Today we recognize Lindsay MacDonald from Genesis Care. Lindsay has been a radiation therapist for over six years and has recently transitioned into the Center Leader at her facility. During our discussion, she dove into the path that led to becoming a radiation therapist, as well as the challenges that are faced within this profession.

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Lindsay was inspired to become a radiation therapist when her grandfather passed away from lung cancer. "When he got diagnosed, he was a little too far along, so I thought, you know, if I had a background in it, I could be able to help more people and hopefully avoid instances like that in the future." Lindsay's intimacy with cancer care drove her passion for helping make a lasting difference in people's lives.

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Being a radiation therapist allows you to see patients at their most vulnerable states, and it is vital to be a positive light in their journey. Lindsay elaborated on the obstacles that come with her career as a radiation therapist. "It can be really busy, we see a lot of tough cases and deal with losing patients, but it is more rewarding than upsetting." Lindsay interacts with patients at their lowest of lows, becoming emotionally invested in her patients' well-being. "There is nothing like the feeling of when a patient comes back and is cancer-free."

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The theme of this year's National Radiologic Technology Week is "Building on our history, creating a future." In what way have you seen cancer care transform our future?

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"In the past six years, newer technology, such as surface guided radiation therapy (SGRT), allows us to do higher doses to smaller areas and spare the critical structures. Patients have fewer side effects as far as skin reactions and less dosage to the surrounding structures. We're seeing advancements in the treatment experience as a result of technology."

 

Lindsay, your compassion and dedication to serving others has made a lasting impact on cancer care! We sincerely appreciate all you do for cancer patients and for your willingness to share your insights with us this week.

 

About RSA

RSA is a privately-owned company founded in 1995 and based in North Carolina. They are an ISO 9001:2015 Certified independent service provider for radiotherapy equipment, most notably external beam linear accelerators (Varian, Elekta, Siemens). For over 25-years, RSA has supported the oncology community by delivering responsive, personable, and proactive service to help clients deliver their best care. Learn more about their company, their culture, and their services at www.rsa-inc.com. We look forward to meeting you!

 

About the author

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LIZZIE IRVIN

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Client Relationship Manager

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Lizzie joined our team in 2020 to help identify, develop, and grow relationships with the oncology community, specifically around day-to-day maintenance service of linacs. Prior to joining RSA, she graduated from the University of North Carolina (Chapel Hill) with a degree in Marketing and Entrepreneurship. Lizzie comes from a strong background in connecting people, having worked within her local community through volunteer and child services for almost 10-years.