Sacrifices

I consulted with the radiation oncologist and my oncologist to determine whether I should receive radiation therapy for the met in my hip area. After weighing the pros and cons, I opted for the hour long treatment for 10 consecutive business days. The treatment required a simulation run and a dry run. During the simulation run, I received 6 small reference tattoos in order to be positioned on the radiation machine the same way each time. Getting these reference tattoos for consistent hip placement was much easier than getting a customized face mask locked down to keep my head still for the brain radiation. In some ways, hip radiation was a piece of cake compared to brain radiation. 

My dry run was scheduled a week before July 4th, but I had plans to go to Baltimore for my sweetheart's birthday. So I successfully asked to postpone the dry run until July 9th. I wanted to go on a road trip and celebrate the birthday of my amazing caregiver. It was the least I could do for someone who spends so much time and love taking care of me. I didn't think it was a big deal to suck up the pain for 2 weeks, but it was harder than I thought. I couldn't do it. I had to reschedule the dry run for this week, which means we would not be able to enjoy a long weekend away. I felt selfish. It's hard not to when a majority of decisions are made based on how I'm feeling. It's a struggle to remain selfless during such an inconvenient situation. I'm so thankful and lucky that my family and friends bear with me. 


                                                               Waiting at MSK