One Down, Thirty Two to Go

I went today for my first radiation treatment. One down, thirty two to go!!!

I decided to do a "Show And Tell Blog" today!!!

This first picture is of my port placement, that will be used for the chemo. (The plastic tube has nothing to do with the port, it is an oxygen tube). The port is under the long, bumped up, incision. My shoulder still aches some from this procedure.

In preparation for the radiation treatments they made a mask for me, to be used during each treatment. The mask is made from a mesh material with a frame around it. They wet the mesh and then heat it. Then they press the frame down around my head so the mesh molds over my face. As it dries it hardens. The mask is placed over my face and the frame is screwed to the table for each treatment. They want to be precise each time, and to radiate the exact same places each time, thus the mask is used to make sure this happens. (I can't stand to be held down unable to move, so having my head screwed to a table requires my mind going to a "happy place"!!!!) They also put nice fury little cuffs on each wrist with a band connecting them to a board placed under my feet. This is done to pull my shoulders down out of the way of the radiation beams. It all looks and sounds pretty barbaric but there is no pain involved!!!

When this is all over, I will be given the mask as a souvenir!!!! What more could a girl want!!!!


The treatment only took a few minutes. I have no noticeable side effects after this first treatment.

Stephanie went with us today, and used the travel time to prepare for her Bible School Class tonight. I'm not sure why the big eyes?

Here is a picture of my ever faithful driver.

I am doing really well both mentally and physically tonight. Thank you for all your prayers. I know several people and Churches had asked Wendell what time my appointment would be today, so they could pray at that time. Thank you sooooo much!!!! Once again I am so humbled by the concern that has been showed to me!!! I know it is through the prayers people are praying for us, that we get through each day, clothed in God's grace.