I have quite a lot to say regarding radiation, not all of it horrible. In fact, quite a bit of the experience is fascinating. But given the context, I am having a hard time choosing a starting point. Today marks 70% done with treatments and while the burns are seriously bad, it could be worse (perhaps more on that in another post). I can barely tolerate clothing, and comfort measures are limited, because the best stuff would scatter radiation all over the place. Think of a sunburn from sternum to arm pit with the most severe bits being at the bra line and on all the scars from surgery. Aloe has stopped being helpful. Aquaphor (like a petroleum jelly) is moderately helpful, more important for maintaining skin hydration than for pain management.
I’m healing well from the hysterectomy, still on lifting restrictions (doubled down from radiology not wanting that arm stressed anyway). No doing laundry for me! Really, you local folks, do call before visiting because clothing….
All in all, radiation is still better than chemo. I am emotionally worn out. I miss managing my kitchen, I think. Maybe I don’t. As of Monday, my fledgling adult children will both be back at U of M for the year, and so it goes. Meanwhile, could I ask for a Benison family greeting in lieu of hugs: index finger high fives (think Sistine Chapel Adam/God). That’s as much touching as I’m able to manage right now.
Rocking Chair Theologian 
How about a vigorous electronic hug? Hug. HUG. HUG. *HUG! *So there! What a bummer! Kill that monster DEAD!
Love you lots!
Judy
Babe.
*Laura Vellenga* *609-647-8401*
On Thu, Aug 22, 2019 at 1:39 PM Rocking Chair Theologian wrote:
> Rocking Chair Theologian posted: ” I have quite a lot to say regarding > radiation, not all of it horrible. In fact, quite a bit of the experience > is fascinating. But given the context, I am having a hard time choosing a > starting point. Today marks 70% done with treatments and w” >
My sweetest friend, thank you so much for the update, as I was wondering tonight how you were doing.
You are one brave woman and we keep thinking and praying for you.
I’ve heard mustard is good in burns but I am not sure you would want to add that to your regiment… 🤪
Ouch!! I can only begin to imagine your discomfort and admire your strength.
You are deeply loved.
Stay strong sister 💕
Well, boo. I mean, “yay, defeating the monster” but “ugh, via another monster”. Sounds seriously miserable and I wish I had some magic salve or a means to kill the monster that involved something far more pleasant like lying on the beach and drinking some cancer-killing, tasty elixir with no miserable side effects. Shall focus on the 70% done meaning you’re nearly there and all the hope at the end – “only” 30% left to go. And keep praying you through this part.