Radiation Treatments

37 treatments. Does that sound like alot?

When you put it into weeks, it comes to about 7 weeks of Monday thru Friday. And while each treatment day isn't long, the driving back and forth does get old.

Funny, I was really over it in the second week. I hated the drive and it felt like I would never make it to the end of week 7. But soon, it became second nature and I was on autopilot. So much so that after it was over, it felt very strange not to have to go.

I was worried about how my skin would hold up, but it did OK. The radiation nurses have several different lotions that they recommend and give you samples of. Some are greasy, others creamy. You pick which seems to work best with your skin type. I also had a nice lotion that I got at Whole Foods that I used a lot - and still do.

Girlfriend Factoid: We should all pay attention to a few simple things when looking for a good skin moisturizer. Little to no alcohol (becuase that actually removes moisture from your skin) and no perfumes. And really, do you want to walk around smelling like roses or coconut all day? We are adults and our Hawiian Tropic college summers are long past.

I've always been like a sun-loving flower. I turn towards the sun, feeling it invigorating my body and soul. But, in effect, I was getting burned in my chest area each morning, so I had to stay out of the sun. It sucked hiding in the shade. And it was quite the challenge with 2 young kids who love the outdoors and the pool.

What's the secret to keeping yourself sane and happy thru crappy periods in your life? Silver Linings. And mine for radiation? I had a good excuse not to get into a bathing suit and show off those extra 15 pounds I gained over the holidays and my chemo treatments.