Mask

How do you people manage wearing the mask? I do my simulation today, and start radiation in two weeks. The thought of wearing a mask and being bolted down where I can't get out on my own terrifies me more than the cancer itself.

How did/do you all manage that?

Thanks,

Rick

1. Concentrate on how the mask is keeping the rest of your face from

being needlessly irradiated.

2. Concentrate on how it's going to work well for you. Let go of those negative thoughts and emotions, they'll cripple you.

3. Breathe deeply and try to meditate.

<>4. Take heavy recreational drugs beforehand. 

;>)

Rik 

On 12/20/2007 Kettl wrote:

1. Concentrate on how the mask is keeping the rest of your face from

being needlessly irradiated.

 

2. Concentrate on how it's going to work well for you. Let go of those negative thoughts and emotions, they'll cripple you.

 

3. Breathe deeply and try to meditate.

 

<>4. Take heavy recreational drugs beforehand. 

;>)

 

 

Rik 

<>

Thanks. I'm loading up w/ Xanax today fir the simulation.

Hi Rick:

 I finished 7 weeks of radiaiton treatments six weeks ago - I had a 10% rare cancer of the parotid gland. I "fell in love" with my mask - I felt it was symbolic of what I was going through. The bolting of my shoulders did not bother me. I was surprised the radiation only took about 10 minutes. I kept my eyes shut, I listened to the buzz of the machine and the music that the radiation staff played while I was there. You can take your own music if you like. But it goes so fast and it is painless compared I am sure to having to undergo chemotherapy..or from what I have read and heard. I even took my mask home with me and I intend to decorate it with ribbons and charms and perhaps hang it my studio/office. The worst thing for me has been the recovery, rather no recovery yet from the terrible side effects I got - dry mouth, no saliva, sore throat and a serious loss of taste. I have dropped drastic weight because I cannot taste any foods. This could take up to a year to change, if if if it changes, Meanwhile on thinking back to the radiation treatmetns those were a breeze. One day at a time..I know sounds like such a clique but it works. All the best.

Rosemary 

Thanks for the advice. I know the mask should be the least of my concerns, but I have terrible anxiety over being bolted down and locked in where I'm out of control and can't get out. If I knew I could get out in an emergency it would bother me. I'm glad you dealt with it so easily, I pray I get to that point as well.

I'm hoping that since I'm only radiating one side (Stage 1, T-1, N-0, M-0) the time in the mask will be less and the side effects less as well.

-So, the journey begins!!

God Bless.

Thanks,

R