Just one more point of view about radiation - I had 37 treatments to both sides, really all around, and it wasn't horrible. Yes, I burned, but there were meds to handle that. I got a little tired, but still was out and about. Anyway, it is not necessarily a terrible experience. The first six weeks were pretty much a piece of cake, and it was only the last week that I was draggin' my wagon a bit. Sure, be prepared for some discomfort, but this is not a terrible torture. And however one reacts, it is a small price to pay for getting rid of the cancer. You and Tom can get though this!