I am fine and am three weeks done with radiation treatments - half way. Fourteen days to go, but who's counting. The radiation has been quite uneventful. I show up, I am greeted deliciously and enthusiastically by all those involved, I hop on the table, we adjust my positioning, the mask is snapped on, the machine is properly aligned, they take an x-ray scan to zero in on the area to be radiated, readjust the table if necessary, and bingo! I'm radiated. The mask comes off, I sit up, and we are done for the day - all in less than fifteen (or so) minutes. Three or four zaps from different positions equals the daily dose. The actual time I'm being radiated is less than two minutes. The only side effect to date is a slight metallic taste that I experience every once and a while.
I took my grand daughter Cianya (13 yrs old) with me last Friday. The radiation crew took her through the whole process and she even got to see the control room and watch everything they did with explanations. When I asked her how it was, she replied, "It was so cool." And then she explained to me what went on in control central. I thought it would be a great view of a world few people see (gratefully) and an eye to possible employment futures for her. Plus, she's just fun to be with and it made that particular day special for me.
On my walk to and from the hospital, I pass several forsythia bushes which are coming into bloom starting last week. They are such a contrast against the blue, blue sky we are occasionally experiencing. These also make the walk over and back, special. Perspective is everything.
I so appreciate your hanging in there with me as this journey plays itself out. The longer span of time between this communication and the last one was because my recovery has become pretty normalized. Nothing particularly new. Then I realized that some of you were concerned that the silence might have meant something not so good. I'll not wait so long for the next post. Honestly.
CR
All things considered, it seems like a relatively humane process. I am envious of your grand daughter and her view from the ship's bridge. Did she mention that Homer Simpson is controlling the gun? It is great to hear that you are doing so well.
ReplyDeleteGood to read your words and to hear that all is going well. Thanks for posting.
ReplyDeleteWhat blue sky and yellow! Nothing like long awaited, bursting spring in Vermont to fuel the soul. I'm so glad to hear how these weeks of radiation have been for you Charlie, smooth and predictable is a good thing. And that Cianya participated must have made your week! I appreciate the note.
ReplyDeleteHope you continue to do well. We think of you often and send you our prayers for continued good health. Virginia
ReplyDeleteGreat to hear the continuing good news. You and Ann are in my thoughts. XOXO Lisa I.
ReplyDeleteGlad to read that things are going well. Thinking of you a lot. <3
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