Colin had an appt with the Consultant Oncologist at Cheltenham General last Thursday (11th) for what turned out to be a fairly routine check up. Nothing was examined (well has anyone managed to examine what's in Colin's head without the help of MRIs?), it was merely to assess how he was feeling following the end of the radiotherapy treatment. There has been and still is a fair amount of fatigue, general muddle-ness, and inconsistent memory loss but nothing to warrant the Consultant to admit Colin as an in-patient (which apparently is something that would have been considered). So the next appt has been arranged for 5th Sept and before that an MRI scan will take place. That scan will enlighten everyone on how well or otherwise the radiotherapy has worked. The reason for, what seems to be, the long wait for that scan is simply time to allow the radiotherapy to take effect since it continues well after the actual irradiation completes. The other reason is that radiotherapy to the brain causes inflammation and of course this would 'cloud' the issue on any scan.
Since the beginning of this week, Colin had a useful appt with the Neuro-psychologist at Worcester hospital and a most useful session with the Senior Physio at Malvern Hospital yesterday - some sensible approaches and practical help at last!
Other than all that, we're trying to keep cool (like most of you we expect!!) and wish the house had air-con!
Colin & Jane.