A really Rad team.

Dr.s Orcutt and Wilson from the Radiation Oncology dept will be in charge of my therapy, under the guidance of Dr. Paul Read, once I've healed from the neck dissection. 


I really can't speak enough of how personable every specialist, nurse, receptionist, technician in every department I've visited has been to me. There is a real sense of care, family, and devoted attention that each patient receives. I can't help but become emotional every time I experience it, because I've never before experienced it. Not in any hospital I've ever been to for care, or to visit someone under care. 


It all makes sense now why people from all over the country come to UVA to receive treatment.


Its also nice not being judged because of my appreciation for, and collection of tattoos. 


The team described the process, side effects, duration of therapy (8 min per day) and overall long term side effects that will promote some lifestyle adjustments, but I know that I have a lot to live for and am holding onto that feeling.


This diagnosis sure has put things into perspective for me, including my own mortality. 


Everyone of us, if unfortunately afforded radiation or chemotherapy in our lifetime, will react from it differently. 


They said I might not notice anything the first week.


By the second week, the sore throat will appear. 


The third week it will hurt a little more back there, making it difficult to swallow.


And then get worse, with a chance of needing a feeding tube inserted into my stomach, because I won't be able to swallow. (they said this would depend on how I handle the dose overtime.)


Receiving the radiation isn't going to be much fun, as I don't do well with tight, enclosed, spaces.


MRI tubes are one thing, Im ok with those, but..because the cancer is in my neck I have to wear a Radiation therapy head mask.   :(  


A good friend of mine, who is a nasal cancer survivor told me about the mask, as he had to wear it for his treatment. He said they have to tighten it down very tightly, so that it holds your skull in one place for the radiation to target the intended area only. 


Im not afraid to admit I'm going to have a real issue with this the first few times. Its going to really suck until I can get the first week or so behind me. 


I'll get over it, but !%$# man...I don't know what's worse, the radiation, or the mask?  At the moment both of them are, until I get to experience it a few times. 


Maybe I can get my imagination to take me away during the treatments.  






I am getting ahead of myself, but am starting to feel better about it, the more I get these words and thoughts out of me, and onto this wall...The more I think of the people that are pulling for me...The survivors who have come forward to share their experiences with me, offering directions and help. The more I thank god for everyone I have.


A friend of ours, who has studied yoga therapy for Cancer patients is going to come over and teach me a few things I can do if I get weak physically, to keep me moving. A few relaxation techniques, and some massage techniques that Sheila will be able to do.  


Fuk Cancer, I am going to win. 


To be continued..