Hello again everyone,

the real issue here is that if do decide to go with radiation, there is a very high probability that we'd be "mopping where there is no dirt" (to use the words of the radiation oncologist I've been consulting). So, Brian, I really DON'T know if there are any malignant cells in me--no one does. If I did, getting the radiation and anything else I'd need would be a no brainer.

The prospect of going through a harsh, physically grueling treatment for no reason, especially when it can cause permanent damage, is just very difficult to accept.

I had a long talk with the head of radiation at the CCC where I'm being treated, and he repeated over and over again that he is not able to give me a solid recommendation of whether or not I should get radiation. In effect, he made it abundantly clear that any suggestion he (or anyone else) gives me would be purely speculative and not grounded on anything factual/objective/scientific. Ultimately, therefore, it is little more than a judgement call.

He also mentioned that while radiation is usually started 6 weeks after surgery, up to three months is acceptable.

I will decide after I see the people at Anderson. I just hope I'm able to see them soon.

Gino