The "Varian Clinac Series 21 EX Linac", aka: The Green Monster

 All is still well after radiation days 11, 12, and 13.  Chris is doing great, and her energy level is high.  Today Chris had her weekly radiation oncology checkup, and things are progressing as expected, so no news on the medical front.  The only news we have is that Chris' mom arrived from Florida yesterday to help around the house, and make sure Chris is doing OK.  She is with Chris in the pic at Duke below:

With no news, some useless information:

There are several radiation rooms at the radiation oncology facility, all color-coded.  Chris' machine is in the Green room, and only the patient and Duke staff are allowed in. 

Chris took this rare photo of The Green Monster

Whomever goes to Duke with Chis is left in the waiting area for about 20 minutes while the treatment is performed.  That duty is not too harsh.  The waiting area has an open bar (a snackbar...), with coffee, juice, and light snacks.  There are also internet workstations, a pianist on a grand piano, TVs, books, WiFi, and the latest People magazines.  Upstairs, in the basement, there is a quiet room, where the partaker can sit in a lounge chair and select from a number of music and lighting moods to experience.  There is also complimentary valet parking.

Some random facts we have learned about radiation:

• Radiation works through oxidation.  Therefore, taking anti-oxidant vitamins is prohibited because it would counteract the oxidation process.
• The radiation oncologist told Chris not to use the "bun warmer" in her car seat on the high setting until the treatment ends.  The low setting is still OK.
• The radiation facility is housed in the sub-basement of the clinic to prevent radiation from leaking out of the facility.  The walls surrounding the rooms are 4 feet thick, solid concrete, and lined with lead.
• Adequate hydration is required and monitored.  Coffee does not count as part of the fluid intake.  Decaf counts 50%.  Diet Coke counts 25%.
• The radiation machine model is a "Varian Clinac Series 21 EX Linac". Chris actually asked for the make and model during her consultation, and the oncologist called the radiation room while we waited for the information.  The radonc tech originally told the oncologist the wrong model, and the oncologist called Chris at home later in the day to correct the information.  I wish I knew what he thinks we are doing with that tidbit of information.