You’ve completed your treatment-planning simulation, and the countdown to the first day of radiation is on. Over the past 10 to 14 days, physicians, dosimetrists, and physicists have worked behind the scenes. They have created a personalized treatment plan that balances safety, quality, and effectiveness. Meticulous effort has gone into your plan.

You are gearing up to walk into the building for your first treatment. That first day can be overwhelming. Take a deep breath — you’ve done your research and made the choice to receive radiation therapy. When you arrive at the UF Health Proton Therapy Institute, we’ll walk you through every step of your day-by-day treatment.

Radiation Therapist Team – The Hands That Deliver Care

On day one, you’ll be greeted by a front desk assistant who will help you get settled as you wait for your first treatment. A radiation therapist will greet and lead you to the treatment or changing room.

You will likely change into a gown and then enter the gantry (treatment room). There, you will meet other radiation therapists. They will provide your care and teach you about their processes.

Together, the therapists will carefully position you on the table using the exact immobilization devices from your simulation. They’ll position the beam, take verification images and step into the control room to recheck the treatment settings. Once the team completes the safety checks, they give the treatment according to the plan from your doctor, physicist and dosimetrist.

During the course of treatment, you might hear some soft noises, and the machine might move to different positions—this is normal. The therapists will deliver each dose of radiation exactly as prescribed.

During treatment, patients will not feel or see anything. Your job is to stay relaxed and still.

After the treatment ends, your team will enter the room and help you off the treatment table. The therapists will inform you of your next treatment time.

Nurse Case Manager – The Navigational Anchor

The first day of treatment marks the beginning of a partnership that lasts throughout the entire course of care. Your nurse case manager, whom you met at your visit, will be your main contact.

They can answer questions, help manage side effects, coordinate medications and arrange referrals to other specialists. These may include physical therapy or medical oncology. Whenever anything feels “off,” your nurse is ready to listen and intervene.

A strong rapport with your nurse means you can discuss not only physical, but also emotional concerns openly. You will see your nurse and physician weekly, but they are also available if clinical needs arise.

Support Services – Your Whole-Person Community

At the UF Health Proton Therapy Institute, we believe emotional and practical assistance is integral to healing. The combined Support Services group offers a range of resources for patients, caregivers, and companions:

• On-site support groups focused on patients and caregivers
• Transportation assistance programs
• Emotional support services
• Arts-in-medicine and music therapy programs
• Educational luncheon seminars led by doctors or staff members
• Living in Jacksonville information (housing options, local attractions and community events)
• Destination lunches to connect with others in the community
• Facility tours to get a better understanding of the technology utilized
• Relaxation spaces
• And more

These activities and resources can help you feel less alone and more empowered during your treatment. If you’re uncertain where to start, ask a staff member or look for the dedicated flyers or webpages with all the details. Our team is here to help.

Child Life Specialists – Supporting Children & Their Families

Children often need specialized help during cancer care. Our child life specialists work with pediatric patients to explain treatments in age-appropriate ways. They use education, play, distraction and coping strategies to reduce anxiety and help kids through treatment.

Many of our pediatric patients meet a child life specialist during consultation or simulation. If you haven’t, you’ll likely meet one early in your treatment.

Conclusion – Your Journey, Your Celebration

We understand that the first day of radiation can feel overwhelming. Throughout your treatment, you’ll receive comprehensive, personalized support, from the hands of therapists to the guidance of nurses. This includes support ranging from research advancements to community-centered services, and from child life specialists to lifelong ambassadors.

When you finish your last treatment, we invite you to ring “Aud’s Chime” in the lobby. This moment signifies a great accomplishment and celebrates your perseverance. The gentle sounds of Aud’s Chime allow for everyone around to celebrate with you.