Yesterday I had what is called a 'simulation' for my upcoming radiation. It was a pretty interesting procedure. They have you lay down on a typical CT machine (see pic below), but this time you're lying on a inflatable mold. They positioned me as straight as possible, then made me put my arms up above my head, before inflating the mold around me. This locked me into a relatively uncomfortable position. Once the mold was set they took several CT scans of me, and mapped out where all the remaining tumors are located. This took quite some time, 20-30 minutes, and all the while I'm lying in the machine in a fairly painful contorted position. Once the doctor's mapped everything out, I slid out of the machine, and the technicians proceeded to draw all over my body with sharpies, they circled spots, and wrote notes, etc. Once all the mapping was complete they busted out the tattoo pen and put a small permanent tattoo on each of the spots they are planning to radiate, 10 in all. It's not quite as elaborate as this picture, more like a freckle than anything.Today was an off day, but tomorrow I have a dry-run where they'll confirm the mold, and tattoos are all set-up correctly. Better safe than sorry when playing with x-rays. This weekend should be low key, I've got some injections scheduled, and lots of errands and things to gather up before radiation starts next Monday.
Otherwise I'm feeling pretty darn good, and trying to get rested and mentally prepared for what should be a long February. Thanks for all the supportive posts, emails and calls.
-Jeff
5 comments:
Jeff,
I read the title and I thought you actually got a real tattoo! I was excited to see if you got something irish, and since these tats look like a freckle I guess you did! Anyway i just wanted to wish you an early HAPPY BIRTHDAY! We have been getting some good snow up here in good old Michigan, we are still awaiting your arrival whenever you decide to come up! Samuel Adams (my dog for those who do not know) really wants to hang with you!
HAPPY 27th B-DAY!!!
~David
I'll bet those sharpie circles all over your body reminded you of your old sorority days, didn't they Jeff? Fat, fat, fat! I hope they didn't damage your self esteem. Some girls think your love handles are sexy. FYI, spread the word: www.boycottsamadams.org - The beer not the dog.
Hey Jeff,
It was great talking with you yesterday, and catching up a little. It sounds like you are doing great, and I definitely look forward to hanging out when you get back to Berkeley! Good luck with everything, and know that you are in my thoughts man. Let's stay in touch...
Graham
Hey Jeff,
My parents went to an RPI hockey game tonight, and they e-mailed me when they returned with an update about you. I realize we may not have ended on good terms, but it was Junior High School, so I suppose some drama was expected to happen, eh? Anyway, I wanted to write you a quick note to let you know that my thoughts and prayers are with you, and always will be. I'll be sure to check for any updates on your blog and I'll add you to our prayer list, so you'll have athletes around the world sending you their energy.
Best,
Amanda Bird
abird@usbsf.com
www.usbsf.com
Hey Jeff, it's Pam.
Your cuz.
I have been reading your "spot" for a bit now, and thought I'd step in and say hello. You know, (since I am an old fart now)- I remember holding you when you were just a chunker little red headed baby!!! We spent many years up at the lake, and I've wanted to tell you that I have ALWAYS been proud to have you as my cousin.You have always been so smart, loveable, comical, and pleasant. Your laugh is infectious!
You are in my prayers, I look up to your incredible attitude, always have.
All my love, Pam
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