As I suspected would happen, I wasn't able to get radiation started before the holidays. I met with the radiation oncologist about 10 days before Christmas, and she promptly went on vacation. What is it with these doctors? First the surgeon went on vacay, then I had to wait to see my medical oncologist for the initial consult because she was off on a trip, and now the radiation oncologist? If I didn't know better, I'd think there was a conspiracy. Is there something in my chart that makes them think they need to retreat and prepare to deal with me?
I jest.
Anyway, on this round, we were at least able to make a little progress while the doc was away. I met briefly with her covering doc, who supervised the techs on the next stage. They rolled me in and out of a CAT scan a few times to get measurements of the affected area and then drew a couple of Xs on me with a Sharpie marker so they can line me up properly the next time. I look at the marks as being like the register marks that commercial printers use to align colors on press. They have clear stickers over them so they don't fade out, but I still have to be careful in the shower so they don't peel off. Great.
Usually it takes seven to ten days for the doc to come up with the treatment plan and get things started, but given the holidays, I didn't hear from the hospital until two days ago. I go back in on Monday for more specific markings and a dry run, and the actual run of radiation starts on Tuesday.
Woo hoo.
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