Update of 13 February 2005

Not much new medically this week.  I had 4 more gamma and 1 more 
proton treatments, so the total is now 24, which is 60% of the way!   
All but one of the remaining 16 sessions is with protons.  

The "traditional" side effects of fatigue and pain when swallowing have 
still not materialized, for which I am grateful.  The remaining proton 
treatments may prove more challenging in this regard.   

The numbness and pain in my right thumb and forefinger continue, as 
does the unexplained weakness in my right shoulder and arm and wrist.  
I did have a good visit with a physical therapist who gave me a thorough 
evaluation.  She then consulted with my radiation oncologist and I had a 
set of Xrays taken Friday, including a pair with neck flexion and 
extension to see if bony or metallic structures are pinching the C5 
nerves, causing the weakness.  I hope to see her in PT again this week.  
Thus far she and both my surgeon and oncologist feel this is likely 
totally reversible, so steroids have not been considered (yet).
The physical therapist made several ergonomic suggestions which I 
have been trying to implement Š not clear if they help or not Š the 
last two nights I have had some trouble with pillows and sleep.  I now 
take 3x200 mg of Neurontin daily as well as an Advil at bedtime.

This has been a busy social week.  We had dinner at colleagues¹ houses 
both Sunday and Monday evenings.  Friday I had lunch with one of my 
former graduate students (Mark Worris) who is now at Lincoln labs.  
That same afternoon I arrived at RT in time for a party for the 
dedication of a portrait of one of the key "movers" in the development 
of the new MGH facility.  And, Friday through today (Sun) we had a 
visitor staying with us from Ithaca (Marie de Roos).  So, I guess I really 
DO hove lots of energy. 

I did try some knitting one day this week Š but made too many 
mistakes.  I may have to wait until I can hold my right arm up to feel 
comfortable with the needles again.