The Light at the End of the (Radiation) Tunnel
Today marks my fourth day of radiation. The last two treatments will take place on Monday and then that’s it for me. Radiation will be done. I’m still very tired, but it could just as easily be from not being able to sleep well for a week (because of the catheter) as from the radiation.
One side-effect of this type of radiation is skin irritation, just like the skin irritation experienced by patients who receive standard radiation. In regular radiation, I'm told, the skin irritation feels like a really bad sunburn. As Alison described it, “At first, it’s like getting a bad sunburn, but instead of staying out of the sun, you go the next day for your new sunburn.”
With the MammoSite treatment, of course, the radiation is inside your body. However, the radiation burn travels up through the tissue and eventually comes out as a burn on your skin. My skin above the balloon started to hurt a little bit last night, but I just tried to ignore it. As the day has progressed, however, it has gotten worse and now it does feel like I just spent 8 hours in the sun with no sunscreen, except that only my left breast was exposed to it. And it’s pretty uncomfortable. I’m really glad I don’t have to go back for a couple of days.
My plan this weekend is just to rest, to catch up on Evidence reading and lectures (and I need to start preparing for the final which is coming up in less than two weeks!) and to gear myself up for Monday’s catheter removal, which I am told will hurt.
Because we want to try to fit as many medical procedures as possible into as short a time as possible, however, Randy had a vasectomy today. He will be resting this weekend right along with me. He is currently “elevated” in his recliner with a pack of ice and the remote control at hand. So far he’s feeling okay, but many of you have so generously shared your vasectomy horror stories with him and he’s just hoping that he doesn’t end up in one of them. If nothing else, at least we can catch up on our Netflix cache.
Comments
John's vasectomy was a breeze...for me. There was no horror, just a little discomfort. Just make sure Randy takes it easy. Glad the radiation is almost over. That's a great hurdle to put behind you.
Posted by: Alison | July 13, 2007 04:28 PM
My husband's "Big V" story is nothing but positive-- he recovered like a champ, and was back at work on Monday, no problem!! I'm sure Randy's experience will be the same.
Kim, I'm so pleased and proud to hear how well you're doing with your radiation treatments. You're such a champ!! I know you want to work, and feel you need to work, but please remember to be kind to yourself, and rest.
Remember, slow and steady... I can already tell you're going to win the race.
Love to you xoxo
Posted by: Candygirlflies | July 13, 2007 05:46 PM
I had a V right before our twins were born. Other than a little swelling, everything went fine. I did make the mistake of jumping off a cabinet after changing a light bulb, Doh!
After you get the "all clear" it's great not having to mess with prophylactics. Freedom!
Posted by: Joel Maners | July 13, 2007 09:17 PM
You're almost done. That's got to make you feel great - despite the discomfort of it all.
Posted by: Mieke | July 14, 2007 01:12 PM
You are truly a positive person! And, there is a lot to be said for positive thinking. :) Your family has a lot going on right now...whew! Hang in there and continue taking great care of yourself.
Posted by: Michele Busky | July 14, 2007 01:59 PM
I repeat myself when I'm under stress...Sorry Michele, but that is pretty funny.
Posted by: Alison | July 14, 2007 06:25 PM
Alison, that just shows that she really, really means it. :) Now since you made fun of her you have to go donate to her breast cancer walk fundraising efforts. Michele, I'll fix the multi-postings for you tomorrow. We're having major internet connection problems tonight!
Posted by: Kim | July 14, 2007 10:44 PM
Great job making it thru this far as well as you have.
You're in our prayers!
Posted by: Sonofasailor | July 14, 2007 11:08 PM
Man, Kim, just when I think you should get the law student mom of the year award for continuing to study while they are radiating your breast(!!), you tell us your hubby's undergoing a V on the same day? Sheesh. Maybe you guys should win wonder couple of the year? Glad things continue to go well.
Posted by: PT-LawMom | July 15, 2007 11:24 AM
Alright, Kim, email me Michele's info to send a check. I can pony up as well as anyone. I have a special interest in "the cause," by the way:-)
Posted by: Alison | July 15, 2007 06:26 PM