Yesterday was the radiation simulation.
I had a mask made. At the beginning the mask is bendable like a washcloth and it feels like a warm washcloth on your face. It’s like getting a facial massage. It’s nice and calming.
With the mask on I had a CT scan without contrast (thank goodness!). The mask was bolted down to the table so I couldn’t move my head.
We had to have 2 masks made. It’s not that I did anything wrong, but my doctor didn’t tell the mask-maker people that they needed a bite down block. So, they made another one. This time it had a hole so that the bite down block could stick out the hole.
The bite down block is important so that when I get radiation my gums won’t get damaged.
My doctor told me that I could draw a picture on my mask, but it had to be “Starry Night.” So I started drawing it, I just got the mountain and one of the swirls done, but it was super fun.
I got to take home the first mask and my own bite down block that I formed with my teeth. When radiation is all done, I’ll get to bring home the one that stayed there to be used each day.
It was really fun!
This is me and Mom and one of my Child Life Specialist friends. 
This is me with my laser. It helps the people position me. I am all straight! Me going into the CT machine. The is the 2nd one they made. The hole is where the bite down block was. This is the mask they keep for me to use each day. It has my name so no one else tries to use it. 
This is me coloring my mask. I had some great helpers! This is the “Starry Night” mask that we are going to use for radiation. This is the finished product for today. The next time I come here I’ll add more paint. This is me wearing my mask. It looks kinda funny.
Very cool mask!
I’m learning so much! Thank you for allowing us to go on this journey with you.
Great job, Joanna. Keep that great attitude.
love Aunt Ceil.
Wow! Your great descriptions is teaching us all so much about how doctors have learned to beat cancer: step by step. I love that you get to paint this special mask !!
Joanna I just love the fact that while you are facing these things your smile continues to shine through.
I’m learning so much from you. So glad they made you the perfect mask for you. We are cheering you on!
Again you amaze me. So cool for you to share your journey. I am certain it will help others that come after you face the uncertainties of your treatments. Love you and your family and wish for the greatest success possible with your treatments.
I’m glad you find fun in everything you do! You are one amazing kid!!💞💖
Thank you for sharing
I have learned so much from you. Love and Hugs
Aunt Pat
Joanna, you are amazing! So happy you have creative helpers that make the mask look so cool! You are brave and courageous!
🦸♀️💕🙏🦸♀️💕🙏🦸♀️💕🙏
I just love the way you find something cool about each visit, even though the situation is really stinky. You are brave & beautiful & fun and smart and amazing!
Joanna, Thanks for sharing your journey with this blog! It has been very informative…I’ve learned so much from it and all the questions/answers you discuss with your medical team. I can see you being a doctor, nurse, or Child Life Specialist when you grow up to help others going through this journey. 😄 Keep smiling, friend! Praying for you and your mom and dad.
Sounds like you had a fun time at times.
I read all your posts and pray for you. You are so strong and brave, Joanna! Much love and many hugs sent from Houston, TX.
Joanna, I can’t believe how still you had to be while they made your mask. You are so brave!!