Back on deck!!!!

Hi Wendy,  Thanks for the info.  I will chase this up when I get back to Rockhampton prior to chemo treatment.  When I had radiation 4 years ago I was told by a friend to put cold packs on the area as soon as I returned home from the treatment each day.  I used to put a wet face washer in the freezer before I set off  for treatment each day.  I always came straight "Home" (in Brisbane for treatment), put the cold washer on the area then smothered myself in moistureiser (Natural Instinct - natural body lotion). (I found the Aqueous cream that was supplied - too thick.)  This worked for me.  I had no problem with my skin (only the breast and a small area in the armpit was treated).  The only thing - one brown breast and one very white one - My New Year's Eve party trick!!!!.   Bear in mind the area of radiation had seen very little sun previously in its life.  This time, radiation is from under my neck down to the breastbone, under the armpit, up over the shoulder and across my shoulder blade.  A small part of the previously treated area is getting "another hit".  My neck area and my back have had lots of sun in my past life so these are the areas that are giving me some bother this time.  I have used the same regime (at least 3 times a day with a bit of a variance of using Aloe Vera gel/Aloe Vera plant before I use the moisturiser)  I have actually found the Aqueous cream much better this time and it doesn't "curdle" as much as the other cream when it connects with the Aloe Vera.   Don't be afraid to ask for more Aqueous cream if you are being treated where it is supplied.  (they think I am eating it!!!)  I feel that I slither into my clothes and also into bed each night.  This is my last week of radiation treatment and my immune system has been greatly impaired - throat infection and diahhorea.   The trick is to lead a very basic life whilst having treatment.  I have found that any extras are just too much.  (in the first weeks you can get away with a bit)  It is really important to sleep well, eat healthily and think of yourself.  I thought that I had learnt my lesson from last time but oh no didn't quite "take it easy" all the time.  I found that I was extremely tired last time once I got home to Rockhampton so this time my husband and I are taking our time driving back by having a little holiday at Woodgate.  Hope this is helpful to you - radiation is easy so long as you take really good care of the treated area and also put yourself first.XLeonie