Hi Harriet - radiation is no picnic, but you'd be amazed a how strong you are. If the dr recommends it, do it. Overall from beginning to the light at the end of he tunnel it's about 8 -9 weeks. At that point things will begin to slowly heal. The actual radiation usually runs 6-7 weeks, then works for two more weeks - maybe a little more depending on your personal health, ability to heal, nutrition etc.. And then it's one month for every week of radiation to reach your new normal - mind you that's a ball park figure - I still improve daily and my surgery was a year ago yesterday - and radiation 9 mos ago. It sounds like your issues are in the very early stages - hopefully things will be okay and not as difficult. Good luck.