6/25 – Radiologist: Cleveland Rocks or does it Radiate?

I met with my radiologist and we talked through some questions. He looked at the sight and confirmed the reoccurance was in the field of radiation (which is not great, that means the cancer “beat” the radiation the first time). He then explained that we’re looking to do the chemo followed by surgery to remove the skin, then we’ll use radiation to “sterilize” the area. The question I asked was how we can radiate skin that has already be radiated…

He is recommending a special type of radiation called hyperthermia radiation. This is a process where they warm the skin, making the cancer cells more vulnerable to the radiation. There is one women who does this at the Cleveland Clinic and apparently she is the best. I’m working to get an appointment with her. The treatment would be in Cleveland twice a day for five days a week for four weeks. My doctor said he has sent a few patients to her and they have all had success. I can do this treatment 3-4 weeks after surgery (I’m thinking Oct/Nov timeline) He mentioned she has amazing success rates overall. I liked this approach and am anxiously awaiting a discussion with her. Also knocking on wood that I’m one of her successes. The travel is not bothersome, as I’ve been traveling weekly for years now. Maybe I can pick up a Cleveland client.

I also asked about the pain in my back and chest. He showed me the PET scan and walked through it, showing us that there wasn’t anything detected. He mentioned the muscle and chest tightness is a common side effect with radiation and wasn’t concerned about the pain.

So I’ll keep you posted. I also owe you an updated timeline and the debrief from my oncologist today. (Hopefully I’ll post tonight)