Finally I can start radiotherapy!

Hello Phil (Dellara ) 

Well that's some good news after all the issues you have had. The Radiotherapy should be a doddle, just like laying on a sunbed for a few minutes. I wish you well with it - Mount Vernon has a good reputation for Radiotherapy.

Here's a link to  a thread you may find useful:

 What you wish you had known before starting Radiotherapy? 

Any questions - just ask.

Keep us in the loop as to how it goes.

Best wishes - Brian.

Dellara said:

Wish me luck as I start the next part of the journey and all the very best to everyone going through the PC. 

Good luck with your RT. I had 20 sessions in early 2019 and am still here with annual PSA tests coming back as 0.2 so currently in remission. You will meet men in a similar situation and will quickly get into the routine of the "RT Club". Make sure you do exactly as the radiotherapy staff tell you and it will all be fine. When I was treated the regime was full bladder and no enema (you may be under a different one) and the biggest moan from the hospital staff was about patients who didn't drink the correct amount of water at the correct time and so had their treatment delayed.

Once the RT is finished you may well feel a bit in limbo as you'll miss the daily routine, but don't forget that day will be the first day of the rest of your life!

Thanks very much Brian and Seamus for your replies and Brian for the link which was very helpful and reassuring. Lots of useful info like having a milk bottle handy.  To be honest I'm more stressed about the daily bowel and bladder preparation, knowing the issues I've had in the past. I had years of very hard stools, but a concerted effort with diet and a Laxido prescription has helped an awful lot over the past few months. I have to put my trust in that. 

I'm a little unclear of what they want me to do as far as my bladder is concerned. It's seems to suggest I empty them and then drink plenty of water (a litre or so) within ten minutes. I have been supplied with a smart water bottle for the purpose. And what a nice memento! I'm sure it will become clear after the first day. 

Once again thanks so much. My stress level has been reduced a lot. Best. Phil 

Hello Phil (Dellara ) 

It's so easy  -  after a couple of days you will be a pro.(once you've found a parking space!).

I had to self enema but as I live a mile from the hospital I was told to do it at home and come in once the old bowel had cleared out - not an issue. They do ask every day to describe your stools and provided you don't eat and drink anything that's going to give you wind you will be fine.

As for the bladder I was at The Christie in Oldham and we were empty bowel - empty bladder so before each fraction the staff uttered those magic words "have you been?". 95% of other hospitals want a certain amount in your bladder so you will have to check with your team how much water you need to drink.

Any issues speak to the Radiology staff - they have seen and heard everything and will be able to sort out any problems.

You will be fine.

Best wishes - Brian.

Hi Dellara and welcome to the club..

Just picking up on your point about getting to 'full' (but not too full!) bladder. You may want to look at my profile at 10th Feb Radiotherapy entry. Just my personal experience with balancing the right amount of 'fullness' but may be of some use to you.

4 months on, my waterworks are much recovered, just 0-1 times per night now (with help from tamsulosin)and practicing 'bladder training' to reduce daytime visits. Still carry a milk bottle in the car to save stops on long journeys ;-)

All The Best

David