Cancer Journal #19 Feb 12

     Today, I had finished up a course of radiation treatment.  There were 20 zaps in all, four weeks, five times a week.  During the third week, I believe I had overall fatigue and lack of initiative.  Otherwise, I went through the process without effect, at least so far as I can tell.  I'm not as tuned into my body as some others are.  I could be just missing it.

    I was given a Certificate of  Completion, suitable for framing which I do not anticipate doing.  It noted though that I went through treatment with "the highest degree of courage, determination and good nature."  I don't know about the courage and determination but I do like that they celebrate good nature. 

     I also got to ring a celebration bell they have mounted to the wall in the waiting room.    Nice big sound that comes out of that bell.  A group of the staff that came out applauded after I rang the bell.  The radiation treatments required a full bladder which was a little tricky some of the time in ways I won't elaborate on.  Anyway, I was told 7-8 times that my bladder was "perfect."  After I rang the bell, I told the assembled staff that never in my life had such nice things been said about my bladder. 

    I have an appointment on Feb 22  to measure my PSA level.  I did ask the radiation oncologist whether the drop in PSA from 30 down to 1.8 and then down to .34 occurred frequently after treatment had started.  He said it was "pretty common."  The man is refreshingly blunt.  A little deflating but it's good to know.  I must not be surprised by a counterattack.  Mustn't think I got this thing in the bag.

Comments

  1. Jan CFebruary 15, 2021 at 7:34 AM

    Charlie, I'm glad this rigorous course of treatment is completed. It is good to celebrate good-naturedness, which you DO have. Nice to ring a bell and be applauded. There are many different ways to show support, eh?

    I imagine it is a roller-coaster ride, emotionally speaking. A marathon not a sprint?

    Hoping you and Jean are staying encouraged and staying warm! Love to you both!

    ReplyDelete

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