Overview of Treatment

My primary treatment at the Arthur Child Comprehensive Cancer Center consists of daily radiation sessions—thirty-three in total, scheduled every weekday from September 2nd to October 20th.

Preparation for Radiation

The journey began with the creation of a personalized radiation mask just one day after my initial consultation with the oncologist. The radiation technicians were exceptionally caring, trying to make the experience as relaxing as possible—offering warm blankets and spa music. As I lay on the table, beautiful photographs of flowers adorned the ceiling above me. Once I was comfortable and properly positioned, the technicians marked my chest with a small "tattoo" to help align me accurately with the lasers each day. A warm plastic mesh was then carefully molded over my face and massaged to fit all contours, ensuring my head and neck would be in the same position for each session so the radiation beam could target the tumor precisely. They also performed a new CT scan of my head and neck to capture the latest measurements of my tumor.

Daily Routine

Each day, I change into a hospital gown and house coat before my treatment. The wait is usually brief, and two friendly technicians greet me. First, they confirm my identity by asking my name and date of birth. The treatment table is pre-adjusted for my body, and my legs are comfortably elevated. An amusing detail—my thick Portoguese Horsehair always draws comments, as the technicians must sweep it aside to secure the mask. My hands are restrained to keep my arms at my sides, ensuring I stay perfectly still throughout the session.

Under the Mask

The very first time the mask was placed on me for treatment, I must admit, I felt a surge of panic. The sensation is intensely claustrophobic and restrictive, and it felt even more so when they literally lock me down to the table at my shoulders. The mask presses tightly, requiring me to push my nose and chin upward against it. Thank GOD for my PQ reps and breathing exercises—I immediately focus on slowing my breath, closing my eyes, and entering a calm mental space. My goal is to steady my breathing to about six breaths per minute.

As the machine starts, I continue to do PQ reps by using my fingers to feel the warm blanket. I sometimes wiggle my toes in my shoes to help me stay present. I also try to listen to the music from beneath the loud whirring and banging noises of the radiation machine as it rotates around my head.

The actual treatment on the table lasts about ten minutes. Over time, I became almost conditioned—like Pavlov’s dog—to anticipate the chime that signals the end of the session. When the bell sounds, I know the treatment is finished. The technicians come in, lower the table, and finally unlock my mask. Another day complete!