September 23: Today, Pat and I met with the Radiation Oncologist - Dr. Young. It was a comprehensive consultation regarding the last phase of my treatment. Radiation Therapy will begin October 10, Monday - Friday for 33 days. Next week, I will have a CT scan which will provide a clean map before Radiation begins. I will receive 4 permanent tattoos which will accurately provide the areas to be radiated. It is imperative that with each appointment, I am matched up with the beams which ultimately is aligned with the CT map.
I also learned today that the risk of developing lymphedema during radiation is very high. Therefore, I will be back in physical therapy. I did not plan on this, but I certainly want to respect the risk.
I have a decision to make based on new medical findings. Option 1 is to have Radiation to only the affected areas. Option 2 is comprehensive Radiation which includes the affected areas and surrounding lymph nodes. The advantage is that there is a 5 percent change that the cancer will not return. The disadvantage is that the risk of lymphedema increases between 30-40 percent. Needless to say, I have more reading to do and questions to ask.
Upcoming...
This past week was a wash. Fever, bone pain and nausea were present all week and I lost 7 pounds.
Next week I will have a CT Scan and Surgery to have the Port removed. In the meantime, I am counting on feeling better soon. I am done with the chemo side effects!
Please remember to sign up for 'Team MC' for the Susan Komen Race for the cure on October 23.
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