They say radiation is fast. I'll say. I didn't even know that I was receiving it and they came in and told me it was over! Bizarre.
The first day, they take several x-rays to make sure they've got the exact parameters to radiate. Or something like that. All I know is that I was lying on the incredibly hard table, with my arms overhead, while 3 techs and a doctor swarmed around me in my topless state. Red rays were all over me. They walked out for what seemed like a minute and returned to inform me that I was done. It will be interesting to see if it is like that every day. Definitely better than chemo, if that is the case.
Today, I consulted with an amazing lymphedema specialist from Colorado named Trudy. www.healthlinksclinic.com. She gave me some additional helpful information and suggested that I do a lot more lymphatic self-massage and keep up on the range of motion exercises daily. She also told me to relax and meditate more because stress can make it worse.
She is concerned that radiation will exacerbate the problem and told me that I most definitely need to stay out of the heated yoga room, at least until a few months after radiation is complete. The heat and humidity trigger not only the swelling but also will make the radiation side-effects worse. Essentially, radiation is heat and my body will be working to stay healthy from the burning. Additional heat doesn't help. This is the umpteenth person who has doled out this advice.
I've been trying to avoid what seemed like the inevitable since the lymphedema reared its ugly head. Today, I had to give in and get my classes at Sculpt Fusion covered for the next few months. I'm so saddened because I love the community at Sculpt Fusion; I'd just returned to my classes and was so happy to reconnect with my students. Not to mention that I taught five classes there and it was a major part of my income. This lymphedema is hitting me on so many levels.
But, I will win.
Tomorrow is my birthday eve. One more day of being 43. For some odd reason, I won't be sad to wave goodbye to 43. Bring on 44!
BTW, feel free to comment directly on the blog! It makes me smile.
Claire,
ReplyDeleteI continue to be inspired by your determination and your positive if not unaffected strong will to live the life you want to live. You leave so much motivation in your wake. Thank you always
I would have guessed that you were 35 ;) xoxo
ReplyDeleteYou're a warrior missy!! Of course you'll win, you already have... :)
ReplyDeleteWas lovely spending time with you yesterday. Have a great Birthday Eve, what a fabulous concept! xoxo, Nikke
you are so strong . i love how you look at every obstacle that comes along as a challenge that you will conquer. that is how cancer is. i think half of surviving it is having the will and desire to over come it all. i think i told you my mom was a 20 year survivor back in the 80"s - but things have changed so much. i wish they had the meds for her that that have now. you will do great - you have such a positive attitude - keep it up - u will do great! OX Lyn
ReplyDeleteand acceptance to what has happened to you and what you need to do to heal.
Keep fighting, Claire. You will get your yoga classes back eventually! My mother in law is a 38 year survivor who has been richly blessed post-cancer. You will be, too.
ReplyDeleteMy oldest son and I are headed to Zimbabwe on a mission trip tomorrow so let me be the first to wish you a happy, happy birthday! Celebrate large, girl...you deserve it! Peace and blessings...:)
Julie McKeever Kavanagh
I'm glad we make you smile. You do realize we get that gift from you, don't you? ;-) Love you!!!
ReplyDeleteIt's your birthday already in Australia!! Happy Birthday, can't wait to see you in 6 weeks!
ReplyDeletexox Julie