Hi all. I just finished 4 weeks of radiation. It wasn’t too bad for the first 3 weeks - “all” I had was an itchy, slightly painful rash. Then in the 4th week it was like they turned up the heat! My chest is now really burned especially around my left breast. I asked for help from my radiation oncologist and was sent an antibiotic cream. I don’t have an infection (knock on wood) I have pain. I put the antibiotic cream aside and after gently washing I slathered on an inexpensive “healing ointment” for cracked, dry skin (kind of like Vaseline - just smells better) and I’m much more comfortable now.

Next week I’m supposed to start Anastrozole (generic for Arimidex) - an aromatase inhibitor. I’m afraid of the side effects, especially pain. I was brutalized for decades and being in pain now triggers horrible memories and feelings. I guess I will try it but it will take a miracle to be able to stay on it.

With all the billions in profit every quarter, you’d think some company would come up with a cure. But I guess with all the money they’re making from cancer treatments, why would they? It’s so frustrating especially since there’s no cancer in my family. I found out I probably got it from the antidepressants I took years ago (SSRIs for 20 years). Makes me feel like a victim all over again.