Shannen Doherty Shows What Day 1 of Radiation Treatment Really Looks Like in Stunning Photo
First day of radiation treatment. I look like I’m about to make a run for it which is accurate. Radiation is frightening to me. Something about not being able to see the laser, see the treatment and having this machine moving around you just scares me. I’m sure I’ll get used to it but right now…. I hate it. #radiation #radiationmondaysucks #stillfightinglikeagirl
A photo posted by ShannenDoherty (@theshando) on Nov 28, 2016 at 12:32pm PST
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The 45-year-old actress revealed in August 2015 that she has invasive breast cancer metastatic to at least one lymph node (meaning it’s spread to one of her lymph nodes thus far) “I am continuing to eat right, exercise, and stay very positive about my life,” she told PEOPLE at the time. “I am thankful to my family, friends, and doctors for their support and, of course, my fans who have stood by me.”
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Since then, Shannen has been open about her cancer journey, sharing photos of shaving her head, and various pictures from her treatments, including brutally honest Instagram posts about how difficult chemo days can be.
#fbf to a very short bit ago. Day after #chemoday isn’t always so great. Sometimes one isn’t able to dance, or eat or even to think about the next day. Sometimes it just feels like you aren’t going to make it. That passes. Sometimes the next day or 2 days later or 6 but it passes and movement is possible. Hope is possible. Possibility is possible. To my cancer family and everyone suffering…. stay courageous. Stay strong. Stay positive. #wegotthis. #fightlikeagirl
A photo posted by ShannenDoherty (@theshando) on Oct 21, 2016 at 3:10pm PDT
Last week, Shannen revealed in another Instagram post that she’s wary of undergoing radiation, and it’s that honesty about her emotions that so many appreciate, serving as a reminder that you don’t have to be the picture of strength all the time, especially if that’s not how you feel. (Heal your whole body with Rodale’s 12-day power plan for better health.)
Ct scan to do mapping for radiation plan. This scared me so much. Not sure why. Was supposed to get it with contrast but the minute they started looking at which vein to use I started crying. Full panic attack. Sometimes, you just get sick of being poked. And that’s ok. I cried. I felt sorry for myself for a minute. Then stopped and reminded myself of how lucky I am. Thank God my new radiation oncologist decided to try without contrast so I would calm down. So…. one panic attack down and mapping done!! Now to actually start radiation… #cancerslayer #warrior #fightlikeagirl #blessed
A photo posted by ShannenDoherty (@theshando) on Nov 18, 2016 at 12:57pm PST
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Despite the difficulties, though, Shannen says she’s not ready to give up hope. Here’s hoping she continues to get the strength and help she needs as she inspires women around the world.