Radhiya Preston

After Radhiya Preston was diagnosed with Stage 2B breast cancer in November 2020 and underwent a mastectomy, the next phase in her treatment plan called for radiation treatment. Her medical oncologist referred her to the Capital Hospital for their treatment expertise, and she was under the care of radiation oncologist, Dr. Tim Bolek.

When Preston started treatment in spring 2021, she was welcomed to the Cancer Center by fellow survivors who are on staff.

“It gives them a relatable passion for the treatment, and they gave me an extra shoulder to lean on as I went through radiation,” she said. “While I was still coming in for treatment for cancer, I enjoyed coming in to see the staff. They were enjoyable people to come in and get the treatment done with.”

She also said the staff was very accommodating and could always fit her in when her personal schedule became hectic and that they were very systematic and professional with their treatments.

While receiving treatment, Preston said she didn’t experience most of the common radiation side effects, only feeling fatigued.

“I didn’t have any cracking or burning, which I was very thankful for,” she said. “The hardest part was the discipline and dedication of going in every today, which does get tedious. Otherwise, it was pretty simple. It wasn’t what I thought it would be like. I was prepared for the worst, but I had a better experience than I expected. It was a very comfortable and easy treatment for me.”

Radhiya is also under the care of our physical therapist, Danielle Kirkland. Danielle specializes in the management of lymphedema – lymphedema is the build-up of fluid in soft body tissues when the lymph system is damaged or blocked. Preston says, “Danielle is extremely thorough and I have had a faster recovery due to her meticulous care.”

Radhiya has finished treatment and reports her recovery has gone smoothly.