Radiation Reflection, Weekend 3, Friday

On the couch by 6 p.m.,
My lap covered with
a plate of Chinese takeout and
a fuzzy blanket, soft as my dogs.
I’m scrolling my phone,
scrolling through Prime,
eyelids heavy
before sundown.

Beneath my button-down shirt,
the left side of my chest
wears a pink breast plate.
I hope this radiation burn
is protection from cancer
the way a metal breastplate
is protection from swords.

I hope fatigue is a reminder
of what to value -
My loved ones, my pets,
food,
warmth,
sleep.

Heart shape in my backyard. Radiation didn’t take place this day because the machine was down, meaning my weekend started early and radiation will end a day later on April 14.