1/28/2012

Today is my first day of radiation. I will be getting 33 treatments for the next 6 weeks. I went in on Tuesday the 22nd and got my CT scan, which took 3D pictures of my body. I also got 4 little tattoos, tiny dots. Dr. Khater used those images from the CT scan to make plan of exactly where I will receive radiation. The tattoos are used to line up the machine correctly. On Friday I went in for a practice run. Dr. Khater explained to me that statistically they know where a reoccurrence is most likely to occur and they used that information in addition to the CT scan to determine where and how much radiation I will receive. I have heard that radiation is easier than chemo, so I'm hoping that is the case. Dr. Khater and the techs are so great and helpful. I am feeling ready to get started.

Last Wednesday I had my first Herceptin only infusion. It took about an 90 minutes and everything went smoothly. I saw Dr. Thomas, I had lots of question about my hair growing back, my nails getting better, when I would have more energy....basically he said be patience and that everything I was experiencing was pretty typical. I did have some swelling in my hands and he checked me out and said I had some slight lymphadema. Because I had lymph nodes removed during surgery, I am at risk for swelling on my left side. I was pretty disappointed in that news. Dr. Thomas sent me to a physical therapist who specializes in treating LE. I met with her on Friday. She was really nice and informative. I have to see her a couple times this week, but the good thing is we noticed it really early and it can be managed.

I also saw Dr. Jones. The incisions are looking good. He was able to do my last fill on my left side before beginning radiation. I also got another fill on my right side. I am not scheduled to see him again until March! Right now I am just hoping that the radiation treatment will cause any issues and everything will go smoothly.

So I am feeling pretty good. Tony says he thinks he sees a little hair growth! I have been trying to be more active and I think I am slowly getting a more energy and stamina...baby steps. Feels really great to be done with chemo and out of that cycle. Now I am just trying to be patient with my body as it heals...mentally I want to be 100% better, but physically that will take some time...but really each day gets better.

Thanks so much for all the love and support!