Who Decides?

Did you ever wonder who makes the big decisions regarding things that go on to become common wisdom accepted by all? For example, gold. Who decided that gold was the most precious commodity on earth? Why did gold win over, say, soy beans?

Gold's reputation has been consistent over time, societies and geography. What makes it so special? Is it the color? Surely sunflowers are as striking. Is it the space? An ounce of gold is more compact than an ounce of feathers.

And how did gold become so popular? Did its reputation spread by word of mouth or some other method? Did Mr Neanderthal stub his toe on a gold nugget, pick it up, and show it to the rest of the clan? Everybody oohed and ahhed and fell in love with gold. Is that how it started?

These things keep me awake at night.

Realities of Rare Cancers

By now I thought I would be involved in chemo and radiation. And I should be. However, the reality is that a treatment protocol for duodenal cancer does not exist because of the rarity of this form of cancer. So I'm waiting for an appointment and assessment at a much larger cancer center. They are supposed to design a treatment program that will be given to the regional cancer center so I can be treated locally.

Imagine my shock when I kept my first appointment at the cancer center only to be told "We don't know what to do with you because your form of cancer is so rare." One source I found on the internet said that fewer than 7000 cases of duodenal cancer were reported in 2007. I can't imagine that anyone is doing research on a cancer affecting so few patients. My best hope will be to become a participant in a clinical trial.

In the meantime, I sit here waiting. Anyone know any bald jokes?

You Want Me to Walk a WHAT In These Shoes?

Here's Shasta, our ambitious cat.