Phase 2 Begins

Welp, phase 2 has begun.

I went to MGH for my prep for radiation. I didn't go to the proton therapy center. It was the main radiation oncology center. I won't be receiving my treatment there, but most of the people there were getting treatment for all different types of cancer I imagine.

It was a dose of reality for sure. Some people were very happily chatting. Many seemed to know each other, so I imagine a lot of people are scheduled at around the same time and have gotten to know each other in the waiting room. That was kind of nice. One guy, who was in his late twenties probably, was having his last treatment today. His mom (I presume) was telling everyone and was obviously very happy, proud, relieved, you-name-it. I couldn't help but feel a little happy, proud, relieved for him too.

There were some people there though that looked, well, sick. There was a guy in a wheelchair (40s maybe) and his relative pulled out a pouch and dispensed about 7 or 8 different medications from pill bottles and passed them to him.

Another woman, probably a couple of years younger than me, was wheeled out of some room and sat in the waiting area looking incredibly fatigued. Her clothes and hair looked like she had a much sassier personality than she had the energy to muster.

A nurse came out for me with the two dreaded bottles of barium in hand. Suh-weet. I opted for the straw over the cup and, actually, it wasn't as bad this time. It was grape flavored, but at least they didn't make it purple and pretend it was grape soda. When I told D it was better than the "banana smoothie" variety, he remarked that "everything here is better." in reference to our recent experiences at BI.

Then we went to talk to the radiation oncologist who went over every possible thing that can go wrongm but is highly unlikely to, and then he handed me a pen.

After that I had my setup catscan (I know "setup" is not the official name for this, but the real name escapes me, sorry!) I had to strip from the waste down (with one of those flimsy robes) and they basically poked and pushed me around on the table until they felt they had the right position.

Then I got my "tattoo"! They took little needles (like a sewing needle I imagine) and made four little dots on my stomach and sides with (permanent?) ink, so they'll know how to line me up on the equipment when I start.

It was all a bit odd. Not least of which was some of the small talk these guys make to put me at ease before they see me half naked and stick needles in my stomach. ("Do you feel like you've been here forever?" "What an interesting watch!" "Where do you live?") I do appreciate the effort though. It's better than wondering what they're thinking.

....I'm feeling like this post is a bit long. I'm going to pick up with the rest tomorrow. Ciao.