31 Treatments Done, 2 To Go

I pick a locker.  Usually number three.  Middle row, farthest left.

I open it.  A neatly folded gown waits for me.



I change inside the dressing room, taking everything off the top. I tie up the gown, so it can open in the front.  I grab a blanket from the warmer; they smell of warm baby formula to me.



I take my place in the radiation patient room, and wait for them to call me for a  little "R and R."  I take my blanket with me when it's time to go.

They take me in to the vault, past the heavy door.  I lay on a hard table covered with a white sheet, and they give me a cushion for under my knees and feet, and spread my blanket over me.  They tuck my feet into another warm blanket and try to get me as comfortable as possible.  I open my gown and they flatten Flopsy into position, taping her down, then taping me down to the table.

I focus on the light box above me.

I pray for blue skies ahead.