There is a rhythm to the treatments. Every day I log in and wait for one of the radiation techs to come and get me. I go to the dressing room and swap my pants for a robe. Then I go to LINAC I, hop onto the slab and fit my legs into the mold, and grab hold of my blue ring. The blue ring is so I can keep my arms immobile for a period of time so the radiation techs can push, pull and tug my body into the correct positioning and so I don't move while radiation commences.Once the techs are happy with my positioning, they leave the lead-lined room and radiation commences!
Every five days the techs x-ray my leg. This is to ensure the radiation range is hitting the mark. Then two days after the x-rays, I meet with my chief Radiologist, Dr. Danny. Apparently, everyone calls Dr. Indelicato by Dr. Danny. And it fits. The first time we met with him, we immediately thought of Doogie Howser, M.D. Laugh if you want. But he's one mighty young-looking doctor!
On Friday, I was gifted with a green Sharpie and 8 stickers. This was so I could touch up any marks/stickers over the weekend as needed. That made me feel better!
On a not so good note, I was taking a shower Sunday and noticed a lump on the back of my right leg, just above my ankle. Can't help it. I'm a bit skittish. I called the doctor Monday and they were able to fit me in today. So, after radiation we go to the Emerson office where M. Wetmore made room in her schedule to see me. Her first question was about what meds I'm taking as some meds can cause swelling. That was a negatory on that. She examined the lump. It is about 1-2 centimeters in diameter, right in the middle of the tendon, about 1 1/2 inches above the ankle. So, we took a couple x-rays which showed...nothing. M. Wetmore explained it was probably nothing, but if it would make me feel better, she could order an MRI - just to be sure. So, you know I'm going Yes Yes Yes. But the MRI comes at a cost - not so much monetary (I've already met my deductible for the year). I will have to have a contrast MRI, which means...I.V. Ugh!!!
In an earlier conversation, my sister suggested asking if I could get valium so when I do have to get I.V.'s, etc. I won't stress as much. So, I asked and it was answered. Whew! So tomorrow I get to go for lab work, M. Wetmore will call Dr. Danny to be sure a contrast MRI won't mess with my radiation treatment, and if all is a go, I'll get another MRI within the week. Same leg, but the ankle. I am a bit nervous. The lump is firm but not rock hard. So, I am hoping it really is nothing. Otherwise, it's yet another roller coaster - magnified.
Life is all about attitude, and I'm keeping it positive!
And if you're curious, here are two views of the roadmap of my right leg. Nice dent, and even nicer scar!
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