As you may remember, Brady’s tumour was tested upon removal, and was deemed as cancerous. It has actually been a bit of a mess as different doctors in different cities believe it to be different stages of severity. For the time being, Brady has been diagnosed with stage four cancer. We have agreed to a five week radiation plan, where he will receive twenty-five “fractions” (doses) of the treatment. Twenty five appointments. Every weekday for five weeks.
And that began today.
I was able to drive him myself, so we went together. He checked in and they gave him his schedule for the week. He immediately put it into the calendar on his phone, though we’ve been warned it can change from day to day to day.
As it was Brady’s first treatment, they permitted me to join in the tour and explanations. We were led to the “Atlantis location” where we met a handful of staff members who will be our constants through the next five weeks. They were SO friendly and reassuring, taking us behind the desk to show us that there are camera in the treatment rooms if Brady needs any kind of help or has an emergency. They also showed us the scan of the spot on his spine that they’re treating, and explained that they’ll take a picture every time, and why. We were told that, once a week, Brady would have a check-up with his radiation oncologist, and I am very welcome to attend.
I was offered a seat, and Brady was wheeled back to his first treatment. The machine glitched, so some tech guys came and overrode something. Right away, the staff started to reassure me and explained exactly what was happening so I wouldn’t have to feel uneasy. We cracked a couple of jokes and everything moved forward again. I sat and waited quietly. Its hard not to worry.
But what good does worry do?
Brady was under the laser for all of three minutes. He sounded so happy and relaxed when they went in and announced to him “Thats it, thats all!” I mentioned to the staff how much I desire this all to be quick and painless, and they agreed that they hoped for smooth sailing for us. This method of radiation tends to be very well tolerated, with less risk of further damage, as this oncologist does shorter fractions of treatment for a longer span of time.
It had been a smooth first treatment, and we are so grateful for that. As time progresses, things could change and he could find himself uncomfortable or in pain. We pray deeply against those side effects, and that God would fill Brady’s body.
He can, and He will. We pray with expectation. Do Your will, Lord. We’re here for it.