Have you had your radiation extended?

I just got back from my 25th treatment (5 weeks) and was told in the beginning I would have 30 or 6 weeks. A few weeks ago they informed me the onc. sometimes adds 3 treatments at the end, I'm guessing boosters. That bummed me but I thought maybe since my tumor was small (1.6 cm) and no lymph node involvement the odds would be in my favor to not need it. Well they told me today that I will have 5 extra treatments for a total of 35 or 7 weeks! Now I didn't come all this way to stop or back out now. But what a shock to my pyche (sp?)!!!! I was getting all keyed up for next Friday to be the last and now an extra week?! I'm so bummed and a little puzzled too. Why? The tech said to be happy that the onc. is paying close attention and being careful but they didn't give me a reason. Once a week I see the onc. and the same day they take films too. But this week they did them on different days and the day after the films the tech told me they were going to be giving me my treatment and then setting things up for the boosts. So the onc. came into the treatment room and helped get the settings done. That was Wednesday and now this. Is there some sort of connection between the films and the extended booster treatments? Could they pick something up on the films?

Worry, worry, worry. I know MK, I can hear you saying "blah, blah, blah...till theres something to worry about" tongue I just can't help worrying though.

Anyone else have this happen? If so what was the explanation? I know I should ask the onc. but right now I'm in such a down mood that I will cry just talking to him.

Thanks,

Mia,

So sorry that this has you feeling so down. I know how much you were looking forward to being through with the rads next week.

I wish that I could help you out on why they might be doing this. It has been so long since I had rads, but I do remember that they added a few at the end and it was after they had taken films. Put your faith and trust in the professionals sweetie, I am sure that they are doing this for your benefit.

Keep that chin up that you have held high so far. It won't be long now.......just look how far you have come already.

Maybe you will feel like asking the onc. on Monday. Give yourself a break from all of this over the weekend and just enjoy being with family.

Hugs and Love,
Debbie
^j^ ^j^

Hi Mia,

I had 3 booster treatments that weren't scheduled till about 2 weeks before my rads ended. They were tougher than the other treatments, and I did get some burning and ultimately an infection from it. But supposedly it's necessary. They watch you VERY CAREFULLY to make sure they catch any problems as soon as they arise. And breast tissue does heal very quickly. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I was almost completely healed within one week. And most women have no problems during their booster series. So just lay back and enjoy, and know the worst is nearly over. Sending prayers your way.

L&H,
Rita

What a bummer.  I know you are so disappointed.  It's been a week and 2 days since my surgery and I haven't even started rads yet, but I want to learn all I can about what to expect.  Mine was 1.2 cm and no nodes.....and I went for my post op yesterday,  He made me appointment to meet with his oncologist friend the first of May. Wants to talk to me about chemo......Did you have chemo?  I just don't want it...........Anyway...so sorry, but just think,  it will all be over soon and there are others out there just starting......LIKE ME!!!!!!!!!!!

Hugs and good luck,

Janis

Hi Mia,
Sometimes it does seem as though we keep getting thrown these new things at all the time, doesn't it. I just learned I have to have another simulation for the "boost". First, I thought the simulations were all behind me (had a terrible, painful time), and now another one and no one has really explained the boost to me. I plan to get a clear explanation tomorrow from the oncologist. I was always scheduled for 33 treatments, so it would seem you are in the ballpark. I remember you took the Oncotype DX test and was a three on the scoring. I mention this because Janis is concerned about having to have chemo, and thought she should push for the test as well. Hope you read this Janis! I too had a small tumor, 1.3 cm, and no lymph node involvment. I had the test and scored 16, just in the low range, but it meant I could more safely choose no chemo. Do look into it and write back, please. Again, Mai, hang in there and continue to take good care of your skin, and you should be fine.
Love, Jean in WA