Having had my biopsy result confirmed it was time to undertake a round of scans to see the extent of the problem.
I'm blogging my experience of the scans for anyone who is about to jump on the roller-coaster ride that is cancer treatment and who may wonder what lies ahead. Unlike the others, this blog is more factual than a reflection of my emotions.
Round one was a MRI scan.
The machine was a long, thin cylinder that I laid inside. The table was raised so that my nose was close to the top of the cylinder and I was unable to see out. The scan took about 30mins.
I have never been claustrophobic but I certainly needed to calm myself down from feelings of being trapped inside.
Breathe, relax...
Round two was a CT scan.
This involved lying on a machine whilst an archway moved over me, the innards of which were spinning with some fury. At the same time 'contrast' was injected into my body via a cannula that had been put into my arm.
The contrast wasn't particularly pleasant, making me feel really hot, but the sensation only lasted for a few seconds.
Phew! Glad that's over.
Round three was a PET/CT scan.
This scan was far more interesting! When I arrived at the hospital I was taken to a small room where a geiger counter was gently clicking in the background.
I was then given an injection of radioactive material following which the staff stayed well away from me! Always at a good arms length I was led to the scanner over an hour later where the quick and painless scan took place.
I was then presented with a card that explained to airport staff why I may have just set off their bomb scanners.
I had to stay away from my young children for the night but disappointingly found that I was unable to glow in the dark.
Round four was another CT scan after my mask had been fitted. I will describe this in my next blog.
So, during this time how was I feeling? Well, I felt comforted by the amount of activity that was going on. The medical staff had been simply amazing, giving me an overwhelming feeling of support. I am sure that I will never be able to thank them enough.
