My experience with Radiation was for the most part good. From the people making my mask to the Techs themselves. I find that if you want people to talk to you and show they care sometimes you have to make the first move.

Gary is correct.....I would not want that job either. To see fear, pain and deal with nastiness 12 hours a day would be to much to bare.

Everyday when I went to my treatments I went alone. I did not want family or friends around me for the treatments. But, everyday I had to walk through the Waiting and Treatment area for Chemo patients and by the time I got to the Radiation Department my whole outlook changed. I was the lucky one and had no reason to be sad, bitter or drowning in self pity.

My treatments took place in the Alan Blair Cancer Center while under construction and the expansion. So everyday I saw a wide range of ages receiving Chemo Therapy. The older people, (I was 36 at the time) all had long faces and looked like they had given up hope. Yet in the same area you would see a Mother or Father with their 5 year old who was receiving treatment. The parents looking unsure and frightened, as I'm sure we would all be if it was our child. But, the 5 year old was sitting playing with the toys or listening to Mom or Dad read them a story and not one indication that they felt sorry for themselves. To them it was another place to play and spend time with their parents. All be it not an ideal or always pleasant place but none the less a place. I always said these little people have got to be the bravest of all. And if they can do it I sure as hell should be able to. I talked to the Techs about the differences between the adult patient and the children. They agreed the kids are amazing and that most adults should take a lesson from them.

I learned to appreciate everything the Radiation team did. From the Receptionist who hardly catches a break from ringing phones to patients snapping their heads off because they had to wait 20 minutes past their appointment time. To the people in the treatment rooms. Did anyone ever think to bring them Donuts, Flowers or even a Thank You Card. I can tell you it helped.................
David