Radiation part I

Yesterday I began my first session of radiation and I'll admit that even a pro like me got nervous. I swore that radiation would feel like getting a sunburn but so far, it hasn't. I went and got all drawn with Sharpie then some stickers were put over top because I'm a bit sweaty. I came back in 3 hours and got radiated. Piece of cake! It lasted for 15 minutes and didn't feel, taste or smell like anything at all.

I was told that I might have a back pain flare up because I'm getting radiated on an area that has tumours in it (some people get radiation after surgery which aims to kill any small cancer cells, not removed by laser/scalpel, and they, likely,wouldn't have a pain flare-up). Even though I was forewarned of the pain, I still went to Edward and the Magnetic zeros concert last night and didn't hurt at all. I brought camping stools to sit on (it was standing room only and I played my, rarely used, cancer card.) Elle might not agree with me that I rarely use it though :).

Before the concert, I bought a bra to wear to my next 4 radiation treatments. Radiation, like CT, MRI and X-ray, malfunctions or causes pain if metal is in the frame when the machine is on so I needed a metal-free outfit that would open from the front, thus exposing my marked up skin. The bra has a plastic front closure but metal rings in the back. So I used shears that my grandpa gave me for Christmas (a great present) and I cut them off, then I sewed the fabric together so that I had a cute, front closure and metal free bra. Now I don't have to wear a gown! I wore a button-up shirt and metal free pants. Not undressing at the hospital gives me ridiculous pleasure that I equate with having a perfectly manicured lawn or finding the shortest line at the check-out in a store. Silly but gratifying.

My special "scan bra" only cost me 18.90$. Pretty good, right? This picture of my radiation Sharpie marks is more risque than my standard however, I think that seeing what's happening to your loved one or checking out a medical event beforehand can really alleviate anxiety.

Have a happy Tuesday because I know that I will :),
Cail

p.s. Salad for breakfast: a delicious arugula, basil, tomato, olive, red onion and yellow pepper salad with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, oregano and garlic dressing. I make my dressing with my immersion blender.