I’d hate to be an oncologist. Treatments are so horrific. I hope this new breast cancer treatment indicates that we are turning a corner away from the medieval leechery of heavy radiation, massive chemotherapy, and prophylatic amputation that has been dominant.
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Yes, good news indeed. And Mary at Body Electric reports on cancer sniffing dogs. See:
http://body2see.blogspot.com/2006/01/best-friend.html
Maybe in our lifetime yet, Frank…
Frank, brachytherapy has been available at UW hospital for a while. Not sure how long but when I was diagnosed with BC almost a year ago this was presented as an established option. Unfortunately I ended up not qualifying but would have done it even though it looks kind of freaky. My radiation oncologist said it was equally effective as standard radiation although the article you referenced indicates the jury is still out.
I want to talk up the UW Comprehensive Cancer Center. We have a true gem in our midst. We are the fortunate recipients of state of the art medical treatments and technology due to close association with UW research coupled with a progressive attitude. The center is extremely well set up with the patients in mind. Within the center is a blood lab and pharmacy just for cancer patients, so you can get everything done without leaving the area. And the nurses and other caregivers are terrific. When you’re sick from chemo and dealing with CANCER fer crissake, the little things really make a difference.
and hey…thanks for noticing!
gv,
it’s been too long. I’m glad you stopped by! Maybe I’ll run into you at Wilmar some Tuesday? (As if I’ve been attending the MAPC meetings…).