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Updates:

     20th August 2004:  It is now exactly two years since I started radiotherapy and the news remains reassuringly good. I am, thankfully, still in remission so hospital reviews have been extended to three months, and dental reviews to six months.
     There is still no sign of my appetite returning, but I am used to that and it doesn't bother me. I eat a healthy diet and regulate the quantity to keep my weight stable. No appetite means I am never tempted to snack between meals or overfill my plate, so weight control is easy. My sense of taste has slightly improved which makes mealtimes less of a chore, but restricted saliva continues to limit the selection of foods I can comfortably manage. Similarly, the surfaces of my tongue are still very sensitive to any pepper or acidic foods. Chewing special gum has been a great help in keeping my mouth moist and my tongue exercised. I no longer need to always carry a bottle of water every where I go. 
    Mentally I am much more relaxed and less prone to irrational anxiety.  I am  recovering control of my life and thinking about future events in terms of years instead of months. Thinking positively really helps.

    21st November 2004: My recent routine clinical review was again reassuring and I can relax for another three months. My dental review was not so good and identified some new decay which requires fixing. I will have to modify my oral hygiene to include more fluoride and consume less sugar.

    My social life has improved considerably now that my mouth can tolerate beer again, and I was able to celebrate my recent 62nd birthday. Wine is still too acidic and spirits  too alcoholic, but beer is fine. Still no appetite, but I do think about food lately, so perhaps something is stirring deep down in my subconscious.