Radiation update.

Met with my radiation oncologist this morning. She told me that 4 out of 5 of the oncologist she polled recommended the radiation (sounds like a toothpaste commercial). The 5th one was 'on the fence'.

I had already decided to go for the radiation with the logic being that I originally had planned only a lumpectomy which automatically comes with radiation. If I hadn't done the last-minute switch to the mastectomy, the radiation wouldn't have been in question, so what's the diff now? She said that there is a small layer of breast tissue under the skin that will benefit from the radiation.

Also, they zap my lymph nodes above the breast area. I was thinking they would zap under my armpit, but then she mentioned that THOSE ones have already been removed. Makes sense.... zap ones that are still there.

So, I'm having my 'measuring' appointment on the 28th of April and then will start radiation a week or so after that.

I have been feeling okay. My feet are more numb this time, and now my hands are tingly too. Not debilitating, but like pins and needles. I had less pain this time, but longer tingling. I'm just hoping this is temporary and not permanent....

And, the ability to head off to Desert Hot Springs is becoming a reality - I've been wheeling and dealing my appointments so I can make this happen. And wouldn't you know it, this is the time when my hair is growing back..... just in time for me to be wearing a bathing suit! What a rip. Now I'll have to worry about my bikini line....dammit. OR, not worry, and hope the old folks don't have eyesite that astute.... !

Of course, if I don't get my eating under control, the bikini area will be the least of my worries...since I won't be able to see it... Yah - ok, it's not THAT bad, and I did hire a personal trainer to help me get back on track, so it won't be long until I look as good as Jennifer Aniston... a fellow forty year old... (HA - IN MY DREAMS)...

On a different note, I have taken to chastising the bird lately. NO that is not a euphism for some kind of dirty phrase.... I mean literally yelling at the bird to stop teasing the dog. Cooper is altogether too interested in the birds and will leap at the cage to try to get at them. But I have noticed lately that my conure will purposely climb down near the bottom of the cage to be right at head level with the dog and taunt him. The first while, Cooper was the one getting in trouble "NO BIRD". But once I realized the bird was teasing him, now the bird gets the crap. Damn kids - always fighting....

Anyway, until next time!