My Experience with Radiation

By Sally Pletzer

1 min read

Following a mastectomy due to Invasive Ductal CA that was found in my Lymph nodes -- I had 30 radiation treatments. I used Aphopor ointment the whole time, by the way. But I ended up with red skin that turned black. It peeled off, leaving areas of uneven tan areas. But I survived and I would do it again.

This is my story.

Help others feel a little less alone.

Share Your Story Today

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The AdvancedBreastCancer.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

Join the conversation

Please read our rules before commenting.

Mallory Royal Moderator & Contributor
Hi <inline-mention username="Sally Pletzer" user-id="4582747"/>, Thank you for sharing your story with us. I can relate to your story and have experience with the same cream with radiation and surgeries. I think lots of places suggest using it, I can't say I loved it or hated it. Just tried to get through it right? I would do it again, and not look back. Glad we are still here! Have a lovely weekend, please let us know how you are doing! Best, Mallory (Team Member)
Sally Pletzer Member
I am doing well- hate getting dressed sometimes tho. Don’t like wearing a bra anymore, so I am layering clothes to camouflage that I’m missing a breast. Still, have some pain in the area off and on-- Is this normal? Hoping that the CA doesn't show up elsewhere. Just lost a friend who found CA in her spine/abdomen-- not breast-related-- but she showed me compassion during my treatments. May God be with us all.
1. Patty Day Community Admin
 Hi <inline-mention username="Sally Pletzer" user-id="4582747"/>. It must be difficult and frustrating to deal with the pain from the radiation treatment, on top of everything else. I hope other community members will chime in to share whether they've experienced the same on and off pain in the area. Is this something that you've spoken with your doctor about? I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your friend - losing someone who gives us strength and shows compassion never gets easy. I really believe that when someone touches us like that, we will continue to carry their presence, and that presence will be with us when we need it most. We're so grateful for you and are here to support you however we can. Sending you strength 💙 Warmly, Patty (Team Member)
2. Steph Millett Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Sally Pletzer" user-id="4582747"/> hi there Sally! First and foremost, thank you for sharing with us, and also keeping us in the loop on how you’re doing. I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your friend ❤️ It’s nice to have fond memories to look back on! I am a few years out from radiation, and experience some pain the area still. Bras can be so uncomfortable sometimes- I opt for bralettes with my half flat chest, and I find that it gives me a little support and camouflage at the same time. Thank you for being here! Sending you love, Stephanie (team member)

Community Poll

Have you taken our In America survey yet?