I'm t i r e d

Thanks to everyone for all the encouragement after my last post!

It's just like old times; I started working from home three weeks ago. Snickers lays next to my desk and keeps me company. Going in to the office was too much for me. At home I'm able to take breaks and there is far less walking. I'm doing GoToMeeting video conferences and phone calls to stay connected to my projects.

I'm still very tired though. It's a tired that I can't even describe. My body is working so hard to continually heal itself from radiation and every day we zap it again. My nurse described radiation treatment as being as taxing as running five miles everyday. And for me, who is not a runner, that's saying something!

My skin has moved beyond irritated and is now angry. It's a lot like a bad sunburn except that there isn't the hot feeling. It's more itchy and generally uncomfortable, and definitely sensitive to friction! It is amazing that the treatment is so precise. There is a perfect square that runs from my sternum to my armpit down my side, over and back up. It's definitely 'whole breast' treatment. This week though, they have changed to targeting just the area where my cancer was.

It's still a challenge to get enough good calories and nutritious snacks. My dad suggested protein shakes (props to dad!) so I've been drinking the new Ensure Clear blueberry pomegranate drinks. Not chalky and I actually have gotten to like them.

I'm in the home stretch - only 4 treatments left! We are planning on having the kids come with to the last treatment. Roger Maris Cancer Center has a bell mounted by the front door. After your last treatment, you get to ring the bell. Everyone there knows about the bell and they all start clapping. I can't wait until it's my turn!