Radiation Therapy

Wednesday 12/13/23

     I was so tired after Tuesday’s radiation treatment that I actually took a three-and-a-half-hour nap that afternoon and later slept through the night. I don’t know if anything has really changed for the better or worse. That would be subject to the individual I imagine.

I know the doctors can’t tell how the treatment affects anyone in particular. But the restroom breaks continue as does the burning sensation while urinating. And the tiredness weighs in a couple hours afterwards.

     It’s definitely worth the ‘inconvenience’ considering the alternatives. That sounds so trifle. but it’s far from it. Coming off the ‘cuff’ here, as I said before I write these unscripted, to the one I used the term ‘trinket’ to, I truly apologize. That was uncalled for. It is, worth a lot to me to me to this day.

     I’m writing these ‘Cancer Chronicles’ so I don’t have to verbalize my feelings in person, over the phone, via video chat or text. Get well’s, you’ve got this, or any other type of encouragement are fine, as are how are you. Please accept my reply and don’t expect anything more if you do ask. I’m not being rude; it simply means I don’t want to talk about it. I do have a few individuals I reach out to, yet that list is ‘SMALL,’ unlike those capital letters and they know who they are. 

Thursday 12/14/23 Treatment Day 3

     Actually, slept through the night. That felt so good. But. (one word sentence) Getting ready to do this again and thinking what the afternoon will bring later in the day is mind boggling. Yet it has to be done. So, bring it on. Afterall, I can’t imagine going to the bathroom any more than I already have become accustomed to. Or have my sleep patterns tied more in knots.

     I’ve already made plans for this afternoon, so the ringer will be off after I publish this.  

      Y’all, know I love Taylor Swift. I received an email from Apple TV yesterday saying that her ‘Eras Tour’ was available for streaming. I contacted the two best critics I know in the business, friends, Kristyn Burtt and Teri Hart and asked them their thoughts. 

     Teri. had just one word to describe her viewing of it in the theater “EXCELLENT.” 

     While Kristyn added, it was “so much fun.” And then told me, “I think you will really enjoy it!!  She’s so talented!” 

Christmas Cards

     Not to sound as if I’m a beggar but there’s still time to send me a Christmas Card. If you don’t have my mailing address and I know you well enough, DM me and I’ll send it to you. Otherwise, you can post on my Facebook Business Page, please like and follow there too. 

     No Tara, this isn’t directed at you. But … in reality your card via FedEx last year still rates as the best ever! 😂🤣🥰🥰 That’s the kind of laughter and love I need this year; but it could never be scripted like that again. A fond memory I’ll always cherish. 

     Above are some cards and a message that have already arrived. Thank you very much to Noi (TL), Nadiia (TR), Isabella (ML), Robyn (MR), Tom and Linda (LL) and Loren (LR). 

     A special mention to Linda, a neighbor, (LL) who’s battling her second go through with ‘brain cancer.’ Girl, you got this! Your story, your strength, your friendship and your inspiration mean the world to me. 

     And using George Clooney’s words from todays ‘Good Morning America’ interview, “We’re better together. All of us.” I’ll add, I miss those that are gone, those that read and don’t drop a hello. those that are silently rooting but choose to stay shy. Don’t hide, let me know you care; it can be left at that. Just knowing is healing. Your added strength eases my thoughts and warms my heart. Remember it’s Christmas and time to give, ‘Got love?’ Show a little. 

Treatment

     Star date -300952.28 and round 3 of ‘radiation therapy’ (as they like to call it) is in the medical logs. Mr. Scott, Scotty, was always my favorite character in the series. Why? Because he preferred ‘Scotch’ over ‘Romulan Ale.’ Then again, maybe ‘Bones’ should be my favorite. Hell, he could’ve fixed me up in a nanosecond with his ‘medical tricorder!’ That’s for you Trekkies. 

     Would like to say today’s procedure went uneventful. However, there was a glitch, although the task was completed. Midway through the procedure, the adult bib that gets applied to shrink wrap you, started bothering my neck and an inadvertent ‘clearing of the throat’ occurred. This small movement caused the doctor and tech to stop and realign me on the slab as I lay inside my mold. The remainder of the procedure went without any further incidents. 

     While I wait for two more treatments next week, it’s time to get ‘beamed’ to the bed to watch Taylor’s concert! 

     Stay tuned, as I’m sure I’ll be writing about that tomorrow! 

12/08/2024

FOOTNOTE:

This past summer my friend Linda, mentioned above, passed away due to her cancer. Although it was sad to hear of her passing, I am happy for her. The brain cancer she carried within her caused great pain. Both physically and mentally.

Yet she fought best she could and always wished me well in my own battles and worried about leaving her ‘ex’ husband alone. See, they were still friends. Tom was beside her the day she passed.

So yes, ‘unconditional love‘ does exist, and they shared it. I believe in it too.

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