Radiation Day 35: Let the Healing Begin!

Today was radiation day 35. The last day. No more treatments. Not one. Uh-uh. Nope. Zero. Zilch. Nada. And not a moment too soon, because poor Vic—still trying to be as positive as ever—has been feeling worse than ever these past couple of days. So while this next week may still suck, at least nothing more will be adding to the suckitude.

So after Vic's LAST treatment (did I mention today was the last day?) and doctor visit, he was invited to "ring the bell."

He's known about the bell-ringing ceremony for quite some time, so he had been thinking about what he wanted to do. He rang the bell loud and clear. Paused for dramatic effect. He rang the bell again. Pause. He rang the bell again. It was very cinematic, and afterward I cursed myself for not bring the Flip video. Will you settle for a picture?

The staff all applauded resoundingly and said he had done an excellent job with the bell ringing, then posed with him for a picture.

Vic does have a way with the ladies, and these ladies were big fans. They were all super proud of him and said he had come throug the whole experience amazingly.

This lady is pretty proud of him too:


 I couldn't ask for a better husband—or a better role model for how to handle adversity. :-)

So, just a reminder as to next steps:

• Potentially feel like crap for a week.
• See radiation oncologist next week for a follow-up.
• See NotChemo oncologist in two weeks for a follow-up.
• Start to feel better. Eat food. Watch an entire movie without napping.
• Get PET scan to see how effective the treatment was in three months.

And of course, I'll keep blogging—at least for the next few weeks of recovery and follow-up appointments. I know I've said it before, but your support, prayers, thoughts, healing energy, laughs, cards, letters and gifts made a huge difference in our ability to get through this with a positive attitude. Thanks for being our village.