Sunday, May 3, 2009

What's In A Name?

Cancer.I've thought about this a lot lately. Our last two visits to doctors were both to see surgeons who primarily treat cancer patients. Their offices were filled with a collection of bald-headed chemo patients and those wearing masks to prevent infection. It is truly heartbreaking. While Alex and I were saddened to see this it also opened her eyes. "I'm really sick, aren't I?" It's funny; you tell someone Cushing's Disease, and you might as well have said you have a headache. You tell them cancer and the world changes. I'm not diminishing cancer by any means, but it would be nice to have a "label" that would help people understand the seriousness of this disease. My mom had cancer, my dad had cancer, even Brian had skin cancer, but they got a diagnosis, got treatment and were able to go on with life.

I don't think it's completely accurate but some text books state that the survival rate for Cushing's is 50% at 5 years if untreated. Add to that that the typical patient doesn't get properly diagnosed for 7 years. Nice discrepancy, huh? I'm sure it sounds dramatic but some days I'm really scared we won't make it to the finish line. Surgery doesn't scare me, the disease does.

2 comments:

  1. Hi Rene, found your blog after a morning on cushings-help.com I had to post a comment on this latest entry... I have often felt the same about the Cushings diagnosis and cancer and I too have had two close family members diagnosed with cancer one is at 5 yrs post and my fa.passed from it 15 years ago so I know what you mean. Why are we poked prodded scanned and misdiagnosed so frequently (it can be just as deadly! it takes away quality of life! Causes enormous loss of $$$.
    Why do we have to PROVE our illness. A tumor is found get it out it is obviously causing issues ya know what I mean. Anyways I could get on a major soap box but I will spare you just wanted to let you know Im right there with you! I wish you and Alex all the best I have a 14 yr old DD and can only imagine your struggles You will be in my prayers and thoughts all the best! lisa (monalisa1966)

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  2. Lisa,
    Thank you for stopping by and commenting.We aren't the only ones who feel this way!

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