I have a pretty uncommon cancer and a very rare presentation of it. The cancer is metastatic and spreads through the lymphatic system in my neck, blocking most of the drainage of my lymph system. For a while the usual treatments worked fine, particularly massage and exercise, which I did every day and with some wonderful therapists. But as the cancer has continues to spread and increase, it does not work. Now I am on steroids which help a tiny bit, but which cause swelling in other ways. (no win, huh?)

I know that I do not have that much time left available to me (no violins please!), but I just want to enjoy the time that I have with friends and family. The frustrating thing of course about OC is that from the neck down I am "healthy" and in good shape.

Appreciate the comments, it makes me think a lot about self-perceptions, what we see versus what we feel, and how we judge ourselves...