Home Stretch in Here Be Dust

I’ve been thankful to have a four-day break between the end of my first phase of radiation and the start of my second phase, “boost” radiation. The boost phase guards against cancer recurring at the tumor site. According to Breastcancer.org, “Most people get their boost dose with a special form of external radiation called electrons. This form is used because the dose can be targeted specifically to a small area near the skin surface, sparing the tissue underneath.”

Last Wednesday I got my new markings, reduced to an oval circle defining the location of my tumor bed. Clicking on the link will bring up the photo, which includes the areola.

Speaking of which, I’ve been dealing with an areola blister. It looks like crap – at this point, that whole part of my breast looks like crap – but it’s not bad as far as pain goes. I rate it a 2 out of 10.

(M guessed that number right on the nose. I was impressed.)

I’m psyched that my radiation is entering its final week, which will also include a follow-up with my main oncologist. M had a sebaceous cyst removed last week and will get her stitches out this week as well. Luckily, the dermatologist and radiation center are only about a mile apart.

I did “Emerging” out of a sense of renewal as I finish up active treatment (defined as surgery/chemo/radiation). The self-portrait is based on my Sept. 5 photo here. I’ve added in some newly-grown hair. :-)

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