Radiation Consultation

Radiation Consultation -  April 28

Andy and my mom came with me to my radiation consultation. When Dr. Weyers walked into the room, she had tears in her eyes and gave me a huge hug. She said, “You should not be here,” and I couldn’t have agreed more. From the very beginning, she was incredibly thorough, compassionate, and patient as she answered all of our questions.

Initially, her nurse explained that it could take almost two weeks to get in for the planning session, followed by another week or two for all of the calculations and treatment planning to be completed and reviewed. But after Dr. Weyers completed her initial examination, she said, “Let me see if we can get you started as soon as possible.”

By the end of the consultation, everything had changed. She scheduled me to begin the simulation planning session on Friday, May 1, with hopes of starting radiation treatment the following Wednesday.

Dr. Weyers recommended palliative radiation directed at my left hip and lumbar spine to help with pain control. We discussed the treatment planning and delivery process for external beam radiation, along with possible side effects including skin irritation, fatigue, nausea, and bladder or bowel irritation.

On Thursday, my daughter Clara and a group of girls from her Jam Choir stopped and sang a few songs for me. It was such a nice surprise and they did such beautiful job. 

• Seek Ye First
• By His Wounds we are Healed
• 10,000 Reasons (Blessed the Lord)

On Friday, May 1, my parents took me in for the simulation — the planning session for radiation treatment. During the appointment, I laid on the treatment table in the exact position that would be used during treatment. Immobilization devices, including molds for my legs, were created to help keep me perfectly still during each session.

They then performed specialized imaging scans to map the precise location of the tumors. Afterward, the team placed four small markings on my skin to ensure the radiation would be aimed at the exact same area every time.

Using all of the simulation data, Dr. Weyers designed a customized treatment plan. The team carefully calculated the exact radiation dose and beam angles to target the cancer cells while protecting as much healthy tissue as possible. Normally, this planning process can take one to two weeks, but Dr. Weyers worked quickly to have everything ready for me in just three days.

After the planning session, Dr. Weyers met with us again and answered a few more questions. 

I continue to be so thankful for my team of doctors and for the genuine care they show for my health and well-being.

As we move into the weekend, I’m reminded once again about the balance of letting go while still holding onto hope.

One of my favorite lyrics right now is from “Worship Through It” by Tasha Layton featuring Chris Brown:

“This looks impossible
But You’re the God of impossible
And I’ve seen Your faithfulness all over my life
I need a miracle
And You’re the God of miracles
Somehow, some way, You come through every time.”