Radiation

Today was my first day of radiation. What a pleasant surprise.... no needles, no noises and just a few short minutes. It is hard to believe that for the first time, it was painless. I know that it won't always be like this, but I am thankful for whatever I get. I will be going every day Monday-Friday for 6 weeks....The doctor says I will skate by the first couple weeks but than will get what looks like a burn and fatigue. Doesn't sound to bad. Hopefully I am right..I will let you know.

Tatoos

I am officially "tattooed". Yesterday was my initial visit to the radiation oncologist. Another long day but good one, I am all set and ready to go. They made a mold for me to lay on and tattooed me for the machine. On Friday I have to go back for an x-ray and radiation starts on Monday. I will be going everyday, Monday-Friday for 5 1/2 to 6 1/2 weeks. Seems like a long time but I am sure this will go quickly. The actual treatment only lasts about 10 minutes if that. It will take me longer to get there and back.
I am feeling much better since the sun has made an appearance and my mobility is getting there. I can now get both hands over my head although it is still not comfortable. Everyday is another day stronger and closer to normalcy.
The kids went back to school yesterday with quite a few mumbles..I just keep telling them that this is the final push and summer will be here before long. Dan is good. He is back working at the waterfront, so his days are long. Hopefully that won't last to long.
Hope everything is going well with all of you. Keep on praying and I hope to see you all sometime soon.

Fully Expanded

Well folks, I am fully expanded and I mean FULLY expanded. I feel as if I could pop! I must say they are looking good, just a little on the large side. In order for them to make you the size you want, they have to over expand you. Dan is loving life, as I am looking forward to the downsizing that will happen with the exchange surgery. Monday 4/20 is my initial visit to the radiation doctor. Things are moving right along!
I hope you all had a wonderful holiday. My family was very busy. It stated off by going to a friends house for Sader dinner followed by a visit from my younger brother and his family. They were able to spend a few days with us before they went on to my parents house. The kids had a blast as well as us. Easter way another great day. The Easter bunny was here bright and early and then we actually made it to church at 9:15! Mary, Dave, Paul, Nadia. Carl, Cloe and Nanny were all here. Mary and Dave did everything! It was so nice to sit, relax and visit with all of them.
Hope to see you all sometime soon.

Enjoy

Wishing you all a blessed Easter..
I will be in touch soon.

Expansion 2

All went well today. I am almost fully expanded. One more hit and I am there!!! Tomorrow I will call to confirm my radiation appointment as I have misplaced my appointment card. My sister has been here since Sunday and took me into the city. She is an amazing person and a real calming factor to me. Somehow, I feel so much better. My brother and his family are coming at the end of the week. It will be wonderful to see and spend time with them also.
Thank you all for all your support especially last week when I was having a tough time. Knowing you are all there for me (us) makes me so much stronger.. I truly love you all.
To all my Eagleswood buddies..... CONGRATULATIONS!! You have made it to Easter vacation! ENJOY!

Expanded

Yesterdays visit to the plastic surgeon went quick and painless. The were able to put in 120cc of saline on each side. At that rate, I should be showing soon. Dan is still praying for Dolly Parton size boobs but, he doesn't stand a chance.
I also wanted to clarify my path reports as I didn't really get it right the first time..( It's amazing how we process only so much.) The chemo affected all the cancer (both masses and the lymphs) it just didn't completely kill it. Chemo totally killing the cancer only happens in about 20% of patients. The amount of lymph nodes that were affected is still the same. I will just have to very careful on my right arm as to not trigger lymphodema (swelling). Dr. King was able to get all the cancer out with clear margins. It is important to get the radiation going as quickly as possible in order to "sterilize that area".
We are planning to start radiation by the end of the month.