Thanks for your reply. I agree that the rad & chemo were a walk in the park. I have had little or no pain going thru it and little pain now. The second opinion came from Fox Chase Cancer Center. I see you are in PA. If you are in the Philly area you know about Fox Chase. They have a very good reputation; cancer is all they do as far as I know. I do intend to call and start asking some questions about this infection since our research suggests that I should be getting antibiotics. I guess I'm going to have to find a better way of coming to terms with what I'm facing. I didn't know that I would have trouble healing after radiation. I thought it was just a few months that the radiation stays in your system and then your free and clear. I won't pretend that I haven't been depressed and now this is just dragging me down. I did get outside today and worked on the yard and pool. I was able to keep my mind occupied with that unless a sad song I could relate to would come on the radio. There is still a part of me that is a fighter; a survivor and I have great friends and family ready to rally for me any time. I'm just confused, frustrated and upset. The idea of being disfigured for a long time (and maybe forever), is a very depressing prospect! How do I deal with my own vanity? I am reluctant to go out in public but I do it. Up until now, I convinced myself that this is temporary and it will only be a few months before I'm back to my old self! How do I "let go" of that notion? I sure have a lot to learn!!
Pat