The New Year brings new treatment

Hi, Tracie. Good to hear from you.

Wow, more drive time that treatment time for you! Hang in there. As you said, it's worth it. Keep us posted on how things are going for you.

Here's some great info from our patient expert Jacki Donaldson on dealing with radiation:

Radiation 101: Your Guide to Radiation

http://www.healthcentral.com/breast-cancer/coping-with-treatment-1497-5.html

Write again soon.

Best,

Maria

I was intrigued by your comment about participating in a study using a breathing apparatus...unless I am assuming too much, I think that I am using that same apparatus for my radiation treatments...and it's just a matter of course, not experimental! They said they are using this procedure because they are radiating my left breast, which would normally put my heart in line with the field of radiation-of course, not a good thing. They call it "respiratory gaiting" (I think)...they did CT scans during my simulation sessions and had me hold my breath so they could "track" this small plastic box they put on my belly. The box is a part of every treatment for now. Once I'm all set up on the table and the coordinates are lined up, they leave the room, shut the big metal door and instruct me over an intercom to take in a breath. They watch ("track") the box via closed circuit camera and tell me if I need to take in more or let out some air. Once it's the right amount, they turn on the machine while I hold my breath for 30-45 seconds. Then again from the opposite side and I'm done, unless they are taking "films." Does this sound like what you're having done, or is it something different?

Jolene