Radiation Simulation

Well, I was partially right. I got tattoos but they were not for where the protons go. It’s where my body lines up with the CT machine.

I’ve had CT scans in the past but I’m still unsure how the radiation happens. We’ll find out April 4th.

Most of my appointments were for studies through Mayo. One was a urine sample (I am NOT pregnant), and then the actual “simulation.” The simulation is positioning me laying on a CT bed with my arms up behind my head. They measure the distance between my elbows. I had some face mask made so my chin stays out of the proton beams. So that’s the position I’ll be in for 25 sessions, 45 minutes at a time.

The tattoos were more like stick-pokes. They put some UV fluid on you – 2 dots vertically on my chest and upper stomach. One dot on either side of my lower rib cage. Then they came back around with a needle and poke you with it. They are TEENY pink dots. Hard to see. But that’s how they’ll line me up when I go in for radiation.

I was able to get out a little early so I traveled to a nearby garden center where I picked out some plants. Plants were one of my pandemic hobbies. I manage to keep pothos and philodendrons alive; I was able to find a couple pretty ones to take home.

Found out that there’s a waiting list for Hope House. That means I need to find another place ASAP. Like I needed a second mortgage but I can’t do a 4 hour drive every day, especially if I’m fatigued or have appointments at midnight. So now I’m looking at AirBNBs and apartments. Any leads would be appreciated!

I’m feeling the squeeze. It’ll work out, in the end. Hopefully. Cross those fingers for me!