Radioactive

I began radiation recently and again, had to call the hospital and follow up multiple times regarding the start date. Based on some studies I have read (click here for an example), the optimal time to start radiation is within 6 weeks after surgery. For some women who get an infection or have complications after surgery, this is not possible, however, I was healing well and had no issues so couldn't understand what was taking so long. After speaking with the Radiologist, they corrected me that the optimal window is actually 12 weeks but why wait that long? In my mind, sooner is better so after a couple calls, I started radiation 7 weeks after surgery. I write about this because it is just another example of why it is so important to be your own advocate. Yes, it may be uncomfortable to be "pushy" with the doctor, you definitely already have enough to deal with and it may be exhausting to follow up every day but this is your health and it is worth it.

The other thing I wanted to write about is Mepitel film which can prevent or at least reduce radiotherapy skin reactions. It is a breathable dressing that is applied to the area being treated which in my case is the breast and armpit. You wear it all day every day for the full course of radiation which can be annoying, especially if you live somewhere with warm weather as it is hard to cover up. I have been showering and working out with it on and haven't had any problems other than patches peeling off so the radiation technicians replace them. My view was that if the claims are correct and it reduces skin reactions by 80-90%, it was worth the inconvenience and cost (approximately $200-$300 for the full course of radiation depending on how much film is needed). I spoke to a few women that used it and either had no skin reaction or it was very mild. If you are interested and want to ask your Radiologist about it, here is the study that was done: http://www.molnlycke.com/news-media/wound-care/mepitel-film-prevents-radiotherapy-skin-reaction/. It is still considered experimental at this point although from what I understand, women in Europe have been using it for years. My Radiologist ensured me that it did not affect the effectiveness of the radiation so why not give it is try.

I haven't completed radiation yet so cannot comment on the end result but so far so good. I will post an update later!