Things are Settling Down

I am now about 6 weeks out from the Taxol infusions and feeling better every day.  I am still struggling with fluid and continuing to do the manual lymphatic drainage exercises twice a day.  The Neuropathy is tremendously better, and my stamina is back.  I go to sleep later at night like normal and wake up in the morning at my normal hour – around 6:30am. I am still walking every day and will likely start upper body exercises without weight or resistance this week. 


Today was the planning session for radiation.  I had previously read on the Mayo Clinic website a summary of what to expect – it was spot on.  My Radiologist was present, shared what to expect from the process and allowed me to ask any questions I had.  The ones I forgot I was able to ask the nurses and got full answers.  I am going to be doing the radiation at the new Asplundh Cancer Pavilion, which is beautiful.  I start the radiation next Wednesday.  It will be 4 weeks – 20 sessions.  And from what I understand another 2 weeks of recovery.  I am told that it is fatiguing, but not as bad as chemo.  So, I will continue with my schedule of water, food exercise and sleep.  Hopefully I sail thru this. 


As for preparation for radiation, I found the advice rather interesting.  My Doctor did not have any specific cream he recommended, and the nurses sort of believed that the creams do not really help they just make the patients feel better.  Given how sensitive I am, I have decided to take the advice of a choir friend and use something that is made by J&J called Biafine.  It is specifically for burn and radiation patients.  Another friend that just completed her radiation treatments wishes she had prepared her skin by using the cream a few days in advance.  I am taking that advice too.  Stay tuned as to how this all works out. 
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I am still getting the CSA share boxes of veggies, so will be inviting people for dinner this week.  I have to say getting the weekly box of veggies has been helpful in motivating me to cook, be creative with food prep, and trying new things.  I have also decided to do another 8 weeks of the CSA this summer.  I will not need to shop for vegetables until late September.