Administrator, Director of Patient Support Services Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) Joined: Jun 2007 Posts: 10,507 Likes: 7 | Welcome to OCF, Joan! I know its horrible going thru radiation. Ive done it too. I wanted to quit. I even tried to quit but my nurse wouldnt let me. My son said to me "You are going if I have to carry you in there, so either get dressed or you are going in your pajamas". He was only 17 at the time. Im happy to see others have welcomed you and reinforced the fact that the best chance to beat this is to finish the treatments.
You have found a terrific resource for info and guidance. When you need someone to lean on we are always here. Hang in there we will help get you thru this!
I want to clarify and expand some info about using cream on your skin prior to getting radiation treatments. Cheryl is correct about using a good cream to help soothe your skin. There are many over the counter ones available and also some prescription creams that will work even better. When putting cream on, always pat it on. Never rub it in. Apply it several times per day, but NEVER before going to a radiation treatment. It can cause problems if used immediately before having a treatment. I would keep the cream in my purse and pat some on when I finished my treatment. I would reapply it a few more times. After showering, pat your neck and face dry and apply another coat of the cream. Allow the cream to soak in by itself. If you forget and apply creams before your radiation treatment, take a warm wet washcloth and very gently wipe it off before your treatment.
Best wishes with your successful upcoming completion!
Last edited by ChristineB; 11-22-2011 09:59 PM. Reason: add info
ChristineSCC 6/15/07 L chk & by L molar both Stag I, age44 2x cispltn-35 IMRT end 9/27/07 -65 lbs in 2 mo, no caregvr Clear PET 1/08 4/4/08 recur L chk Stag I surg 4/16/08 clr marg 215 HBO dives 3/09 teeth out, trismus 7/2/09 recur, Stg IV 8/24/09 trach, ND, mandiblctmy 3wks medicly inducd coma 2 mo xtended hospital stay, ICU & burn unit PICC line IV antibx 8 mo 10/4/10, 2/14/11 reconst surg OC 3x in 3 years very happy to be alive |