Radiation 101

Thought you might be interested in what I learned today at my second internal treatment for endo cancer. Since asking questions is my middle name I was curious as to why this second treatment was to last 353.6 seconds when last week's treatment was 335.4. So of course I asked. The therapist explained that the length of time is partly dependent on the half life of the radium. The radium in the cylindar decays at the certain rate and if the cylindar is new the time of treatment is shorter. Since the radium in the cylindar is close to being replaced the time must increase with each use. It is to be replaced on Monday as next week's treatment will be shorter than the first. So interesting!
I have two external and one internal to go and then I am DONE. Today went well but things are getting a little sore. Glad only one mor.e internal.
I am really grateful that everyone treating me are so supportive and so willing to tell me all.
Jean

Sure hope the rest of your treatments go very smoothly.

Rosalie

Hey, Jean. I had the external and internal radiation, too, and there is nothing like the feeling you get walking out of that radiation department on the last day of treatment. I had both chemo and radiation and for me, the radiation seemed as if it would never end.

You sound like you're doing real well. Congratulations on finishing up with the treatment. It's a toughie.

Maureenie,
Thank you for the good wishes. When I first posted on hyster sisters all that lay ahead seemed to be so daunting. I really didn't think this week would ever come. But it has and I will be so happy on Thursday when I am DONE. Of all the things that can detour your life this is certainly rememberable, but not all bad. I have met some really wonderful and caring people and my radiologist is the most caring and professional woman I have evern met. I am honored to have met her and Syracuse is blessed to have her as part of the medical network.
For those who are just starting this rather unexpected and scary path, it is doable and nowhere as unpeasant as your imagination might create.
You car do it.
Jean
BTW can anyone explain why I am no longer being notified by e mail when someone responds to my posts?