accurate than having it right away.  I can't remember all of the explanation, there was a lot of information that day.

    Jmfrankel - congratulations on being out of the hospital, I hope things continue to go well!

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  • peaches12
    peaches12 Member Posts: 67
    edited February 2014

    Big day today-  28/28!!!!   I received a printed graduation diploma signed by all the nurses and techs who have been so wonderful.  I took my nurse a gift of a Willow Tree angel that she collects, called "Courage", and chocolates for my techs.  Lots of hugs all the way around.  When you start you think the last day will never come, but it does.   I've been so lucky, red but not burned nor blistered at all. They said 10 days to 2 weeks and I'll be out of the woods for any skin problems, so I'll stay on my lubing schedule for several weeks.   A little fatigue and nap in the afternoon this past week, but all in all compared to chemo rads were a breeze.

    I'll check in from time to time to see how everyone is doing.   Stay strong and brave.  

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  • SallyS70
    SallyS70 Member Posts: 947
    edited February 2014

    So happy for you Peaches!

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  • Rlsteadman
    Rlsteadman Member Posts: 76
    edited February 2014

    jmfrankel- Good news you are headed home. Hope you can finish treatment soon. 

    Roads home from rads were a lot better than when we left. Then I had a nice nap. I am a card maker so I am going to make a thank you card tonight to take on my last day. Only 2 days to go!

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  • peaches12
    peaches12 Member Posts: 67
    edited February 2014

    Jm-  I meant to give you a special shoutout of good wishes with all you are going through. Glad you're out of the hospital and now things will look up for you, I'm sure!  

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  • TeamKim
    TeamKim Member Posts: 568
    edited February 2014

    Peaches & Gubbyann -- congrats!!  So glad you got through it -- be radiant!  Pocket party in your honor tonight!!!  Happy dancin!!!  

    Roareus -- Welcome to the ranks of the Winter Radiants!  

    Everyone driving though the storms and snow and ice -- I am praying for your safe transport to and from -- the endless winter is such a pain, like you all need another obstacle to overcome, right?  Take care, and take your time.

    JM -- so glad you are home; home cooking has to beat the hospital for overcoming these things.  Here's hoping your skin sails through those last few treatments when they resume!  (((Hugs)))

    RI -- I have that bruised feeling too -- sounds like Checkers does too -- I thought the 3 day weekend would give my girl a chance to rest up for the last onslaught, but the internal pain has increased, while the spots and the redness has decreased over the weekend.  This afternoon I had some "zingers," the likes of which I haven't felt since the weeks after surgery.  Time to break out the extra strength ibuprofen!  

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  • Sistercoyote2
    Sistercoyote2 Member Posts: 38
    edited February 2014

    My radiation started last Thursday, February 13.  Wasn't sure what to expect or what it would be like.  I had surgery on December 17.  The radiation so far has been no pain at all.  It is inconvenient to have to go everyday (no weekends), but so far it isn't too bad.  I have to go till April 1. They told me no deodorant, no shaving under the arm and can use Aloe gel.   It will be a long six weeks.  I have also had an abnormal pap smear recently, so have to deal with having a colposcopy later this month also.  Also having a liver scan this month.  Hoping that both of those come back normal.  A little worried considering everything else that has happened since November.....

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  • GraceB1
    GraceB1 Member Posts: 213
    edited February 2014

    Is your RO concerned about your weight? The forms I got to fill out before my first visit tomorrow included two pages on my weight and diet. My MO isn't that concerned even though I've lost 40 pounds due to chemo. Still trying to lose another 10 pounds.

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  • Rlsteadman
    Rlsteadman Member Posts: 76
    edited February 2014

    grace- my RO did not want me to lose weight during treatment. She wanted me to stay within a couple of pounds either direction. If you lose or gain to much it can affect the set up for the radiation if your breast changes shape. I am finishing this week and can start my diet.

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  • lonnie713
    lonnie713 Member Posts: 236
    edited February 2014

    Is the weight thing because you had a lumpectomy? I had a mx and have expanders, so that shouldn't apply. I am hoping it doesn't. I gained from the steroids and my plan is to start my diet the day after my mast chemo.

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  • GraceB1
    GraceB1 Member Posts: 213
    edited February 2014

    I had a umx with a TE. It looked like a form that everyone has to fill out and a graph to make showing weight loss or gain.  He asked about food aversions, smell aversions, nausea, diet and a bunch of stuff about how long have you been losing weight, are you happy with your weight and more. I just wasn't sure if there was a radiology reason for all the questions or just his interest. I lost 30 pounds and then gained 19 pounds in water weight and now now have lost that plus a little more. Really not sure how to fill out most of the form. I'm just getting my taste buds back but still have no appetite to speak of. I think my stomach has really shrunk and I don't want to gain back the weight I lost so I'm not forcing myself to eat more than 1400 calories a day.

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  • Oncearunneralwaysarunner
    Oncearunneralwaysarunner Member Posts: 252
    edited February 2014

    My understanding about weight loss is that any weight loss, regardless of location could affect the plans they make for you. I was warned about loosing or gaining more than a couple of pounds because it changes your body's contour, not just your breast, and that could have an impact on how you line up on the machine and therefore affect where the radiation hits. I made sure to stay stable from the time I had my CT scan to my last treatment. My advice is to check with your team since we are all different and each doctor is different too. 

    Speaking of last treatment, I had my last external treatment on Friday. My skin help up pretty well, looks like a bad sunburn and feels like one too. I have a couple of little spots where the skin started to peel and is raw but no oozing. Now if I can only get the itching under control...

    Congrats to all others who wrapped up their treatments lately.

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  • lauriekaiser
    lauriekaiser Member Posts: 8
    edited February 2014

    I have dcis in situ. I've had the lumpectomy and I'm now going through radiation.  The radiation is brutal.  I'm into my second week of radiation and it absolutely drains me.  I have done all the recommendations, good food, exercise, rest.  Does anyone have any others suggestions?  I feel like a failure.  I shouldn't be this tired this early in the treatment.

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  • MinusTwo
    MinusTwo Member Posts: 16,634
    edited February 2014

    Laurie - how long ago was your surgery?  How long did the surgery take?  Maybe you're still recovering from that?  Did you have chemo?  That would have knocked you down even more before you started.  

    Of course you're not a failure.  Everyone is different.  There are no "shoulds".  I have chosen to go w/what my body is telling me - so some days I sleep 12-18 hours.  Some days I'm willing to have lunch w/a friend and other days I just want to be left alone.  Hang in there girl.

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  • Miminiemi
    Miminiemi Member Posts: 340
    edited February 2014

    Hello All - I've been away because I went to stay with a friend close to the treatment center to beat the snow and ice storm.  Tomorrow is my LAST treatment.  Itchy itchy is the word of the day.  But today they told me about the Domeboro stuff and that really does help.  Write down the name so your recall it later in treatment if you are itchy/rashy.  I recall now reading about it somewhere else, but forgot.  Its OTC and not really expensive.  Luck to those of you starting.  

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  • checkers
    checkers Member Posts: 95
    edited February 2014

    I noticed a lot of comments today about weight gain/loss during rads.  I was told the reason they don't want you to lose weight is because your body needs the calories and protein to help heal from the radiation.  I never thought about how it would affect the positioning and contour of your body.

    GubbyAnn and Peaches ~ Congrats!!  WOOT WOOT!!

    GubbyAnn - My SO scheduled a mammo for 2 weeks after I finished rads. My RO said no way and made him push it out at least 3 months. 

    Got my first boost today and while I was getting dressed after, I noticed my tumor scar was starting to peel as is my arm pit.  This is not like a sunburn peel. This stings!  Did the Domeboro soak (felt so good) and really globbed on the aquaphor and covered the peeling areas with gauze so my clothing doesn't rub. 

    Weather around here is crazy! Yesterday we got 8 inches of snow in 4 hours and today it's 40 degrees and sunny! 

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  • Rlsteadman
    Rlsteadman Member Posts: 76
    edited February 2014

    Saw my RO today. Still red and small blisters but do not need do anything besides my RadiaPlex RX. Itching is better but still sore under arm. RO said it is swollen in the armpit but not in my arm.  Tomorrow is my last day! Celebrating by taking my granddaughter and hubby to help me ring the bell. You ring it 3 times on the day of your last treatment.  I will ring it 1 time for  all my BCO  friends!

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  • LizzieK
    LizzieK Member Posts: 67
    edited February 2014

    Sorry I haven't been on in a while, too busy getting stuff done before coming to Boston to start rads today.  My RO suggested the short protocol because I am stage I with no nodes.  I was very interested in getting this over with quickly since I am self employed and need to get back working.

    We got to Boston yesterday, about a 3.5 hour trip. Today was the first day of my short one week partial breast treatment.  Because yesterday was a holiday I will have the last treatment next Monday (nine treatments all together).  Had to be in for the dry run at 7 am and had the first treatment at 8:38 am (they must schedule down to the minute).  Luckily we are staying at the hotel next to the hospital so it's a five minute walk (reduced MGH rate of $95 a night). It went well, my arms started to go to sleep but otherwise no problems.  I was not nervous at all probably since I did radiation treatment in 2011 for throat cancer and knew what to expect.   I went back this afternoon at 3:36 pm for the second treatment.  They apparently do an xray each time before the actual treatment.  I guess given the amount I am getting it's no big deal but does add time to how long you have to stay still.  The whole thing took about 15 minutes but only a couple of minutes was actually getting the radiation.  My tumor was behind my nipple and this evening I noticed my left breast around the nipple felt hot.  The nipple feels slightly irritated.  It surprised me that I would already be feeling the effects. after only two treatments.  I brought some fresh Aloe leaves that I put in the mini frig they provide at the hotel and I put the cold aloe leaves on my breast which felt real good.  I also have been using Calendula cream for the last couple of weeks and put that on after each treatment.

    I will post daily to share my experience with the short treatment.   Wish me luck.

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  • BigDBeatingBigC
    BigDBeatingBigC Member Posts: 292
    edited February 2014

    Congrats, Lana!  I am jumping into that pocket as well, if you don't mind.  I am still WAITING for genetic testing results, was hoping to have them today, but Bracha did not come back yet; and my MO very embarrassed told me my Oncotype was not ordered!  So now I have to wait two weeks for the Onco results -- Bracha could come in anytime, then we will know where I stand finally!  Starting Femara tomorrow!  Hugs to you all!

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  • Jmfrankel
    Jmfrankel Member Posts: 86
    edited February 2014

    GubbyAnn and Peaches,   Congrats on finishing!  Must feel good to be done.

    Lizzie, keep us posted on how your short protocol goes.  Personally I would be a bit scared just with the intentsity of it.  I will be curious how it goes.

    Rlsteadman and Miminiemi,  congrats in advance for tomorrow's big day.  We would have all been finishing the same day had my rads not been interrupted:(. 

    Today I got a call from the rad nurse wanting me to start rads back up today!  I just got out of the frickin hospital yesterday,  I am still contagious for 5 more days, and oh I have about another 7-8 lbs of water weight to lose since they pumped me up with steroids and IV fluids (20 lbs worth)....do you think all this water might effect the simulation or even how the radiation works?  Jeez...not to mention my hemoglobin is 7.8.  Sorry I had to rant.  I calmly told her that all my water weight may impact the rads and my blood counts were still low and I wasnt doing anything until my MO and RO discussed.  My MO called later and said I wasn't doing anything for another week, including my Herceptin treatment which was scheduled for today too...oops I forgot to cancel.  So I sit and wait.  My skin continues to heal and I continue with my creams.

    To add to the discussion about weight above and whether it is important I would say yes.  I had BMX and TEs and my breasts look different with my added weight.  Very weird...I guess it is more of the fatty tissue (dog ears) part that has changed with the water.

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  • Miminiemi
    Miminiemi Member Posts: 340
    edited February 2014

    Yea to Risteadman and me for the finish!   jmFrankel, so good to hear you advocated for yourself and your logic was perfect!  And Checkers, that Domeboro stuff is soooo good.  My rash was like terrible poison ivy. Today they suggested Domeboro soak.  Improvement to the itch immediately.  Wish they had told me two days earlier.  Just glad to have it now. I'm having lunch with friends to celebrate rad completion.  I'll be watching to see how the daily reports from LizzyK and keeping you close in thoughts.

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  • sbpop
    sbpop Member Posts: 20
    edited February 2014

    Haven't posted for awhile because of waiting to start rads. I guess I'm a certified member now because I am having first treatment tomorrow. Doing the Canadian protocol which is 16 rads. I am so glad to finally start doing something to fight this disease!  I have been taking Letrozole for 2 weeks now. Anyone else just now starting rads? It would be nice to compare notes.

    My 11 year old granddaughter said that at school today, they were asked how they would spend $1000 if they could not spend it on themselves. She said she would give it for cancer research!  :)   I know breast cancer treatment has come a far way in the last years, but I pray for a cure for all of us!  In the meantime, let's fight the good fight and encourage each other. We will survive!

    Love to all!      ♥♥♥

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  • mouse9587
    mouse9587 Member Posts: 53
    edited February 2014

    Today was my 2nd boost, only 5 more to go & I will be done!! (28 whole breast & 7 boosts).  My underarm & under-boob is very red & sore. Glad those parts are done with rads now & can start their final healing.  

    Congrats to those that finished & hang in there for those still going or waiting to start.  You can do it!

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  • RedReading
    RedReading Member Posts: 2,143
    edited February 2014

    Hi SBP. Yay. I came on line feeling a little down and there you were making me feel better. Thanks.

    I start tomorrow morning too. Also the Cdn protocol although I'm getting 15 plus 5 boosts. And I guess I should get that protocol since I'm in Canada, but I've been to Louisville 3 or 4 times now. Went to Bowling Green last year. 

    I've been on Tamoxifen since 28/1. I'm a little nervous but I've got this. There are now 4 of us starting this week. And Sister started last week while Roareus starts next week. 

    We've got this ladies! Let's kick it to the curb! 

    TeamKim pocket party for me and SNB tomorrow! Jump in, but this time could you ladies keep it down a bit? I got weird looks from my doc last time when he kept hearing tiny glasses clinking.


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  • algranna
    algranna Member Posts: 61
    edited February 2014

    I had my 1st radiation treatment yesterday. I also started taking Letrozole last week. So far no side effects from either. My doctor told me to only use lotions with no alcohol. Only found one at Target tonight. It is a baby lotion that is all natural. I was told today that I should not turn red for a couple of weeks.  

    Good luck to everyone and Happy Hump Day!

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  • BigDBeatingBigC
    BigDBeatingBigC Member Posts: 292
    edited February 2014

    Lizzie, good luck with your treatment, I am very interested to learn how it goes for you with the short, intense protocol. And you as well, sbp.  Any SE's yet with Letrozole??

    algranna, I am starting Letrozole tomorrow.  I am still waiting for Oncotype and Bracha test results to determine what additional treatment I will be getting, but rads will be a part of it unless the Bracha test is positive as I guess I would probably go with additional surgery :( -- we will see.  Good luck with your treatments. Let me know how you are getting along with Letrozole.  I will do the same.

    Red, wishing all the best for you as well. 

    Much congratulations Mimi, Peaches, Gubby, and RIsteadman!  Celebrate, ladies!

    Have a beautiful and restful sleep my sisters.

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  • TeamKim
    TeamKim Member Posts: 568
    edited February 2014

    Laurie -- as my mom likes to say, "Don't should on yourself!"  We all handle these things differently.  Your fatigue early in treatment might be left over from surgery, or you might be emotionally exhausted from fighting this thing (we've all been there), or maybe you are coming down with a virus, or maybe your body just doesn't like it and is letting you know.  Go easy on yourself!  (((Hugs)))

    Red -- we will try to get control of the noise in the pockets, but all this toasting to our lovely radiant graduates involves lots of clinking!  

    Everyone starting out this week -- it seems like a long road ahead of you, but give yourself permission to celebrate the milestones, and you will find it passes quickly.  Celebrate the first one behind you, the first week behind you, one third done, one half done, two thirds done, one week to go, etc....  Heck, if you can find something to celebrate in this crazy journey, I say go for it!!

    JM -- good job speaking up and telling them to get on the same page for heavens sake!  We have to be our own advocates in these things, and your instincts were spot on.

    Thanks for the Domedoro tip everyone -- my worthless RO (sorry, but I am really disappointed in him) never suggested that, and I have been itching for a couple of weeks here.  Last night I had a tiny bit of peeling right at the edge of my nipple and it was very tender, but itched too (weird).  I put on Miaderm before bed, covered it with plenty of Aquafor and put a teensy dot of Neosporin on the spot that peeled.  Then I took two extra strength ibuprofen and went to bed hoping for the best.  This morning the sore spot was gone (weird again).  I think I will Google Domedoro and see where I can get some -- I only have 4 more whole breast and 5 boosts to go....  Crossing those days off the calendar.....

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