#breast cancer radiation therapy

[risenwraith]

#203 Weirdest best feeling.

Ever had sun-burn and pokked at a bit of lantern thin skin that just pulled away in swathes like moth-thin vellum?

Probably anyone who went on holiday and sat on a beach too long had that once or twice. That's just bad sunburn. Radiation burn is very similar - until the end. Then it's more like someone smacked you with a burning skillet and cauterized your non-existent traitor tit with a red hot poker.

Took off the silver patch today: all blah discoloured skin is dead/dry and ready to come off leaving pink, tender but healed new skin underneath. Nothing is soggy or ick, all burns are healed over. I know you're not meant to fuck with wounds, but carefully peeling away what looks like hardened snot off your chest to reveal perfectly healthy skin beneath is like a zombie apocolypse in reverse. Fucking magic. Thank you silver patches!

[jozistyle]

Cancer: A Reminder to be Vigilant

I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who reached out with messages of support after my cancer diagnosis. Your kindness and generosity have been truly overwhelming. During this challenging time, I’ve been reminded of the incredible power of human connection. The messages I’ve received from strangers have been a source of comfort and inspiration. It’s heartwarming to know that so…

[mohitkumar123]

Get Advanced Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer

Our highly qualified and dedicated oncologists easily perform radiation therapy for breast cancer and will guide you through every step.

[drpriya]

Dealing with physical changes caused by cancer can be challenging, but there are several strategies and resources that can help manage these changes effectively:

1. Medical Support

Consult Oncologists and Specialists: Regular check-ups and consultations with your medical team can help address and manage symptoms and side effects.

Pain Management: Work with your healthcare provider to find effective pain relief methods, which may include medications, physical therapy, or alternative therapies.

2. Physical Activity

Exercise: Engage in appropriate physical activity to maintain strength and energy levels. Programs like gentle yoga, walking, or swimming can be beneficial.

Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design an exercise program tailored to your needs and limitations.

3. Nutrition

Balanced Diet: Focus on a nutrient-rich diet to support your body's needs. Consult a dietitian who specializes in oncology for personalized advice.

Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is crucial for overall health and can help manage some side effects like dry skin and constipation.

4. Emotional and Psychological Support

Counseling: Therapy or counseling can help you process emotions and develop coping strategies.

Support Groups: Joining support groups for cancer patients can provide a sense of community and shared experience.

5. Coping with Body Image Changes

Professional Guidance: Seek advice from specialists like dermatologists, hair specialists, or reconstructive surgeons to manage visible changes.

Adaptive Aids: Consider wigs, scarves, and prosthetics to help with hair loss or other physical changes.

6. Managing Fatigue

Rest: Ensure adequate rest and take naps if necessary.

Energy Conservation: Prioritize activities and pace yourself to conserve energy for essential tasks.

7. Practical Adjustments

Assistive Devices: Use tools and devices that can help with daily tasks, such as grab bars, shower chairs, or mobility aids.

Home Modifications: Make necessary adjustments at home to ensure a safe and comfortable environment.

8. Skin Care

Gentle Products: Use mild, fragrance-free soaps and lotions to care for sensitive skin.

Sun Protection: Protect your skin from the sun with appropriate clothing and sunscreen.

9. Financial and Legal Assistance

Financial Planning: Seek advice on managing medical expenses and explore resources for financial support.

Legal Advice: Look into legal resources to help with issues related to employment, insurance, and disability rights.

10. Complementary Therapies

Mind-Body Practices: Techniques like meditation, acupuncture, and massage therapy can help alleviate stress and improve well-being.

Creative Outlets: Engage in activities like art, music, or writing as a form of expression and stress relief.

11. Education and Advocacy

Stay Informed: Educate yourself about your specific type of cancer and treatment options.

Advocate for Yourself: Communicate openly with your healthcare team and advocate for your needs and preferences.

Each person's experience with cancer is unique, so it’s important to find what works best for you and to seek support from healthcare professionals, loved ones, and community resources. Get best treatments for cancer at best hospitals like H N Reliance Hospital Mumbai.

[adityamantri]

Clinical Trials In Aurangabad: Exploring Options For Advanced Cancer Care

Introduction:

When dealing with cancer, finding effective treatments is vital. Clinical trials offer desire for sufferers looking for advanced care alternatives. In Aurangabad, these trials pave the way for modern treatments, imparting new avenues for preventing cancer. Let’s delve into what medical trials entail and how they are able to benefit sufferers in their adventure closer to restoration.

Understanding Clinical Trials:

Clinical trials are research studies that take a look at new treatments or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. These trials follow strict suggestions and contain volunteers who agree to participate. They play a critical function in advancing scientific understanding and improving patient outcomes by way of evaluating novel treatment plans and interventions.

Benefits of Participating:

Participating in a medical trial can provide numerous blessings to patients. They may additionally gain get admission to modern treatments not yet to be had to the general public, receive near tracking from clinical specialists, and make contributions to the development of cancer care. Additionally, some trials cowl the charges of experimental treatments, easing the economic burden on patients and their households.

Opportunities in Aurangabad:

In Aurangabad, clinical trials offer desire for individuals looking for modern most cancers remedies. These trials encompass various cancer sorts and remedy modalities, catering to numerous affected person wishes. By partnering with official healthcare institutions and studies centers, Aurangabad gives sufferers get right of entry to to a wide array of clinical trial options, expanding their treatment opportunities.

OncoRelief Cancer Clinic: A Hub for Clinical Trials:-

OncoRelief Cancer Clinic, led with the aid of Dr. Aditya Mantari, stands as a leading institution in Aurangabad, presenting access to modern-day scientific trials. With Dr. Mantari’s understanding in surgical oncology and commitment to patient-centered care, OncoRelief provides a supportive surroundings for individuals thinking about participation in medical research. Through collaborative efforts with renowned research organizations, OncoRelief Cancer Clinic allows opportunities for patients to discover modern treatments and make a contribution to the advancement of most cancers care.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, clinical trials in Aurangabad constitute a beacon of desire for individuals in search of advanced most cancers care. By collaborating in those trials, sufferers now not simplest gain get entry to to novel remedies but additionally contribute to the collective effort to combat most cancers. With institutions like OncoRelief Cancer Clinic and specialists like Dr. Aditya Mantari leading the way, Aurangabad remains at the forefront of clinical studies, providing sufferers opportunities for recovery and development. If you or a loved one are going through cancer, take into account exploring the possibilities provided by way of scientific trials — it can be a transformative step on your journey toward healing.

For More Info Visit Our Site:- oncorelief.in

[actino-man]

Times Of India on World Cancer Day 4th February

[desunhospital1]

Role Of Radiation Oncology In Cancer Management

Desun Hospital emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary team, including radiation oncologists, medical physicists, technologists, and nurses, ensuring comprehensive and effective cancer care. For more information on the Role of Radiation Oncology in Cancer Management, read our comprehensive blog at: https://www.desunhospital.com/role-of-radiation-oncology-in-cancer-management/

[harmeet-saggi]

Breast Cancer Prevention, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Breast cancer is the most common disease found in women, and it strikes about 1 woman in 8.

Breast cancer generally doesn't show any symptoms and requires regular screenings to be caught at an early stage. There are four stages of breast cancer: Stage 1: Exam with no lumps but suspicious irregular cells growth; Stage 2: Single lump or growth; Stage 3: Multiple lumps or growths; Stage 4: Lymph node involvement.

[risenwraith]

#186 Eww: medical ick.

Was uncertain why the doctor had perscribed me actual antibiotics as well as antibiotic burn cream. Did some poking about on the net and found a fascinating article about ARD - Acute Radiation Dermatitis.

With ARD the burn can becomes infected and develope 'moist desquamation' (what a phrase) because the skin has been too damaged by the radiation to protect itself properly. This can easily lead to severe ulcers.

Turns out, the most common cause of irradiated skin becoming wet and ulcerous (not a phrase I thought I'd ever have to type) is a simple staph infection. Therefore, antibacterial soap and cream etc are the best way to prevent and cure it. (The doctor's comment about the burn becoming 'wet' makes even more sense now.)

Right, well, I'm not a Deep One, so I have no intention of becoming soggy or squamous thank you very much. Since I have to wait for a cheque to clear before I can get my perscriptions, I've been putting normal antiseptic cream on the worst of my burns instead of the fancy radiation cream as I figure that should do more to guard against infection in the mean time.

Article I read is here for the curious.

[drkartick]

Dr. Kartick Rastogi: Radiation Oncologist | Oncologist | Chemotherapy | Cancer Doctor| Mahesh Nagar | Jaipur

Dr. Kartick Rastogi(ONCOLOGIST) Radiation Oncologist and Cancer Specialist in Mahesh Nagar, Gopalpura Jaipur. He is a top leading Radiation Oncologist and cancer specialist with vast experience in this field. He always used Health-care Policy and protocols of Cancer Screening & Diagnosis, and Holistic Cancer Management for Surgery. If you are looking for the best cancer treatment and Radiation oncologist in Mahesh Nagar, Gopalpura Jaipur. Connect with The best Cancer Surgeon in Jaipur for cancer treatment. For more information click here - https://goo.gl/maps/3VwaiSJzbmK8JG7h6

[ganitsoni]

Top 10 Oncologists in Hyderabad

If you're looking for the top 10 oncologist in Hyderabad, Dr. Chinnababu is a leading Robotic Surgical Oncologist (Cancer Surgeon) with high experience and individual concern for each patient. If you need one of the best oncologists in Hyderabad, Dr. Chinnababu is the one to go to. You can book an appointment with him to get treatment designed just for you.

[drvineetagoeloncologist]

Dr. Vineeta Goel is best known for advanced radiation therapy in delhi to give complete treatment to cancer patients; visit heart sparing radiation therapy in east delhi, breast cancer radiation therapy in east delhi for better treatment.

[drpriya]

The development of a breast cancer vaccine has been an ongoing area of research with promising advancements.

Here are some key points regarding advancements and future prospects:

Advancements:

Researchers have been exploring various approaches to develop a breast cancer vaccine, including targeting specific proteins expressed by breast cancer cells.

Some experimental vaccines have shown promising results in preclinical studies and early-phase clinical trials. These vaccines aim to stimulate the body's immune system to recognize and attack breast cancer cells.

One approach involves using peptides derived from breast cancer-specific proteins to trigger an immune response against cancer cells.

Challenges:

Breast cancer is a complex disease with different subtypes, and developing a vaccine that effectively targets all types of breast cancer remains a significant challenge.

Safety and efficacy are critical considerations in vaccine development. Ensuring that a vaccine effectively targets cancer cells without causing harmful side effects is a priority.

Clinical trials are necessary to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of breast cancer vaccines in larger populations over an extended period.

Future Prospects:

Continued research and advancements in immunotherapy, which harnesses the body's immune system to fight cancer, hold promise for the development of breast cancer vaccines.

Personalized medicine approaches, such as identifying specific genetic mutations or biomarkers associated with an individual's breast cancer, could help tailor vaccine therapies to patients' specific needs.

Combination therapies, where vaccines are used in conjunction with other treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy, may enhance treatment outcomes and improve patient survival rates.

With ongoing advancements in cancer genomics, bioinformatics, and immunology, researchers are gaining a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying breast cancer. This knowledge could inform the development of more targeted and effective vaccines in the future.

While the development of a breast cancer vaccine remains a complex and evolving field, continued research efforts hold promise for the future of breast cancer treatment and prevention.

There is no commercially available vaccine specifically designed to prevent breast cancer. While research into breast cancer vaccines has shown promising results in preclinical studies and early-phase clinical trials, no vaccine has been approved for widespread use in preventing breast cancer.

Breast cancer encompasses various subtypes, each with its own unique characteristics and underlying molecular mechanisms. The immune system's response to cancer cells is intricate and multifaceted, requiring thorough understanding and precise targeting for effective vaccine development.

Researchers continue to explore different vaccine formulations, immunotherapy approaches, and combination therapies to improve outcomes for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with breast cancer.

The "best" treatment approach is highly individualized and may involve a combination of the above therapies. Factors such as the stage and characteristics of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and personal preferences all play a role in determining the most appropriate treatment plan.

Get the best treatment for cancer, cancer vaccines done and full body health checkup at the best hospitals in India.

[xoxotria]

grief | c.sc

pairing: choi seungcheol x fem!reader

tw: mentions of death, depression and cancer

themes: angst, fluff

note: this one really hits close to home as i wrote it knowing the pain it feels to lose a loved one to breast cancer. remember that it’s okay to grieve longer than others. we all heal at our own pace but don’t be afraid to let yourself be comforted by the people around you.

—cheol knew that you were still grieving the loss of your mother. it had been a couple of months since she had passed and slowly the light that used to shine in your eyes had dulled down. he knew you was hurting and it hurt him to see you hurt..

losing someone was never easy, he knew that but it pained him to see you that way. you and your mother had been very close. you lived a four hour drive away from your mother in which made their time together even more precious as you were always a momma’s girl growing up.

her mother’s diagnosis had shaken their family as her mother was always known to be healthy and someone who took care of themselves. she was there through every doctor’s appointment, the surgery itself, the follow up check ups, the radiation treatment—everything. she was there when her mother’s four year battle ended as she died surrounded by loved ones.

cheol had been there when his mother-in-law passed away peacefully ending her painful battle with the disease, whispering promises of taking care of you before he let you whisper your own promises to her before she took her final breath. he had comforted you as he took you in his arms as he reassured your mother was finally at peace and pain-free with the creator.

he took it upon himself to plan and arrange the funeral and let you spend the last few days with your mother before she was buried. you thanked him endlessly for that as you exchanged tearful kisses during the first night after your mother died. he had given you time to process the events, doting on you for everything you needed.

but it had been months and you were not getting better. sleep was a rarity for you and he could see the circles under your eyes darken with every passing day. you had lost so much weight as your appetite decreased.

“baby, please. you have got to eat,” he begged as he lifted a spoonful of your favorite food to your mouth.

“i’m not hungry right now,” you whispered as you leaned on the couch.

“you haven’t ate anything. it’s already past noon! you can’t starve yourself like this i won’t let you.” his eyes softened as he watched your eyes fill with tears.

“your mom wouldn’t want you to do this baby.”

“what do you know? you aren’t the one who lost her mom!” you snapped as your tears rolled down your cheeks.

“that isn’t fair—”

“life isn’t fair! it wasn’t fair when she got diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. it wasn’t fair that it went away only for it to reoccur months later. it wasn’t fair when she lost her appetite after rounds of radiation and chemo therapy. it wasn’t fair when she spent days or months in the hospital to get treated only for it not to work and it wasn’t fair that she was in pain for so long! nothing is ever fair, cheol.” you had tried to move on as everyone in your family did but it was so hard—a part of you died along with her when she took her final breath.

you had known she didn’t have much longer in this earth, her doctors told you as much the week leading up to her death. it did not make losing her easier though knowing her end was near. it was the opposite. knowing she was dying and there was nothing you could do to delay or stop it. guilt drowned your heart as you recalled your moments with her from childhood to early adulthood.

“i promised your mom i would take care of you! i know this is a hard time for you baby but you cannot let yourself waste away like this.” he cooed softly bringing you into her arms as he kissed your temple. “your mom would want you to take care of yourself the way you took care of her all those years.”

“i failed her cheol. god—i shoud’ve done more. i didn’t even speak at her funeral…” your chest heaved as you sobbed harder into his chest. his fingers running through your hair as his other hand rubbed your back comfortingly.

“hey, hey, hey…you did not fail her. you did what you could do with the resources you were given. you may not know it but your mom was strong because of you—not just the thought of you but you. she wanted to beat cancer’s ass because she wanted more time with you.” he reassured her as she pulled away sniffling.

she looked adorable despite her puffy red eyes and runny nose. to him, she could be wearing a potato sack and still find something to complement her and praise her for. he was that in love with her.

“you think so?”

“i know so.”

she thought back to the last few months and realized how selfish she had been. she wasn’t the only one grieving—cheol was too. he loved her mother just as much as she did. he drove her to doctor’s appointments and therapy sessions when she had work and couldn’t. he was at her bedside when she had just gotten out of surgery and helped her around the house as her mother recover for a few weeks. he was there through everything at her side never once complaining about being tired.

“i’m so sorry baby.” you had wrapped your arms around him pulling him down on the couch as sniffles escaped him.

“i can’t see you like this, it hurts me. i promised mom i’d take care of you yet you push me away. i only want to be there for you. let me be there for you, please.”

it was rare that he broke down. your heart broke as cheol wrapped his arms around your waist as he buried his face in the crook of your neck. you realized how much you’ve ignored his feelings whilst drowning in your grief.

“i’ve been selfish baby. i should’ve been there for you the way you were for me. fuck—i’m so sorry cheol.” you kiss the side of his head as you mutter apologies to him.

you don’t know how long you two spent crying and whispering to each other on the couch; minutes or hours? you genuinely didn’t feel the time pass until your stomachs grumbled in hunger. you watched your boyfriend get up to grab his phone and order food with a soft gaze.

cheol was too good for you but you were glad to have him. because in this life, you wouldn’t want anyone else to witness your highs and lows with and he’d say the same.

[adityamantri]

Gynecological Cancer Specialist In Aurangabad: Offering Hope And Expertise

Introduction:

Gynecological cancers pose first-rate demanding situations to girls’s fitness, frequently necessitating specialized care and personalized treatment methods. In Aurangabad, individuals grappling with these diagnoses may also locate solace and steerage inside the understanding of committed oncologists. In this weblog, we explore the function of gynecological most cancers experts in Aurangabad, losing slight at the avenues for desire and recovery they offer to patients and their families.

Understanding Gynecological Cancers:

Embody diverse malignancies affecting the female reproductive device, including ovarian, cervical, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. Each kind offers unique traits and might display up with wonderful signs, along with ordinary vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, or changes in urinary conduct. Early detection recurring screenings and cognizance of functionality chance factors are important in enhancing consequences for ladies at danger.

The Importance of Specialized Care:

When faced with a diagnosis of gynecological cancer, looking for care from a consultant with know-how in this discipline turns into vital. Gynecological oncologists possess specialized schooling inside the control of those malignancies, imparting complete assessment, superior remedy modalities, and compassionate aid during the journey. Their holistic approach addresses not most effective the physical aspects of the disease but also the emotional and psychological wishes of patients and their cherished ones.

OncoRelief Cancer Clinic: A Beacon of Hope

In Aurangabad, individuals in need of specialized care for gynecological cancers can turn to OncoRelief Cancer Clinic, a renowned institution dedicated to providing comprehensive oncology services. This content reads as if it is human-written. When faced with a diagnosis of gynecological cancer, looking for care from a consultant with know-how in this discipline turns into vital. This content reads as if it is human-written. Gynecological oncologists possess specialized schooling inside the control of those malignancies, imparting complete assessment, superior remedy modalities, and compassionate aid during the journey. This content reads as if it is human-written. Their holistic approach addresses not most effective the physical aspects of the disease but also the emotional and psychological wishes of patients and their cherished ones. Led by Dr. Aditya Mantari, a distinguished gynecological cancer specialist with five years of experience in surgical oncology, OncoRelief Cancer Clinic stands as a beacon of hope for individuals facing these daunting diagnoses.

Dr. Aditya Mantari: A Trusted Partner in Healing

Dr. Aditya Mantari’s expertise in gynecological oncology, coupled with his unwavering dedication to patient-centric care, makes him a trusted partner in the journey towards healing. With a keen focus on individualized treatment plans and a compassionate approach to patient support, Dr. Mantari empowers women to confront their diagnoses with courage and resilience. Through his leadership at OncoRelief Cancer Clinic, he ensures that every patient receives the highest standard of care, fostering hope and optimism in the face of adversity.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the presence of a dedicated gynecological cancer specialist in Aurangabad offers a ray of hope to women confronting these formidable diseases. With institutions like OncoRelief Cancer Clinic and experts like Dr. Aditya Mantari at the helm, individuals can access unparalleled expertise, advanced treatment options, and compassionate support on their journey towards healing. Remember, you are not alone in this fight — reach out, seek guidance, and embrace the hope that comes with expert care.

For More Info Visit Website:- www.oncorelief.in

[msbarrybeeson]

Before You Go | Future Donnie & April Insight (Part VI)

(Reader Included)

A/N: Any constructive criticism is appreciated. Reader comments and feedback are also welcomed a lot. 

I have been gone for a long time. Just occupied with my studies! No fan fiction author curse or anything (yet).

Summary: You’re both adopting-parents of Casey. The story follows the perspective of Donatello and April O’Neil during the Kraang apocalypse. You and Leonardo decided to ask them to watch over thirteen-year-old Casey.

In other words, familial interactions between April, Donnie, and Casey Jr.

Reader: Gender-neutral pronouns are used, except the terms “(Mom / Dad)” are also used. Second POV.

Pairing: Rise! Future! Leonardo X Reader

Warnings: Bittersweet.

Word Count:  ~3490

Parts: One / Two / Three / Four / Five / Six / ...

~

Donnie knew how much of a genius he was.

It was no surprise after all. In his late teens, he improved NASA’s satellites to communicate with planets light centuries away. He cured breast cancer through the use of protons in radiation therapy to target specific cells, rather than affecting the harmless. Hell, he even managed to discover a new type of radioactive particles: mutons. By that point, he—.

“—should have been given a Nobel Prize in Medicine and in Chemistry.” Donnie cursed under his breath. He strolled over to his lab bench, equipping his goggles.

Squeeeak. 

April– who was found seated on Donnie’s roughed-up, spinning gaming chair– raised an eyebrow. Her hair had grown out and was left unbounded. Faint wrinkles and eye bags on her features displayed maturity, in contrast to a couple of years ago. However, everyone was well aware that time was not the only factor. 

“Whatcha going on about now, Donnie?”

The softshell huffed. “Recall when I wrote a report about my experimental findings with an invention meant to revive a deceased human being?”

“...You mean the one where you thought it was a good idea to open up Curie’s tomb? Even gone as far as to ask for my help?” April grimaced. “Who’d ever forget that.”

She proceeded to massage her temples. 

“God. You were in all kinds of messed up for that, Don.”

Lightning-like yellow sparks flickered as Donnie had his robotic hands occupied with a butane torch. His goggles were sealed tight around his eyes as he built a oval-looking device on his lab bench. Titanium outer-layer over a seriously complex circuit-board; appearing as if Samsung marketed grenades.

He scoffed. “Oh please. It wasn’t as if I’d taken long to understand how Marie Curie deserves her rest for her great contributions to radiation. Thus is why–.”

“–You decided to take a poor random husband of an old wife,” April interjected.

“Ahem.” Donnie pronounced. “The poor woman was begging me for her husband to be alive again. I was simply gracious and generous enough to not charge her for the process.” He set aside the butane torch. “At least it progressed well; he stayed alive for an additional two years. It gave his wife psychological comfort, and I was able to submit my paper to the N.S.F..” 

He picked up a screwdriver. “Except....” 

April could tell her friend’s eye was twitching. 

“They rejected my findings, nearly had me detained, and claimed it was far too ‘unethical.’” Donnie raised his volume. “Scoff! As if those researchers weren’t committing the crime themselves! Taking bodies away from families and claiming them as scientific property without permission.

If I could go back in time and shove my documents in their jaws, you bet I would.”

April smirked. “Well, I have my regrets too, Donnie.”

“You sound rather amused, April. Is that so surprising? And here I never thought you would regret your part-time job at Albearto’s. Or the fact you wasted money to switch to journalism in university.”

WHACK!

April threw her bat at Donnie’s head, flying back to her hand like a boomerang.

“Watch your mouth, mister. I may have regretted Albearto’s, but not a single moment in my life did I ever regret my journalism passion.” She stood up.

“Ouch.” The softshell vocalized, squinting his eyes toward her. His robotic clampers paused, setting aside the torch and taking off his goggles. 

“Mind yourself, April. Horse-playing is forbidden in the laboratory. I am not consenting to having yet another silver-titanium apparatus get scratched because of you.” Donnie gritted his teeth. “Can you hear the negative connotation?”

“Seriously, Donnie? Where’d that come from? Not only was that years ago but it ain’t anything except a simple accident.” 

“‘Simple accident?’” the softshell repeated with dramatic offense. “An accident, like many others in science labs, which could have caused severe damage! Remember the incident when your teacher dumped bleach and vinegar into the trash bin?

You know, if you had paid any attention in your chemistry class, those two would make mustard gas?” Donnie side-eyed his friend. “Simple accidents can have serious consequences, O’Neil.”

A hand crept up the lab bench.

“Uh-huh, and I’m supposed to believe an instance of me knocking over your phone and books would kill somebody?” April crossed her arms. “If anything, the blame’s yours for not organizing your desk when you got drunk on coffee.”

The hand took ahold of the butane torch.

“Donatello? Disorganized? Sounds cheap coming from you, a student majoring in Journalism.”

April pulled up her coat’s sleeves. “Oh boy, you’re about to get it—.”

Squeeeak!

Heads spun and found a 13-year old boy, replacing April’s spot on Donnie’s chair. Casey eyed the torch with a great yet concerning amount of curiosity.

“Yo, what’s this for, Uncle Don?”

At lightning speed, while April ran to move the gaming chair away further from the workbench, Donnie snatched the tool from his hands. “Child. Casey. Young man.” The softshell heaved loudly. “I must inform you this is NOT meant to be handled with such casual ease. How in Hawking did you even—.”

“Don’t your lab have a passcode or something?” 

“–Is what I am wondering myself, O’Neil. I refuse to believe this child remembers the beginning thirty numbers of π–.”

“Nope, only us.” April and Donnie lifted their gazes to his lab entrance. You leaned on the frame while a dear red-eared slider stood just behind. A couple of steps inside, and the metallic lab door shut close. 

Donnie– strangely– was quick to hide his device-in-progress off to the side.

“You’re back!” April grinned. “Hell, you would not believe the convo Donnie and I were having a minute ago.” She hurried to hug you.

“Figures,” Leo remarked. “We could practically hear you yards off.”

“Sounds like things never get old.” You smiled.

There was a side-eye between Donnie and April, before the Commander proceeded to inquire, coughing: “Anyhow.. care to explain the occasion? You two don’t seem to be in a hurry.”

“The only times you ever visit my laboratory are to prepare for immediate combat engagement, and you look awfully collected.” The softshell furrowed his brows.

“No, no.” You waved your hands, shaking your head. “Thank God no. We came here to ask if you two could take care of our Casey here while we head out.” The other turtle scrunched his in-quote eyebrows. “You— You came here to request us to... babysit him?”

April jabbed him in his plastron.

“You see? Just like I said.” Leo turned to you. “I know my brother, love. Don’s not the kind of guy to take responsibility for a kid. Or anyone, really.”

“Hold on.” Donnie narrowed his eyes. “I never said I refused, Leo.”

“Don’t know, it sounds like it to me.”

“Well, my misinformed brother, contrary to your belief, I am perfectly capable of handling a child.”

You huffed with amusement. Your husband only winked back.

“If you say so, Don.”

“Where are you two heading off for if you needed us to watch over him?” April inquired. “Wondering, ‘cause this never happened even when you two leave for patrol.”

“Just finding some time for ourselves.”

April exclaimed, “As in a honeymoon? Why not just say so? We’ll leave you two alone–.”

“–In this economy and climate?” Donnie interjected. “Has it also not been six years since your yet-to-be-legal marriage?”

“Alright, alright,” Leonardo chuckled. “Cut us some slack, bro. Finding time wasn’t easy when there’s Kraang above our necks.”

“Right, and you’re going on a honeymoon, how?” The softshell crossed his arms. “Simply because you’re the leader does not equate to you making wise decisions, Leo.”

“His ōdachi can teleport anyone to anyplace, we have some hope we can easily teleport to a remote area,” you answered. ��One without Kraang infestation. It’ll be hard, but we may as well try.”

“Bonus points if we find clear skies and an ocean.” The red-eared turtle grinned, wrapping his arm over your shoulders.

“What’s a honeymoon, (Mom / Dad)?”

Your hand went to caress Casey’s cheek. “Parent quality time. It just means you get to handle yourself like the responsible grown-up you’ll become one day. Just promise me you’ll be on your best behavior around Uncle Don and Auntie April?”

“I promise, (Mom / Dad)!”

“Good boy,” Leo laughed, ruffling the kid’s hair.

“You didn’t ask Mikey and Raph to help out too, or?”

“Between you and me, I think you guys are better of making sure Casey doesn’t get into any chaos,” you whispered to April. “Don’t tell them that, though.”

She laughed. “Okay, I see how it is. You both have fun.” 

Donnie bit his lip. Right as Leonardo and (Name) turn to exit the laboratory, he extended his arm out to them.

“Leo, (Name).”

You two faced back to him once more.

“Don’t kill yourselves out there.”

Everyone’s eyes widened– April, you, and Leonardo himself. But the brother in blue snickered, holding a smile that reached his eyes. “So you do also care for me, Don. And all this time I thought you were plotting to put me in my grave or something.”

“We won’t.” Leo placed a hand on your shoulder. “You got my word.”

“Bye (Mom / Dad)! Bye Papa!”

“We’ll be back soon, Casey!”

Donnie stood in silence as you finally left, leaving himself with none other than his best friend and his nephew. “I refuse to believe this is the future we have to deal with.”

“Times changed all of us, didn’t they?” April spoke. “One day we wish each other a good one, and the next, we hope we just don’t die. I could’ve been a famous news anchor by now, make my mother happy, fight crime without worrying about dying the next second.

..I wonder if there’s anyone else out there besides the small number of us down here.”

“..I doubt it.”

Donnie pulled himself together and walked back to his workbench, operating his clampers to work once again. He put on his goggles. Casey, being a young teenager of enthusiasm, peeked over.

“Watch yourself, boy,” April warned.

“Don’t worry about me, Auntie. I’m only standing over here.” Casey narrowed his eyes upon the glowing and metal-like ball his uncle had his tools on. “What are you working on, Uncle Don?”

“A sphere.”

“A sphere?”

“You heard correctly.”

“That sounds kind of boring.”

Donnie had to hold himself back from remarking with: ‘That is exactly what every child whose intellect is doomed would say.’

“I’m sure your mother would find it rather moving.”

“(Mom / Dad)? I don’t understand what’s emotional about a ball, though.”

“Hey Casey.” April coughed. “Why not tell us about your mask here? Haven’t taken a good look at it before. Maybe Uncle Don would like to hear it too.”

“You actually want me to talk about my mask?”

“Ain’t a problem, is it?”

“No.” He fidgeted with his fingers a bit. “You don’t have anything else to do?”

“We were just told to watch over you, kid.”

“Yeah, but everyone I know is always busy with the Kraang or supplying weapons. I never really get chances to hang out.”

There was a brief pause in the butane torch’s flame.

April’s expression softened. Her hand came up to brush his black hair. “Things have gotten calmer up there. So you’ve got plenty of time with us now.”

Casey smiled.

“So your mask?” 

The boy alternated between covering his face and removing it. “(Mom / Dad) gave it to me. She told me it is based on the one worn by my biological mother. (Mom / Dad) also said that my birth mother was kind of crazy-funny and likes to be loud. She would have a stick to play– what was it– hockey?

I don’t know what kind of game hockey is supposed to be, but I guess it’s nice to know how life was like before all the Kraang.”

A sad smile crept on April’s lips. 

“Anyways, I thought the mask looked kind of plain, so I decided to draw red marks on it. See?” Casey showed his mask off, fingers tapping the surface. “Guess who it looks like!”

There were two bold and thick streaks of red. Each one ran through one eye, truly a defining characteristic. The Commander chuckled, already imagining how much pride her friend in blue would feel from the fact a kid– let alone one he had been parenting– looked up to him so much.

“You know, I am seeing someone familiar here.” April hummed as she put on a thoughtful facade. Fingers holding her chin and everything. “Got to be Uncle Don.”

Named turtle paused for a moment and raised a brow.

“Seriously, Auntie April?” On the other hand, Casey gave her an incredulous look and shook his head. “You probably want to get your eyes checked out, ‘cause Uncle Don doesn’t have any red stripes.” Off to the side. “And even if he did, he won’t look as cool as Dad.”

April snickered behind her palm as Donnie eyed the boy from behind his goggles.

“You’re right, you’re right. Just messing with you, kid.” Her hand ruffled his hair once more. “Sounds like you really admire your Papa, don’t you?”

“Why wouldn’t I? Dad has an awesome sword that opens up portals. He always moves so quickly whenever he’s fighting. Bam! And the Kraang’s gone!” The teenager stretched his arm for emphasis. “Even as the leader, Papa knows when to get serious and when to make people laugh. He also cares a lot about me, (Mom / Dad), you guys, and everyone!”

It made even Donnie himself smile. 

However, the way Casey’s enthusiasm died down had not gone unnoticed. “I’ve always wanted to help out though.” He sighed, shoulders slumping. “I want to fight the Kraang right by his and (Mom / Dad)’s side. Except I barely get the chance to, because they keep telling me to stay close to base and hide behind a giant rock.”

April crossed her arms and went quiet. His feelings were nothing new. In fact, she experienced the same thing herself, seeing she had always been a human. It was like that until–.

“Have no hard feelings,” Donnie spoke up, his hands and eyes remained on his spheric gadget. The sparks were flying. “Your parents are merely worried about your well-being.”

“I know, I know. They won’t have to though, if I can have enough training or something.” Casey sighed. “Then again, I also know I’m only a normal sensitive human.

...Why can’t I be a mutant instead?”

“Ahem. You are classified as a human. That is a true statement and one you cannot change.” Donnie hummed. “However, that does not mean you cannot be strong and capable in other ways.”

“Why does it sound like you’ve been in my place before?”

“Perhaps I did. Did you truly think being a soft-shell turtle is easy? I happened to be born as one of the only Testudines species whose outer shell cannot protect.” Donnie remarked. “Casey, your mask.” His hand signaled.

“What about my mask?”

“I merely want to add something.”

Confused, he hopped off the chair and handed the mask over. “Hmm. As long as you don’t mess with the stripes, Uncle Don.”

“Who says I won’t?”

Casey kicked Donnie’s leg.

“‘Ow,’ I say sarcastically without feeling physical pain.”

“Hmph.” He crossed his arms. “Why do you keep saying things like that?”

“Such as?”

“You say those action verbs, even when you’re already doing them.”

April snorted. “Just his thing, kid. Uncle Don’s got his special quirks.”

“Do you have a quirk?”

“Picking unnecessary fights for one,” Donnie commented.

“You only call them ‘unnecessary,’ because you never want to fix the problem.”

He rolled his eyes. “My solution would’ve been ten times more efficient if you had allowed my technology and I to do the work.”

Casey wondered. “Does your tech ever go haywire, Uncle Don?”

“No.”

“Oh man,” April began, “you should’ve been there for this one time. Your Uncle Don was building some kind of overprotective bed to keep your late Gramps from waking up from his beauty sleep.”

“Gramps likes to sleep?”

“You’d be surprised to hear that he sure does.”

“Then what happened?”

“Uncle Don asked your Dad, Uncle Mikey, and Uncle Raph to try punching, slicing, throwing whatever they could on the bed. They were attacking it like crazy!”

“And then?” 

“And the bed was even more insane, ‘cause there were actual missiles shooting out! They went straight for his brothers. At some point, it got overboard, so Uncle Don tried to command it to stop.”

“I’m hearing a ‘but’ coming.”

“But it malfunctioned and thought Uncle Don was the enemy!”

“However!” Donnie pointed his finger up, interrupting the story-telling. “It did not take long for my creation to recognize his master.”

“Still went haywire in my book,” April remarked. 

“Ignoring that.” His robotic hand tapped the edge of his workbench, grabbing Casey’s attention. “Come here, young man.” He slid back the mask, except in his hands, it felt as if the frame had thicken.

“It looks the same, but it doesn’t feel the same?”

“Try wearing it over your face.”

The boy did as told. All of a sudden, a bunch of green rectangles and words appeared in his vision. He gasped in awe. He spun around slowly, watching the rectangle focus on a figure through the wall.

“Yes yes, I know. I am well aware of how amazing I am.” Donnie huffed in pride. “I have opted to construct an interface with your mask. I cannot see why you shouldn’t have something to defend yourself with,” he reasoned. “I have other updates in mind later on. As of now, however, your mask will help you detect life forms across other rooms or through other objects.” 

“That’s so cool!” The boy hesitated though. “But I don’t want to break it or anything.”

“Hey.” April rested her hand on Casey’s shoulder, giving a firm squeeze. “Our resources are already scarce. Using then losing them is better than nothing. You better make the most of our tech. Understood, soldier?”

Casey grinned underneath his mask. He fixed his posture up and saluted. “Gotcha–! Understood, Commander!” 

He faced the inventor, whose hands were already back to being occupied with the “sphere.” “Thanks so much, Uncle Don!” Casey exclaimed, leaping towards the turtle to give a tight hug. “You’re the best!” 

Upon contact, Donnie stiffened up, but his lack of experience with physical touch did not prevent a smile forming on his face. He extended a robotic arm, patting Casey’s back. 

The boy then scanned around curiously with his mask. “Hey! Think I spot Uncle Mikey and Uncle Raph two floors down! They’re holding hands over a table or something. Why are so many people circling around them?”

April rolled her eyes. “Sounds like another arm-wrestling match between the our youngest and oldest brother.” 

Just like that, Casey booked it out of the laboratory so quickly, it reminded her of a certain red-eared slider. “What the–! Casey!” April groaned. “And here I thought we don’t have to deal with runaway kids. I better catch up to him.” 

“Would not worry about him too much,” Donnie commented. 

“What do you mean by that?”

“Considering we will not always be alive to protect him... the sooner we leave him to himself, the easier it will be for him to survive alone.” 

“Hey. Come on now.” April walked to her best friend’s side. “Don’t you say things like that. We’re all going to survive this together–.”

“April.” Slight pain wavered in his voice. “You know as well as I do how our current reality is. It is only a matter of time before the Kraang finds everyone.” 

“Yet you’re still here trying.”

No response.

“It’s all because of the kid, isn’t it?” April affirmed. “He ain’t any genius prodigy you were expecting long ago. But he gave you a reason to try– he became someone worth fighting for.”

“I would not put it as simply as that.”

She shrugged. “That’s how I’d say it. You know you’re not the only one whose life changed because of Casey.”

Donnie paused his work, turning off the butane torch and finally pulling his goggles off his eyes again. “...Casey reminds me of when we were young, being rash and immature teenagers like any other. I hate admitting to such thing, but I was one too. And I hate admitting much more how much I missed those times.

The child has known nothing of the trouble we’ve experienced outside, April: when Cassandra was killed, when Draxum was torn apart, when Dad decided to sacrifice himself despite the slim odds.” His hands clenched into fists.

“Do not expect me to have any false hope for our future, but do not assume I would want Casey to feel the same way. For as long as he can, I want him to hold onto that false hope.”

“...” April had her arms crossed. Her eyes slowly came to linger on the workbench. “Is that ‘sphere’ his false hope?”

“..No. Not his.” Donnie traced his thumb over his contraption. “It’s for (Name).”