1. < Thyroid Cancer

How do I go through 6 weeks radiation and chemotherapy, alone?

Posted by kmlnj @kmlnj, Nov 5 9:26am

I am a 72 year old widow in good health. I had a complete thyroidectomy. There is some inoperable cancer left on my trachea and tiny bit on neck lymph nodes.

I am trying to understand the "how to" of 6 weeks radiation.
Can I live alone?
Will I get so tired that I can't care for myself?
Will I get so tired I can't take the train to my treatment?
I don't know what to expect.
Thanks
Kathleen

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kmlnj | @kmlnj | Nov 5 4:57pm
In reply to @hrhwilliam "Kathleen, You have some valid concerns. Perhaps you could run these past your oncologist and/or GP..." + (show)
@hrhwilliam

Kathleen,
You have some valid concerns. Perhaps you could run these past your oncologist and/or GP or the hospital patient services to see what is offered. Spending the last one or two weeks of treatment at or nearby might be a better option if that is available. Without that, you might only make it to the five week mark on your own. The last two weeks and then the two weeks after treatment is done is likely the most difficult.
The ability to eat or take nourishment should also be considered. That might be an issue after week four as well and should be addressed before it needs to be addressed. Many of us have opted for a feeding tube so we can feast on a bag lunch three times a day.
For now, ask the care team to see what is available. We are here for you when and if you need to be pulled down from the wall you may be climbing as time goes on. Courage.

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Thank you. I will continue to talk to the team as January draws closer.
I am familiar with feeding tube. My husband had ALS and I was his primary
care giver. I kept the stoma clean and managed his feedings.
But, it's not something the team has mentioned.
I also have an appointment in early January with a therapist at MSK to
discuss issues and self care.

REPLY
Mentor
William Olsen, Volunteer Mentor | @hrhwilliam | Nov 5 3:53pm

Kathleen,
You have some valid concerns. Perhaps you could run these past your oncologist and/or GP or the hospital patient services to see what is offered. Spending the last one or two weeks of treatment at or nearby might be a better option if that is available. Without that, you might only make it to the five week mark on your own. The last two weeks and then the two weeks after treatment is done is likely the most difficult.
The ability to eat or take nourishment should also be considered. That might be an issue after week four as well and should be addressed before it needs to be addressed. Many of us have opted for a feeding tube so we can feast on a bag lunch three times a day.
For now, ask the care team to see what is available. We are here for you when and if you need to be pulled down from the wall you may be climbing as time goes on. Courage.

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