Saturday, January 21, 2012

Radiation and Livestrong at the YMCA

I started radiation this week with my first session on Thursday afternoon. It was relatively easy and definitely painless but for some reason, it bothered me more than chemo. It seemed scarier than chemo.

Laying on the table with this giant machine circling me, it almost felt like the machine had a mind of its own. It zooms in and out to target the spots on my body that it needs to zap. Obviously the radiology technicians are operating it, but it seems like a bad science fiction movie to me.

At my session on Friday night, I decided to just close my eyes, relax and visualize positive healing. I visualized the machine treating all the right spots and the radiation zapping any lingering cancer cells. This technique definitely helped me get into a more positive frame of mind.

In other news... I forgot to mention that my oncologist recommended a program to me called Livestrong at the YMCA. It is a 12-week program to help adult cancer survivors successfully transition from treatment to wellness. The program is offered at three YMCAs in my area but none of them are very close. The only facility that offers the program in the evening is 25 miles away. I may do it anyway after I finish my radiation treatments. A few miles of driving every day would be worth it if it helps me regain my health.

4 comments:

  1. I think radiation is extra scary because it is lonely. It happens quickly, but there isn't anyone in the room with you when it happens.

    I suggest that you really consider joining the group. The transition out of treatment is challenging and a good healthy group that can support you sounds great!

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  2. I had no idea that's what radiation was! It *does* sound like a science fiction movie!!!

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  3. I have heard great things about that Livestrong program at the Y! Best of luck with radiation!

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