One of the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation is fatigue. It can hit suddenly and unpredictably, leaving household chores undone. It means that the dishes pile up in the sink, the dishwasher stays full, and the mounds of dirty laundry are impressive. (I call it “Mount Washmore” for a reason.)

Sometimes my “chemo brain” will decide to take on a chore but lose the capacity to concentrate part way through the task. I don’t finish what I started. Sheets get washed an extra time (Or two. Or three.) It’s frustrating. If I push myself to get it done, the results are… well, uneven in quality, especially when I “creatively” file things. Like the cat’s rabies shot certificate in the “termites” folder.

Why am I sharing this? Because cancer patients and survivors live with invisible side effects every day. We don’t necessarily want to share why we’re limping (neuropathy) or are out of breath (anemia and de-conditioning). We are frustrated by our poor concentration and memory issues. We are used to bodies that are reliable, and these new chemo-inspired glitches feel like betrayal.

All this to say: I’m not complaining. I’m “truth-blogging” the unvarnished life I live. Like many cancer patients, every story I tell on myself is a way to gain control and keep my sense of humor.

Today the dishes got washed and put away. The front flower bed was weeded. I paid a few bills and picked up my grocery order. Woohooo!!! Success! Just don’t be surprised if I file the papers you need under “termites”…