This week, I began a new chapter in my breast cancer journey: breast cancer radiation treatment. After months of chemotherapy, surgery, and recovery, I finally reached the next step. Radiation may be the next challenge, but I’m ready for it.
But first, let’s talk about the week before the zap.
A Good Week at Work (Finally!)
For the first time in a while, I had a truly productive workweek. Yes, I’ve been physically present in the office for a few weeks, but this week felt different. My energy was up; mind was clearer; stomach issues, which usually cloud my focus, gave me a bit of a break. That space allowed me to feel more like me—engaged, present, and connected to my team.
That said, I’m still dealing with neuropathy after chemotherapy. Some days it’s mild. Other days, I feel like I’m walking on pins or rubbing my hands on sandpaper. I’ve been trying to track whether certain foods might be triggering the symptoms, but I haven’t cracked that mystery yet. I’m hopeful this will improve with time.
And speaking of time—if it took five months of chemotherapy to knock everything out of my system (good and bad), I’m giving my body at least 10 to 12 months to recover and rebuild. Full health, I’m coming for you!
Genetic Testing Before the Chemo Pill
Earlier in the week, I returned to campus for bloodwork to check how the DPYD gene might interact with the chemo pill I’ll be taking later. I’m not a geneticist, and honestly, I only understand about five cents’ worth of what it all means. But I do know my medical team is being thorough, and for that I’m grateful.
There was a little hiccup when the nurse thought she may have missed labeling my blood vial. She realized everything was handled correctly after she asked me to come back upstairs. We laughed it off—it was just one of those moments that reminds you how human we all are.
Let the Radiation Begin
The real spotlight of the week was my first breast cancer radiation treatment. When I walked into the radiation room, it felt like a sci-fi movie set. The machine was massive, and the table I lay on was definitely not built for comfort. Foam-covered, yes. Friendly? Not so much.
The tech team worked to get me in the perfect position. Let’s just say I was doing a little cha-cha slide on my stomach trying to line everything up. Once we were set, the machine began. I didn’t feel a thing—except some pressure on my ribcage from how I was positioned. They told me this would be the longest session of the series, and they were right.
Day two? Much shorter and smoother. This time, I even got a text message asking me to change into my gown before they came to get me. That was a first—and I couldn’t help but chuckle.
I asked the techs to explain what the machine was doing. Turns out, the three large cameras do an overlay over the sticker markers they placed on my body. Once everything lines up perfectly, the treatment arm rotates around me and delivers targeted radiation to the correct area.
It’s incredible how precise this technology is—and even more incredible that I get to benefit from it.
Side Effects? None Yet—but I’m Staying Ready
So far, I haven’t experienced any noticeable side effects of radiation therapy, but I’m following doctor’s orders and moisturizing religiously after each session. I know skin irritation may be on the horizon, so I’m staying ahead of it the best I can.
Final Thoughts: Hope in Progress
This journey hasn’t been easy. Even saying “breast cancer” still sends a wave of heat through me. It’s been 8 months since I was diagnosed, and it still doesn’t feel real sometimes.
For 14 years, I focused on staying healthy to avoid diabetes, which runs in my family. I never imagined cancer would be the thing to challenge me most. But instead of asking “Why me?” I’m asking, “What now?”
The answer? Keep going. One day at a time. One step at a time.
Whether it’s radiation therapy, navigating neuropathy, or showing up for work with a smile—I’m determined to become better than I was before. Stronger. Healthier. Wiser. More grateful.
I don’t know how long it will take, but I will get there.
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