10 of 33 - Week #2

Second Week Done - 10 Treatments In!

Today marked treatment number 10 - one full punch card down! That leaves 23 more to go. I’ve officially wrapped up week two and I’m feeling pretty good about it.

So far, my skin is holding up really well. No redness, no pink. Every morning, I apply Miaderm lotion before heading to treatment. When I get home, I sometimes do another round of Miaderm, and before bed, I slather on a nice thick layer of Aquaphor. So far, that routine seems to be working well.

Last night, I thought I noticed a light tan developing on my right breast. Maybe it’s just my imagination - I’m hyper-aware of every little change right now. But a slight tan is something they say will happen, so maybe I’m just starting to see the first signs.

Deodorant has been a bit of a challenge. I’m not supposed to wear any before treatment, and since it’s summer in Florida… let’s just say my right underarm isn’t always as fresh as I’d like. It’s a small thing, but still frustrating.

On Tuesday, I had my weekly check-in with my radiation oncologist. She said everything looks great and she’s very happy with how things are going. That’s a huge relief, but I also know these early weeks are usually the easiest. The real challenge comes later, as the cumulative effects build up. I’m hopeful I’ll sail through without major issues, but I’m also staying realistic.

That same day, I also met with a new gynecologist for a consultation about the BRIP1 mutation. We discussed surgery to remove my ovaries, and I’ll be moving forward with that later this year. I’ve got a blood test and an ultrasound lined up as part of the prep. Honestly, I’m not too worried - it sounds pretty straightforward. I’m thinking November might be a good time for the procedure. That way, I’ll have time to recover from radiation and enjoy a little stretch of feeling normal before diving into another big thing.

By the way - did you know they now offer nitrous oxide for gynecological procedures? How amazing is that? It’s about time!

On Thursday, I went in for a regular dental cleaning and checkup. I’m trying to keep up with every aspect of my health, even in the midst of all this. Appointments like these matter, too. I know I need to do more on the dental front, which is frustrating - there just isn’t a lot of free time right now. But it is what it is. I’ll handle it.

I feel most at ease when things are planned and organized. Once radiation is behind me, I think I’ll be able to truly exhale. Right now, it’s the anticipation and uncertainty that feel the hardest. But each completed session is one step closer to the finish line.

And let me just say - weekends feel like a gift now. No radiation, no long drives... and I get to wear deodorant again! It really is the little things.