brachy/Deanna
Comments
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(((((EVELYN))))) On internal / external radiation
Hi, Evelyn! I don't know much about your specific type of cancer, but wanted to reply and hope you can educate me more about it. I am at a similar juncture as you, as my radiation is coming up soon. I assumed all along that it would be 5 weeks of extrenal pelvic, followed by 3 weeks of internal vaginal. I had a radical hysterectomy October 10, 2008, and finished up the last of 6 rounds of chemo (Carboplatin / pacitaxol) late March 2009. So as soon as my blood work shows I am strong enough to start radiation, I will meet with the radiation oncologist and see what he recommends. Because I have had some trouble keeping my white, red, and platelets up a safe levels (and had to have 2 blood transfusions and 4 1/2 weeks of chemo delays over the course of the 6 rounds of chemo), I hope to have the internal radiation first since I am afraid my bone marrow won't hold up for the 5 weeks of extrenal radiation. I tried to have my radiation 'sandwiched' between my 3rd and 4th rounnds of chemo, but they wouldn't go for it. They seemed to think it was vital that I get all 6 rounds of chemo in, and feared the radiation would affect my bone marrow too much. I'm not sure whether that decision was based on my cancer stage (Stage 3-C), my lifelong history of mild anemia, or the fact that I have always been thin, or what. So I don't yet know what my radiation treatment will be. But if you have the time to read the LONGEST thread on this Board, we have discussed radiation in great detail, and many of the women here have shared their experiences.0 -
Hi Evelynlindaprocopio said:(((((EVELYN))))) On internal / external radiation
Hi, Evelyn! I don't know much about your specific type of cancer, but wanted to reply and hope you can educate me more about it. I am at a similar juncture as you, as my radiation is coming up soon. I assumed all along that it would be 5 weeks of extrenal pelvic, followed by 3 weeks of internal vaginal. I had a radical hysterectomy October 10, 2008, and finished up the last of 6 rounds of chemo (Carboplatin / pacitaxol) late March 2009. So as soon as my blood work shows I am strong enough to start radiation, I will meet with the radiation oncologist and see what he recommends. Because I have had some trouble keeping my white, red, and platelets up a safe levels (and had to have 2 blood transfusions and 4 1/2 weeks of chemo delays over the course of the 6 rounds of chemo), I hope to have the internal radiation first since I am afraid my bone marrow won't hold up for the 5 weeks of extrenal radiation. I tried to have my radiation 'sandwiched' between my 3rd and 4th rounnds of chemo, but they wouldn't go for it. They seemed to think it was vital that I get all 6 rounds of chemo in, and feared the radiation would affect my bone marrow too much. I'm not sure whether that decision was based on my cancer stage (Stage 3-C), my lifelong history of mild anemia, or the fact that I have always been thin, or what. So I don't yet know what my radiation treatment will be. But if you have the time to read the LONGEST thread on this Board, we have discussed radiation in great detail, and many of the women here have shared their experiences.
Sorry to hear that you are going through all of this. I was Stage IIA and had only the internal radiation (3 times in a week). I was told that is the first place the cancer likes to return; in the vaginal cuff area.
Linda, interesting to see that you have had a history of mild anemia all of you life. Me too. I think it would be interesting to put a survey together to see what other likeness we might have.
MIND, BODY AND SOUL!
Hugs.0 -
Had appointment with Radiation Onocologist todaylindaprocopio said:(((((EVELYN))))) On internal / external radiation
Hi, Evelyn! I don't know much about your specific type of cancer, but wanted to reply and hope you can educate me more about it. I am at a similar juncture as you, as my radiation is coming up soon. I assumed all along that it would be 5 weeks of extrenal pelvic, followed by 3 weeks of internal vaginal. I had a radical hysterectomy October 10, 2008, and finished up the last of 6 rounds of chemo (Carboplatin / pacitaxol) late March 2009. So as soon as my blood work shows I am strong enough to start radiation, I will meet with the radiation oncologist and see what he recommends. Because I have had some trouble keeping my white, red, and platelets up a safe levels (and had to have 2 blood transfusions and 4 1/2 weeks of chemo delays over the course of the 6 rounds of chemo), I hope to have the internal radiation first since I am afraid my bone marrow won't hold up for the 5 weeks of extrenal radiation. I tried to have my radiation 'sandwiched' between my 3rd and 4th rounnds of chemo, but they wouldn't go for it. They seemed to think it was vital that I get all 6 rounds of chemo in, and feared the radiation would affect my bone marrow too much. I'm not sure whether that decision was based on my cancer stage (Stage 3-C), my lifelong history of mild anemia, or the fact that I have always been thin, or what. So I don't yet know what my radiation treatment will be. But if you have the time to read the LONGEST thread on this Board, we have discussed radiation in great detail, and many of the women here have shared their experiences.
We have made it back to Illinois and I met with the radiation onocologist today. He recommends 5 - 5 1/2 weeks of external pelvic radiation and then one internal radiation treatment which I will need to be hospitalized for a few days. He said they do not do the internal radiation as an out-patient at this cancer center. I know Teresa talked about having to go into the hospital for her internal radiation. We have not heard from Theresa since she started radiation therapy. I hope she is doing okay.
They did a scan and then the markings today, and I guess what Linda referred to as a "butt mold" today. I will start my radiation treatments on Wednesday. This doctor said my blood counts would not be affected very much by the radiation treatments as the radiation is so focused to the area it is needed. I don't know if this is because my blood counts are very good to start with. He said I would need a full bladder when the treatments are done. This will be accomplished by drinking lots of fluids. They just got a new machine and it is a top of the line machine for radiation therapy. I hope it is all going to work. I want to have NED like so many of you have.0 -
high dose rate bracytherapyshortmarge said:Hi Evelyn
Sorry to hear that you are going through all of this. I was Stage IIA and had only the internal radiation (3 times in a week). I was told that is the first place the cancer likes to return; in the vaginal cuff area.
Linda, interesting to see that you have had a history of mild anemia all of you life. Me too. I think it would be interesting to put a survey together to see what other likeness we might have.
MIND, BODY AND SOUL!
Hugs.
Hi Gals,
Shortmarge, thank you for responding. What type of cancer did you have?
Lindaprocopio, My surgery was Nov. 19 and was to be by robotics. But the surgeon nicked the fibroid and it oozed. The surgeon used the laprascopic spoon and converted to the standard north/south incision (ouch!). Since microscopic leiomyosarcoma cells may have remained, it was recommended that I have six rounds of chemo--one week gemcitabeen, second docetaxel and gemcitabeen, the none the third week (three weeks = one round). I had white cell blood injections after the second and third rounds (shots were $15,000 each!). I had one red blood cell injection after third round. Wasn't enough as I wound up in the hospital Valentine weekend. I had two units of blood and sent home on Monday. On Friday the oncologist took one look at me and said I was extremely toxic (after three rounds). I had to take the steroid med pack. It mildly cleared up the toxicity but I am just now beginning to regain my strength. The gyn. oncologist felt radiation wouldn't help. A second opinion at the UofM suggested six weeks, five days of external radiation. With my Stage 1C, I think that is kind of drastic. My friend had a hysterectomy two weeks after me but had a different kind of cancer. She had three treatments during three weeks of HDRB and no chemo. I went to her radiation doc and he would do the same for me. Thursday I'm getting yet another gyn onc. opinion. I'm scheduled for the first HDRB Friday. So this week will be busy and full of decisions.
One thing about external radiation is that it could damage your colon or bladder. That's what I've been told. But with your Stage 3C, I don't think you have much choice. Good luck!
Evelyn G0 -
Ro10Ro10 said:Had appointment with Radiation Onocologist today
We have made it back to Illinois and I met with the radiation onocologist today. He recommends 5 - 5 1/2 weeks of external pelvic radiation and then one internal radiation treatment which I will need to be hospitalized for a few days. He said they do not do the internal radiation as an out-patient at this cancer center. I know Teresa talked about having to go into the hospital for her internal radiation. We have not heard from Theresa since she started radiation therapy. I hope she is doing okay.
They did a scan and then the markings today, and I guess what Linda referred to as a "butt mold" today. I will start my radiation treatments on Wednesday. This doctor said my blood counts would not be affected very much by the radiation treatments as the radiation is so focused to the area it is needed. I don't know if this is because my blood counts are very good to start with. He said I would need a full bladder when the treatments are done. This will be accomplished by drinking lots of fluids. They just got a new machine and it is a top of the line machine for radiation therapy. I hope it is all going to work. I want to have NED like so many of you have.
Here in Cleveland internal radiation is done in six minutes. I'm told there are minimal side effects such as diarrhea for a day and possibly some itching. He said I can drive myself there and home again. It's generally tolerated well. In my case, the area covered would be 3-1/2 cm.
Evelyn G0 -
Welcome Evelyn GEvelyn G said:high dose rate bracytherapy
Hi Gals,
Shortmarge, thank you for responding. What type of cancer did you have?
Lindaprocopio, My surgery was Nov. 19 and was to be by robotics. But the surgeon nicked the fibroid and it oozed. The surgeon used the laprascopic spoon and converted to the standard north/south incision (ouch!). Since microscopic leiomyosarcoma cells may have remained, it was recommended that I have six rounds of chemo--one week gemcitabeen, second docetaxel and gemcitabeen, the none the third week (three weeks = one round). I had white cell blood injections after the second and third rounds (shots were $15,000 each!). I had one red blood cell injection after third round. Wasn't enough as I wound up in the hospital Valentine weekend. I had two units of blood and sent home on Monday. On Friday the oncologist took one look at me and said I was extremely toxic (after three rounds). I had to take the steroid med pack. It mildly cleared up the toxicity but I am just now beginning to regain my strength. The gyn. oncologist felt radiation wouldn't help. A second opinion at the UofM suggested six weeks, five days of external radiation. With my Stage 1C, I think that is kind of drastic. My friend had a hysterectomy two weeks after me but had a different kind of cancer. She had three treatments during three weeks of HDRB and no chemo. I went to her radiation doc and he would do the same for me. Thursday I'm getting yet another gyn onc. opinion. I'm scheduled for the first HDRB Friday. So this week will be busy and full of decisions.
One thing about external radiation is that it could damage your colon or bladder. That's what I've been told. But with your Stage 3C, I don't think you have much choice. Good luck!
Evelyn G
I was just curious what type of cancer you have and what stage it is. All of this information makes a huge difference in the type of treatment that you should be receiving for your cancer. A lot of us on here have uterine papillary serous carcinoma which is a highly reoccurent and aggressive form of uterine cancer. I tends to act more like an ovarian cancer, thus, the goal is to throw the book at it in the beginning and go for the cure as reoccurences are much more difficult to work with. Anyway, the initial recommended treatment in most cases of UPSC is 25 external beam pelvic radiation and 3 internal high dose vaginal radiation treatments. The most common site of reoccurence is the top of the vaginal cuff. Chemotherapy of carboplatin and taxol every 21 days for 6 cycle is also the most accepted practice. There are variations some people "sandwich" 3 chemos then radiation, then finishing 3 chemos. Others do all chemo first and then radiation and vice versa.
If you have Stage I C uterine cancer, perhaps the treatment being recommonded would be drastic, however, if you are dealing with UPSC, the more agressive that treatment, the better.
I hope that you get well seen. Take care and God Bless.0 -
We are practically neighbors...Ro10 said:Had appointment with Radiation Onocologist today
We have made it back to Illinois and I met with the radiation onocologist today. He recommends 5 - 5 1/2 weeks of external pelvic radiation and then one internal radiation treatment which I will need to be hospitalized for a few days. He said they do not do the internal radiation as an out-patient at this cancer center. I know Teresa talked about having to go into the hospital for her internal radiation. We have not heard from Theresa since she started radiation therapy. I hope she is doing okay.
They did a scan and then the markings today, and I guess what Linda referred to as a "butt mold" today. I will start my radiation treatments on Wednesday. This doctor said my blood counts would not be affected very much by the radiation treatments as the radiation is so focused to the area it is needed. I don't know if this is because my blood counts are very good to start with. He said I would need a full bladder when the treatments are done. This will be accomplished by drinking lots of fluids. They just got a new machine and it is a top of the line machine for radiation therapy. I hope it is all going to work. I want to have NED like so many of you have.
Where are you at in Illinois. I live in Missouri... Springfield area. I am glad you are back and have a plan for your radiation. I bet you are relieved to have some concrete for the next leg of your journey. Radiation is not too bad. Listen to the full bladder advise. I did that, but I am just now starting have some difficulty with my bladder leaking. They tell me that it is from the scarring to the bladder from radiation. The bladder, I guess becomes less elastic and shrink, creating small bladder capacity. I am having leaking if my bladder becomes to full. This is particulary happening at night while sleeping, pretty humiliating. Then tell me that it will get better as I become more in tune with the "new sensation."
As far as the blood counts, they checked them before my first treatment and then not again until radiation was complete and I was ready to start chemo. You probably won't have any problem. You didn't with your first 3 chemos!
Soon, very soon Ro... we are all going to be NED together. Won't that be wonderful!
Good luch with your radiation, I will be thinking about you!
PS... I finally got chemo #4 today. My magnesium was low, but they just gave me some IV (took 4 hours). They also said they had thrown the book at me on the first 3 treatments, so they lowered my carboplatin by 1/3. I'm thinkin I'll probably end up with a 7th treatment because of the lower dose, but what's one more?! As long as I get NED and he stays! lol
Love,
Deanna0 -
Evelyndeanna14 said:We are practically neighbors...
Where are you at in Illinois. I live in Missouri... Springfield area. I am glad you are back and have a plan for your radiation. I bet you are relieved to have some concrete for the next leg of your journey. Radiation is not too bad. Listen to the full bladder advise. I did that, but I am just now starting have some difficulty with my bladder leaking. They tell me that it is from the scarring to the bladder from radiation. The bladder, I guess becomes less elastic and shrink, creating small bladder capacity. I am having leaking if my bladder becomes to full. This is particulary happening at night while sleeping, pretty humiliating. Then tell me that it will get better as I become more in tune with the "new sensation."
As far as the blood counts, they checked them before my first treatment and then not again until radiation was complete and I was ready to start chemo. You probably won't have any problem. You didn't with your first 3 chemos!
Soon, very soon Ro... we are all going to be NED together. Won't that be wonderful!
Good luch with your radiation, I will be thinking about you!
PS... I finally got chemo #4 today. My magnesium was low, but they just gave me some IV (took 4 hours). They also said they had thrown the book at me on the first 3 treatments, so they lowered my carboplatin by 1/3. I'm thinkin I'll probably end up with a 7th treatment because of the lower dose, but what's one more?! As long as I get NED and he stays! lol
Love,
Deanna
I HAD UPSC and clear cell carcinoma. My doctor told me that it only took eight minutes also but you do have set up time and making sure all is right so it takes a total of about 30 to 35 minutes. I drove myself there and back, which I probably shouldn't have since I was in the middle of having chemo treatments and my balance was sooooo off. It doesn't hurt it's just humilating but you gotta do what you gotta do!
Deanna about the bladder, I had that problem too. When I had to go I had to go, get out of my way. But now all is back to normal, even better then before the surgery, I think I might be able to jump rope with my grandkids without wetting myself
! I'm just still having problems with the pain in my ankles and my hips; which I think is due more to the radiation then the chemo.
Ro, hang in there it will be all over before you know it. Like Deanna says we will all be NED!
MIND, BODY AND SOUL!
Hugs.0 -
I meet with the radiation oncologist on Monday for a plan.
I woke up crying last night for the first time in a LONG time. I think it was actually setting the appointments for my post-chemo CT-scan (this Friday!) and consultation with the radiation oncologist (on Monday.) I am also probably at my nadir point with my blood counts and I think that makes me emotional. (I'll find that out Thursday when I go for my 'safety check' blood work.) I wish I weren't so afraid of the long-term radiation side affects. I am so anxious to get this done and be 'out of treatment' after all these many many months. So a big part of me is eager to get the radiation started. But I mourn the possible loss of my easy natural sex life and perfect digestion, and a leaking bladder and painful sex sound so very grim. I plan to use the dilators and get myself back to normal as quickly as I can! I don't think I have a choice about having this, with my Stage III-c UPSC, but I can understand why women with Stage 1 or 2 would decide against it, and roll the dice. I am so grateful that Marge's bladder problems corrected themselves with a little time, and I will hang onto that hopeful outcome. Thanks so much for sharing your experiences!!! My tears always make my husband cry too, so I am glad I can usually keep a good attitude and not give in to self-pity and fear.
Did you hit 'refresh' to see my new little Easter bunny? It's not a very clear photo. I bought him on Sunday and he's like a little kitten how he sits on my lap to be petted. I plan for him to live outside in the hutch in my garden, but while he is so little, I have him in an indoor hutch by my computer so that I can play him. It's a comfort to have a soft little animal to pet, and my grandkids and husband just love him.0 -
Bladder!shortmarge said:Evelyn
I HAD UPSC and clear cell carcinoma. My doctor told me that it only took eight minutes also but you do have set up time and making sure all is right so it takes a total of about 30 to 35 minutes. I drove myself there and back, which I probably shouldn't have since I was in the middle of having chemo treatments and my balance was sooooo off. It doesn't hurt it's just humilating but you gotta do what you gotta do!
Deanna about the bladder, I had that problem too. When I had to go I had to go, get out of my way. But now all is back to normal, even better then before the surgery, I think I might be able to jump rope with my grandkids without wetting myself! I'm just still having problems with the pain in my ankles and my hips; which I think is due more to the radiation then the chemo.
Ro, hang in there it will be all over before you know it. Like Deanna says we will all be NED!
MIND, BODY AND SOUL!
Hugs.
Marge, I so hope my bladder improves like yours! I guess there are side effects that could be a lot worse, but I still hope as time goes on that I won't have to worry about wetting myself! I also have the hip discomfort, although not all of the time. It seems to come and go. My low back and hips just seem to be very sore and stiff as if I have exercised, which I have not yet started doing yet. Other than walking, I try to take a walk most days. I do have aching in my feet, ankles and lower legs, but only after the Neulasta injection for about a week.
Evelyn,
I agree with Marge. You should be able to drive yourself. They don't give you any medication, although I think it might be less humiliating if they gave you a good dose of valium or xanax! lol. The nature of it is humliating, but it has to be done. One of those things you just have to hold your head up high and get it over with! Good luck and take care.
Hugs to all,
Deanna0 -
Radiationlindaprocopio said:I meet with the radiation oncologist on Monday for a plan.
I woke up crying last night for the first time in a LONG time. I think it was actually setting the appointments for my post-chemo CT-scan (this Friday!) and consultation with the radiation oncologist (on Monday.) I am also probably at my nadir point with my blood counts and I think that makes me emotional. (I'll find that out Thursday when I go for my 'safety check' blood work.) I wish I weren't so afraid of the long-term radiation side affects. I am so anxious to get this done and be 'out of treatment' after all these many many months. So a big part of me is eager to get the radiation started. But I mourn the possible loss of my easy natural sex life and perfect digestion, and a leaking bladder and painful sex sound so very grim. I plan to use the dilators and get myself back to normal as quickly as I can! I don't think I have a choice about having this, with my Stage III-c UPSC, but I can understand why women with Stage 1 or 2 would decide against it, and roll the dice. I am so grateful that Marge's bladder problems corrected themselves with a little time, and I will hang onto that hopeful outcome. Thanks so much for sharing your experiences!!! My tears always make my husband cry too, so I am glad I can usually keep a good attitude and not give in to self-pity and fear.
Did you hit 'refresh' to see my new little Easter bunny? It's not a very clear photo. I bought him on Sunday and he's like a little kitten how he sits on my lap to be petted. I plan for him to live outside in the hutch in my garden, but while he is so little, I have him in an indoor hutch by my computer so that I can play him. It's a comfort to have a soft little animal to pet, and my grandkids and husband just love him.
Linda, once again, I think the fear of the unknown is the worst. I think you will find that radiation is a breeze compared to chemo! You are in good shape and healthy other than this stupid cancer (which is gone, remember!). You will get through this with flying colors. I personally think that crying is good for you. Nothing wrong with a good cleansing cry once in a while! I tend to have a sort of fussy digestive system and I can honestly say my digestive system is back to normal. Actually probably much better than before surgery. Except of course during the immediate post chemo days. Before my surgery, I was constipated ALL the time, now I am really very normal even after radiation. As far as the sex life, I believe that my lack of want to is due to the hormonal changes, not the radiation. You can use the dilators, or you can just use the natural method. I prefer the natural method myself... think of it as therapy! Everything that I have read encourages two to four times a week! I have not used the dilators, only the natural method and I don't have any trouble. If you are not having libido problems now, you will be fine. As I said, my troubles are menopausal, lack of libido. If anyone finds any methods of dealing with this without estrogen or phytoestrogens, please share! Keep your chin up Linda and your positive attitude! Remember we are NED!
I love that little easter bunny! We had bunnies for a while, it makes me want another one. Having it in your garden is an excellent idea. I might actually be able to talk my husband into letting me have one for the garden. Your granddaughter is beautiful!
Take care and stay strong.
I am here for you always, Deanna0 -
HUGS, HUGS, HUGS!!!!lindaprocopio said:I meet with the radiation oncologist on Monday for a plan.
I woke up crying last night for the first time in a LONG time. I think it was actually setting the appointments for my post-chemo CT-scan (this Friday!) and consultation with the radiation oncologist (on Monday.) I am also probably at my nadir point with my blood counts and I think that makes me emotional. (I'll find that out Thursday when I go for my 'safety check' blood work.) I wish I weren't so afraid of the long-term radiation side affects. I am so anxious to get this done and be 'out of treatment' after all these many many months. So a big part of me is eager to get the radiation started. But I mourn the possible loss of my easy natural sex life and perfect digestion, and a leaking bladder and painful sex sound so very grim. I plan to use the dilators and get myself back to normal as quickly as I can! I don't think I have a choice about having this, with my Stage III-c UPSC, but I can understand why women with Stage 1 or 2 would decide against it, and roll the dice. I am so grateful that Marge's bladder problems corrected themselves with a little time, and I will hang onto that hopeful outcome. Thanks so much for sharing your experiences!!! My tears always make my husband cry too, so I am glad I can usually keep a good attitude and not give in to self-pity and fear.
Did you hit 'refresh' to see my new little Easter bunny? It's not a very clear photo. I bought him on Sunday and he's like a little kitten how he sits on my lap to be petted. I plan for him to live outside in the hutch in my garden, but while he is so little, I have him in an indoor hutch by my computer so that I can play him. It's a comfort to have a soft little animal to pet, and my grandkids and husband just love him.
Linda, go ahead and cry, it'll make you feel better. It's just so overwhelming when you have to see doctor after doctor and test after test and you just want it to all be over. It will be, soon and I don't think you should worry, NED IS your best friend! Your Granddaughter is beautiful!
I did not use a dilator; as a matter of fact the doctor didn't even ask if I wanted one. It didn't hurt to have intercourse but afterwards it was uncomfortable. Now, no problem. Physical Therapy has gotten to be fun! Sure it's not the same, takes a little more to get the juices flowing, but it's all good.
Y'all are in my prayers and I'm thinking about you everyday.
MIND, BODY AND SOUL!!!!!
Hugs.
P.S. I made an appointment to have a massage on Friday; I can't wait. Maybe it will help my back and ankles plus I like the thought of spoiling myself instead of everyone else.0 -
The massage sounds amazing!shortmarge said:HUGS, HUGS, HUGS!!!!
Linda, go ahead and cry, it'll make you feel better. It's just so overwhelming when you have to see doctor after doctor and test after test and you just want it to all be over. It will be, soon and I don't think you should worry, NED IS your best friend! Your Granddaughter is beautiful!
I did not use a dilator; as a matter of fact the doctor didn't even ask if I wanted one. It didn't hurt to have intercourse but afterwards it was uncomfortable. Now, no problem. Physical Therapy has gotten to be fun! Sure it's not the same, takes a little more to get the juices flowing, but it's all good.
Y'all are in my prayers and I'm thinking about you everyday.
MIND, BODY AND SOUL!!!!!
Hugs.
P.S. I made an appointment to have a massage on Friday; I can't wait. Maybe it will help my back and ankles plus I like the thought of spoiling myself instead of everyone else.
A massage is a great idea, as is treating yourself! I had a GC for a facial from some friends and I went last week. It was so relaxing and makes you feel spoiled for a little while. I also have a GC for a 90 minute pedicure and manicure that I got as a bridal shower gift. I am saving it for a celebration after I finish chemo!
Enjoy that massage and pampering yourself for a while!0 -
Radiation
Hi Gals,
Deanna, lieomyosarcoma is a very rare and aggressive form of cancer. Finding statistics on survival after treatment is impossible. Lieomyosarcoma is a rapid growing cancerous uterine fibroid. It grew over 2 cm in a month. I guess I should go with the aggressive treatment. Better to err on the side of caution.
I'm amazed that two of you comment about the cells clustering around the vaginal cuff. My famous doctor never heard of that! How many more of you know that?
I was told the HDR bracytherapy has few side affects. Maybe diarrhea and itching. Nothing was said about having a full bladder for the procedure nor bladder problems afterward. I'm being treated by two world class hospitals!
Linda, I was crying a lot and my family doctor prescribed Lexapro. It really helps, but after a few weeks I cut the pill in half. Still works good. Your bunny is adorable. What's it's name? We had dutch rabbits when our children were little. When you put it in the garden, make sure the hutch is high enough as an animal (maybe a big dog) broke the wire cage (it was close to the ground so the kids could play with them) and killed one of the rabbits. We live in a housing development and not a rural area where you might expect something like that to happen.
Best wishes to all and will keep you in my prayers.0 -
RadiationRo10 said:Had appointment with Radiation Onocologist today
We have made it back to Illinois and I met with the radiation onocologist today. He recommends 5 - 5 1/2 weeks of external pelvic radiation and then one internal radiation treatment which I will need to be hospitalized for a few days. He said they do not do the internal radiation as an out-patient at this cancer center. I know Teresa talked about having to go into the hospital for her internal radiation. We have not heard from Theresa since she started radiation therapy. I hope she is doing okay.
They did a scan and then the markings today, and I guess what Linda referred to as a "butt mold" today. I will start my radiation treatments on Wednesday. This doctor said my blood counts would not be affected very much by the radiation treatments as the radiation is so focused to the area it is needed. I don't know if this is because my blood counts are very good to start with. He said I would need a full bladder when the treatments are done. This will be accomplished by drinking lots of fluids. They just got a new machine and it is a top of the line machine for radiation therapy. I hope it is all going to work. I want to have NED like so many of you have.
Good luck with your radiation tomorrow Ro. I will be having my last of 25 external radiations tomorrow. I have had nausea everyday from the start of radiation.It starts 2 hours before treatment and last a couple of hours after treatment.I'am really sensitive to smells and just the smell of the hospital, (like rotten apples) makes me sick, so I believe alot of it is mental.Have suffered with diarrea since the 2nd week of treatment. Imodium helps plus I keep Tucks in the upstairs and downstairs bathrooms to ease the burn. I will be admitted in the hospital April 21st for the Cesium Implant and will have to be there from between 1 and 4 days.This hospital like yours does not do out patient internal radiation. (BUMMER).I will give you the details when I get home from the hospital.
Again, good luck with your external radiation Ro, I'll be thinking of you.0 -
radiationEvelyn G said:Radiation
Hi Gals,
Deanna, lieomyosarcoma is a very rare and aggressive form of cancer. Finding statistics on survival after treatment is impossible. Lieomyosarcoma is a rapid growing cancerous uterine fibroid. It grew over 2 cm in a month. I guess I should go with the aggressive treatment. Better to err on the side of caution.
I'm amazed that two of you comment about the cells clustering around the vaginal cuff. My famous doctor never heard of that! How many more of you know that?
I was told the HDR bracytherapy has few side affects. Maybe diarrhea and itching. Nothing was said about having a full bladder for the procedure nor bladder problems afterward. I'm being treated by two world class hospitals!
Linda, I was crying a lot and my family doctor prescribed Lexapro. It really helps, but after a few weeks I cut the pill in half. Still works good. Your bunny is adorable. What's it's name? We had dutch rabbits when our children were little. When you put it in the garden, make sure the hutch is high enough as an animal (maybe a big dog) broke the wire cage (it was close to the ground so the kids could play with them) and killed one of the rabbits. We live in a housing development and not a rural area where you might expect something like that to happen.
Best wishes to all and will keep you in my prayers.
Hello All
As of thursday 4/9 I will be half way thru external pelvic radiation. So far no skin problems but my bladder really doesn't like it. I need to have a full bladder for the treatment. 4 session in I started to have bladder spasms I can contol this with monitoring how full or empty my bladder gets. To full or to empty increases the problem. Yeasterday I had increased pain with urination the doctor suggested increasing my cranberry juice intake and gave me a med call phenazopyrid it has turned my urine to a pretty color of orange but has made it much easier to urinate. As for my bowels a few loose stools but have Imodium if it gets bad. Radiation does not hurt but laying on my stomach face down for 7 minutes every day can be hard but some time a few minute nap feels good. Not looking forward to internal as laying on my back with my legs up for 45 minutes does not sound like fun but at least it can be done out patien. I have stage IIb endometrial Cancer with robotic hys on 2/20.0 -
Hello,
glad you are half-way
Hello,
glad you are half-way thru your treatment - surprised that you are laying on your stomach, as for all of my external treatments, I was on my back and "machine" scanned me with technologists behind in a glass enclosure where they monitored me and the "machine" - prior to the start of treatments, I spend several hours being "marked" for the treatments and the creation of a mold which my legs were placed in each day to ensure proper positioning kellyw0 -
I live in Quincy Illinoisdeanna14 said:We are practically neighbors...
Where are you at in Illinois. I live in Missouri... Springfield area. I am glad you are back and have a plan for your radiation. I bet you are relieved to have some concrete for the next leg of your journey. Radiation is not too bad. Listen to the full bladder advise. I did that, but I am just now starting have some difficulty with my bladder leaking. They tell me that it is from the scarring to the bladder from radiation. The bladder, I guess becomes less elastic and shrink, creating small bladder capacity. I am having leaking if my bladder becomes to full. This is particulary happening at night while sleeping, pretty humiliating. Then tell me that it will get better as I become more in tune with the "new sensation."
As far as the blood counts, they checked them before my first treatment and then not again until radiation was complete and I was ready to start chemo. You probably won't have any problem. You didn't with your first 3 chemos!
Soon, very soon Ro... we are all going to be NED together. Won't that be wonderful!
Good luch with your radiation, I will be thinking about you!
PS... I finally got chemo #4 today. My magnesium was low, but they just gave me some IV (took 4 hours). They also said they had thrown the book at me on the first 3 treatments, so they lowered my carboplatin by 1/3. I'm thinkin I'll probably end up with a 7th treatment because of the lower dose, but what's one more?! As long as I get NED and he stays! lol
Love,
Deanna
We are quite a distance from each other. My sisters and I have had "sister's get-a-ways" in Branson Missouri mamy times, so I have been to Springfield Missouri when we were at Branson. The doctor told me the full bladder is to push the small bowel away and cause less side effects from the radiation. He said the bladder side effects could be treated. Peggy talked about how important it was to have good fluid intake while taking the radiation therapy. I guess that won't be a problem with a full bladder every day. I feel for you with the leaking problem. I had my blood drawn today and will have it rechecked every 2 weeks. The doctor said since I had chemo already they would check the blood count.
I am glad you were able to get your 4th chemo. I hope you are feeling okay after this treatment. I am surprised your Magnesium was low. I don't know that I have had my magnesium checked with the blood work. They told me the carbo dosage was based on your creatine clearance. My first dose was higher than my second and third doses (which were the same dosage). I did not see that much difference in the creatine clearance in the lab results, but they individualize the dosages for everyone. Wishing that we all get to have NED. Take care of yourself and get the rest you need. HUGs to you.0 -
Glad to hear from you TeresaTeresa 61 said:Radiation
Good luck with your radiation tomorrow Ro. I will be having my last of 25 external radiations tomorrow. I have had nausea everyday from the start of radiation.It starts 2 hours before treatment and last a couple of hours after treatment.I'am really sensitive to smells and just the smell of the hospital, (like rotten apples) makes me sick, so I believe alot of it is mental.Have suffered with diarrea since the 2nd week of treatment. Imodium helps plus I keep Tucks in the upstairs and downstairs bathrooms to ease the burn. I will be admitted in the hospital April 21st for the Cesium Implant and will have to be there from between 1 and 4 days.This hospital like yours does not do out patient internal radiation. (BUMMER).I will give you the details when I get home from the hospital.
Again, good luck with your external radiation Ro, I'll be thinking of you.
I've been wondering how you have been doing. I am glad you are finished with your external radiation treatments. Sorry to hear about your nausea everyday. That is not fun. Sorry about the diarrhea, too. The second week of treatment is what most people have said they experienced. Did you follow a low fiber diet when the diarrhea started? That will be hard for me as I eat a lot of fiber right now with fresh fruits and vegetables. But if it helps with the diarrhea I'll do my best to follow a low fiber diet. What about fatigue? Did you have much fatigue with the radiation treatments. Have you been able to care for your daughter like you did before. I hope you have been able to.
Did you get arrangements made for your daughter when you are in the hospital. Does the hospital you are going to have any type of "Repite" room? This is where people who need care can stay while their caregivers are in the hospital, or just need a break from caregiving.
My first treatment went well. One down, 27 more to go. I did not know if there would be a break between the external and internal radiation. But I see it is almost a 2 week break for you. Will you have a rest period before you start your last chemo treatments? I have not asked those questions yet. I don't know if it depends on what blood counts are when you can start chemo again. Did your hair start to grow back while you were off chemo. I wondered if mine would start to come back, and then fall out more quickly the second time. I'll be anxious to hear how you internal radiation goes. Thanks for keeping me informed. Take care of yourself. HUGS to you.0 -
I too am surprised you lay on your stomachnursey420 said:radiation
Hello All
As of thursday 4/9 I will be half way thru external pelvic radiation. So far no skin problems but my bladder really doesn't like it. I need to have a full bladder for the treatment. 4 session in I started to have bladder spasms I can contol this with monitoring how full or empty my bladder gets. To full or to empty increases the problem. Yeasterday I had increased pain with urination the doctor suggested increasing my cranberry juice intake and gave me a med call phenazopyrid it has turned my urine to a pretty color of orange but has made it much easier to urinate. As for my bowels a few loose stools but have Imodium if it gets bad. Radiation does not hurt but laying on my stomach face down for 7 minutes every day can be hard but some time a few minute nap feels good. Not looking forward to internal as laying on my back with my legs up for 45 minutes does not sound like fun but at least it can be done out patien. I have stage IIb endometrial Cancer with robotic hys on 2/20.
I was surprised to hear you are on your stomach for your radiation treatments. I too had a mold made to keep me on my back and my legs in a certain postion. My markings are on each hip and over the pubic bone. The machine rotates to give the radiation to each of these areas. Sorry to hear about your bladder spasms, and your painful urination. Glad you got some medicine for the burning. I have only had a few urinary tract infections and it does hurt to urinate. I guess I will add cranberry juice as my juice in the morning. I am hoping that when I have my internal radiation (that I have as an in-patient) that I don't have to lay on my back all the time. I am not very good at that. I sleep on my side, or stomach (which I know I shouldn't), but I wake up on my stomach all the time. Take care of yourself. HUGS to you0
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