Drink of Choice: The usual. I’m buying. Stop by. Anytime. Music of Choice: The Cranberries. Sad news there recently.
Got Chemically Castrated today. Number seven. Of thirteen. Seventh time in six months. But. Only six more to go. Over the hump. Another month of the pills (Apalutamide) after my last injection and then Bob’s your Uncle. Two weeks from today is day 183- half way.
As this blog and indeed this year is one of discovery and research into treatment for Stage III Prostate Cancer, I have some discoveries to share.
Last few blogs have been borderline depressing and for good reason- I was borderline depressed. As of today I say, “Fuck That.” I have taken back control of this. And here’s how.
But first, let’s look at what took me down.
- The Drugs. Oft discussed in these pages and on the airwaves- “Men. Do you suffer from Low ‘T?’ Why yes, I do. Pray tell, what are the symptoms Mr. Radio Announcer Man. “Can’t seem to get out of bed? Avoiding the gym? Low energy? Afternoon Tee Times? Feeling ‘Low?’ Maybe you, like many men, suffer from Low testosterone. Call 888-GETNUTS (888-438-6887). We can help.” Well, no you can’t, but thanks for playing.
- Circadian Issues. This started before all this. January and half February have been increasingly difficult to deal with as I have gotten older. I need sun. All Hail Ra! Combined with The Drugs, this winter was near unbearable. I have to start getting away a bit from here on out.
- The two items above combined for a one- two punch that, frankly, laid me out like Sonny Liston afta Cassius Clay got angry wit him.
But no more. That part of the program is over, please turn to page three.
When I started treatment I said, and somehow knew, that exercise would be the key to survival. And it is . I am back, in full earnest. Doubles, M-F, singles on Saturday, long walks/ hikes on Sunday. And it works. I feel SO MUCH BETTER. My theory- and my Oncologist doesn’t disagree- is that the exercise released endorphins offset the testosterone loss to some degree. Its all hormones and the human body is a miracle at adaptation.
So from here on out- Fuck Side effects. Hot flashes, lethargy, I don’t care. Exercise will win the day.
Its all downhill from here. Come September I will be officially cured. I will not die from or with prostate cancer. The Good Lord will have to look for different ways. Many are available. I’m wary of Buses.
In the meantime, I don’t get here without the support of friends and family- you. My heartfelt thanks. Much Love,
Jay
My Year as a Eunuch 