Yesterday I had my planning and mapping day for radiotherapy. All went smoothly (filled in a heap more paperwork) and apparently I was an easy patient for lining up everything. They drew all over me with something blue, lots of measuring and double checking, gave me five pinprick tattoos (which didn't hurt too much but was more like having five small needles on my chest and down my side from under my arm) and then traced it all onto what looked like a piece of plastic. It was all lined up with green laser lights. I still have blue lines all over me and ink where one of the guys smeared the tattoos to check they were ok. I had a CT scan after all this to see how strong the radiotherapy will be that they give me. It depends on your body shape and size etc.
I am not allowed to rub at the tattoos in the shower (just allow the water to run over them) so for now the blue lines will have to wear off as I can't risk the tattoos wearing away. Looked a little weird shopping yesterday when it looked like I had drawn all over the top of my chest lol.
I am hoping to go through radio with the least amount of side effects (just like anyone I suppose). The doctor told me to expect some redness after about 2.5 to 3 weeks with my type of skin and about halfway the tiredness will kickin.
I start radio on 16th January. My first appointment is at eleven and they will give me the rest of the six weeks times on the day. I will have five weeks of standard radio and then a week of boost to the tumour area. They won't all be at the same time but should be around that time. They were very considerate because I have kids who need to be met off of school buses etc and also the distance I have to travel to get home in time.
Finished off the day with a bbq at my inlaws and with Wendy, Daryl and little Megan (who is a real toddler now and getting cheekier by the day).She is so cute.
4 comments:
Your strength amazes me Dawn, the way you write about your experiences is just so wonderful. I truly hope that you have very few side effects from the radiotherapy also. I'm glad that they are able to help you out with appointment times etc because of the kids and travelling, I hope that it doesn't get too much for you - I'm here if you ever need me, don't hesitate to ask :-) I hope that you know how truly special you are Dawn, because each time I visit your blog, I am astonished by your strength, you really are a fantastic soul.
Thats my Dawn, just keep taking those baby steps.
I can always come down and help out if you need me.
You are nearly there, and you will come out at the other side so much stronger and you will be well again.
I think of you every day, so strong so brave.
Love you lots .
Dawn, I would like to send you my very best wishes for your radiation treatment. I greatly admire your strength of spirit, you are such an inspiration.
Love Coby
sending our love to you ,you are such an amazing person it was lovely to speak to you at xmas time love to yoy xxxx
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