Doug,

You know that I know all-too-well the situation you describe (I am living with Amy's daughter who has MS). You have articulated it very well.

The major nit I have is the use of the Brutus allusion. I do not think it works in the context of this. It makes the reader stop and ponder what that character could possibly have to do with your "situation." We could so easily misinterpret your intent. In fact, without your explanation to Diane, I would have still been tryin g to figure out where "conspiracy" fits in here.

This is very well presented and I may re-visit and offer more suggestions.

Norm

Forgive me if I'm interpreting this wrong:
I see the N commenting on IV medication being given
with the hope of slowing disease process. The stealth disease is the enemy. It's found ways in which to invade, but hasn't spoiled the character of the "victim" (his courage, his spirit). The burning's the needle going in; its entry "inflames the lust for life" signifying "ain't gonna let this stop me!"

In that regard, the only line that slowed the otherwise beauty of the flow of your words was Quote:
I thought guilt might be placed upon the "stabber", the inserter, but didn't relate it to anything else. and Quote:
still hangs me up, except in the context of the N not accepting guilt, not being responsible for this disease. 

Also, I see this as not just one day of "chemotherapy" but a resolve to keep fighting with the treatments as scheduled, despite knowing how pernicious is the enemy's intent.

What diehard determination this expresses. 
I hope I'm right, or at least not "out in left field" somewhere, dona quixote floundering about.

If I am right, and the N is you, I sincerely wish you WELL!