CT Planning

Today was my CT Planning appointment. This is the appointment where they position me for radiation and take a CT scan to check on the placement.

It took about an hour with several scans and readjustments of my body position.  The Radiation Technologist made several marks on my chest until she got it just right. Then she had the doctor come in to check on things and sign off on the positioning. Once all was good, she placed about four tiny tattoos on my chest to mark exactly where I will be positioned and lined up with the equipment for each radiation appointment. They were like little bug bites, so not really a problem. But laying there with both arms overhead, chin raised, and staying very still, was tiresome, but not impossible. 

See the itsy bitsy tattoo - the little tiny blue mark?

What I learned is that I need some kind of mantra/poem/prayer to recite during radiation to help while away the time. I remember this challenge during my MRI guided biopsy. I kept trying to recall a song or something and was at a loss. Of course I said many Hail Mary's and Lord's Prayers, but I was looking for something else as well to keep me positive and focused on something other than the procedure. So I have two weeks to come up with something.

I also learned I need to be extra cautious of sunburn to the chest these next two weeks. The Rad Tech warned me that if I get lots of sun in the tattoo zone, then they will delay radiation. Sunscreen and caution with V-neck shirts for sure!

While changing into the gown for the CT Planning, I realized that I will use one gown per week for radiation, based on the signs in the room. My gown will be kept in a "cubby" for me. Then on Friday I will place it in the "soiled gown" bin and start anew on the next Monday.

On July 29th I return for the teaching appointment where a nurse goes over all the particulars. That is immediately followed by the simulation appointment where they simulate radiation to make sure everything lines up as expected. Then that following Monday, August 1st, I start radiation. 

It is scary, AGAIN, but I am anxious to get on with it. So your positive words, thoughts, encouragement and prayers are welcome again. As it takes a village, for sure..... and you are all my village.

Hugs,

Debbie... aka the cancer warrior ... AND SURVIVOR!!!
Sonoma Relay for Life Team (8/6/11) ~  Debbie's Blasting Crew.