The Cost of Living

Needles in, drains outTry not to cry; try not to shoutBreathe. Don’t breathe. The testing is almost doneMore blood tests to confirm the reality you can’t escape fromThe treatment may kill you and the side effects are graveIn goes the toxins...Don’t worry! Be brave!We’ve almost cured you but not beforeWe introduce you to the porch surrounding Death’s doorYou’re in remission! You’re so lucky!Now let’s talk about late effects; some can be yuckyYou’ll be trapped in a body that you’re not sure is yoursBut that’s the price we pay these days for curesYou have organ damage and won’t bear children of your ownBut you’re a survivor! Don’t piss and moan!Also, here’s the bill...yeah, living is very expensiveHey, you didn’t die! Don’t get defensiveAlso you get to enjoy the luxury of constant fearThat the remission won’t last, that your marrow won’t remain clearNow get out there survivor; put on a brave face!And endure those side effects, debt, and crippling fear of relapse with grace