The Toxic Twins

Well, this is my 5th week of chemo and my 2nd periodic update. Chemo consists of 5 decadron pills and 10 procytox pills - the toxic twins - every Monday morning. In my first go-round with the beast 2 years ago my chemotherapy was intravenous. The pills are more convenient - no weekly trips to the hospital - but they're no less effective.

And the treatment brings with it the same wonderful side effects. The biggest side effect is lack of energy. The couch and I have a most intimate relationship these days and are on a first-name basis. The second is insomnia, particularly the first 2-3 nights after chemo. Hello, again, couch. I'd have to say the third effect is an increased appetite but that's neutralized by a distinct lack of taste. As in tasting food - I still can't dress myself appropriately. And finally, I notice a diminished ability to focus over an extended period of time. Wha? What was I just saying?

The other Toxic Twins

Before I zone out completely, did you hear about the guy who hand't been feeling well so he decided to see his doctor. The doctor examined him and referred him to the hospital to see various specialists. After a couple of weeks, all the test results came through, so the guy returned to see his doctor.

"I'm very sorry", said the doctor. "I'm afraid I have bad news and worse news."

"Tell me the worst."

"I'll be honest, you have cancer, you'll be dead in three months."

"Shit! " said the guy. "What on earth is the bad news?"

"You also have Alzheimer's Disease."

"Alzheimer's? Oh well, at least I don't have cancer."