I had my radiation treatment and an appointment with the doctor today. The radiation appointment was at 10:30 while the doctor’s appointment was at 1. With the 3 hr spread I figured that I had enough time to go home and eat as I need to eat as much as I can. The appointment in the morning was an hr behind schedule. They had some difficulties with a patient that delayed things quite a bit. During my wait, I filled out a patient satisfaction survey and think that they have been doing a great job so far with my treatment and my interactions with. I also had to run out and put more time for my visit. The treatment itself went well. By the time I was done it was noon and I went home quickly to get some food prior to my doctor appointment. I feel for the radiation team when things outside of their control impact their day and things start to fall behind. Patients may get cranky or make things difficult for the team. They handle things well. When I showed up I told them that I was super-stressed out from the delays, but then I told them that I was just kidding. It was entertaining for me to see how apologetic and nice they were.
Today was the first time I physically met my oncologist. He had his resident come see me first and we had a nice chat and then he showed up. He checked the lymph nodes in my neck and it seemed fine. There was a discussion about my treatment plan and how I was dealing with my treatment. He said that with the cumulative impact things should build after 3 or 4 weeks for both. I may end up taking holidays during the last week to recover. Since I handle treatment so well we may continue with chemo treatment for 4 weeks or so afterwards.
I also realized that during some point I need to slow down. The doctor said that he would write me a note to get me off of work. I am trying to avoid that right now, but will take some time off in August so I can rest a bit. I just do not see the purpose of taking time off when I am undergoing treatment since it is not super restful.
1. ) Over the weekend I received a visit from some friends with a care package of treats and cabbage rolls. It reminds me of when I was younger and grew up with. I appreciate the food and the thoughts from friends and family. I am grateful for the care packages of delicious food.
2.) People at work are concerned about me and ask questions. When I mentioned that I am slowly using weight at a couple of pounds per week because of the adjustments to my schedule. I need to fast for 2 hrs prior to radiation and it takes me 30 minutes to eat as well as being gone for 45 minutes to an hour. So this creates a 3 hr time span where I am not eating. A colleague suggested that I try massive weight gain or high caloric intake shakes. I bought one that has 1250 calories per serving with 60grams of protein. We will see how this goes.
Quoc Hao