Elaine, sometimes it is the people who have problems who post here most often, which is as it should be. That said, I certainly felt a lot better two weeks after the end of rad/chemo. By that time the flow of "wallpaper paste" had abated and I had considerably more energy. Long before the rad burns had healed, I was out and about and having a great time. So be optimistic.

One thing I want to say with great emphasis is that your husband should not feel ANY pain! There are very good meds available and he or you should definitely let the nurses and/or doc know if Sam is hurting. Pain only delays healing, physically and emotionally. There are lots of meds stronger than what he is using, so if necessary, do not hesitate to ask for them.