Okay...so in my last post I described my radiation treatments as relaxing. Well, unfortunately this is no longer the case.
Let's just say that my armpit is not a happy camper :(. The skin started to breakdown/peel away about a week ago and it has become quite painful. It looks like something you would see on a 3rd degree burn victim. The day-to-day pain is somewhat tolerable. However, when I get into my treatment position (which involves extending my arms above my head) and holding it, it feels like my armpit is being stabbed with a hot poker.
My three radiation therapists, Dane, Alicia and Jenny are very empathetic and work as quickly as they can to get me in position and treated so that I don't have to be in excruciating pain for too long. Dane practically sprints in and out of the room to save time.
Thankfully, the rest of my skin in the treatment field (chest wall area) seems to be hanging in there. It has really started to itch though. It also looks as red as a fire truck.
I have become quite attached to my treatment team. They always greet me with a smile and make me feel as comfortable as possible. And, most importantly, we share lots of laughs even when I am in lots of pain.
While I will miss them, I can't wait to be done with treatments so that my skin can begin to heal. The time has actually gone by really fast. It's hard to believe that I have already had 25 treatments with only 8 more to go. Yay!
On another note, Young Survival Coalition (YSC) continues to be a tremendous source of support and strength for me. I can't even explain how much comfort it brings me to be involved with this organization. It has been so wonderful meeting and getting to know so many amazing fellow survivors through this group. Such a blessing!
Mike, Nick and I had a great time at YSC's annual Christmas party this past weekend and I got the red carpet treatment at a recent pampering event, where I received not one, not two, but four complimentary spa services. I felt so spoiled!
I also have to thank my fabulous mother-in-law, sisters in law and nieces for recently taking me out for a "done with chemo" celebratory dinner. You are the best!
That's all for now. Wishing you all a very, merry Christmas!
