Undergoing radiation therapy means following a daily routine that includes checking in, changing into a gown, and nervously sitting among fellow patients in the waiting room, all experiencing the same treatment. The minutes pass as everyone waits for their name to be called.
The room where radiation treatment is given resembles a laboratory experiment and gives off an eerie alien abduction vibe. It's brightly illuminated, containing only an adjustable table positioned under a large, circular machine. The atmosphere is chilly and desolate. Upon entering, you're guided by two individuals clad in protective suits, masks, and gloves. They assist you in lying on the table, adjusting your body by pulling a sheet underneath to meticulously align the tattoos and machine, and guiding your arms to grasp what appear to be handlebars. Some will have a futuristic-looking mask secured, which is perfectly molded to their face, ensuring they remain still throughout the entire procedure.
Then, you're left alone in the vast emptiness as all other humans vacate the area to avoid the radiation you're receiving to combat tumors. It all feels surreal. A loud buzz sounds once the door is closed, and communication is established through a speaker if necessary. A bright red light illuminates, signaling the start of the treatment. The machine begins its operation, targeting the tumors in an effort to halt their growth and replication. The sound of a traditional pencil sharpener fills the room, first once, then two times, and finally, the apparatus shifts for two more rotations.
After the treatment is complete, you return to the dressing room and may notice a crimson hue of your skin. The potential side effects vary from skin irritation to mouth ulcers, fatigue, swelling, and more, depending on the location of the procedure on your body. It's normal to have moments where you wish for something as extraordinary as being taken by aliens to happen.
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Those who undergo radiation are tattooed and have stickers placed before starting the process. These stickers are waterproof and stick to your skin throughout the treatment period, and you must be cautious when showering or going about your daily routine. The tattoo, a tiny dot made by injecting ink into the skin with a needle, serves as a precise marker for the tumor(s). This small, intricate reminder will remain with you for the rest of your life. |