As I mentioned in my previous post, the biopsy showed that I had a grade III astrocytoma so I was recommended radiotherapy followed by temozolomide. Before I started 36 doses in April 2020, I had a CT scan and had my radiotherapy mask fitted.

I was definitely getting weaker and by week three I started loosing my hair. I felt nausea in the mornings. It got better during the day but I lost a lot of weight.

Having the radiotherapy during the pandemic was a strange experience. I was taken from the house by a patient transport ambulance, asked a few questions at the hospital, had my treatment and went home. It’s already quite isolating but the situation made it worse. Normally, I would go to Maggies to talk to other patients but it was closed so unfortunately the option wasn’t there.

I often thought about how depressing the situation was. Even just having a cup of tea at the centre and chatting to others would make a lot of difference. I was lucky to have my partner who would help in difficult situations but many people don’t have that.

Next post will be about why I declined chemotherapy and dealt with the aftermaths of the treatment.