A Heartfelt Thanks to the DU Lounge

[Mike03]

The past five months have been a difficult and new experience for me and my family, as a loved one was diagnosed with a serious form of cancer. Today I was reflecting on how much good advice I've received--and 80% of it has come from people here at DU who have been through similar experiences.

I can't tell you how many mistakes I HAVE NOT MADE as a direct result of compassionate, intelligent advice here. You inspired me to be more assertive in seeking answers, test results, and speaking out for this person. You gave me insight into how doctors think and why they with-hold information from patients, and how to get it from them in a friendly way. You also gave me a reality check on even some smaller issues like whether to get the influenza vaccine or not. More than that, it was really comforting to receive so much of this excellent advice from people who have been through a similar experience, or are currently going through it--sharing your stories; or, help has come from medical professionals or wise people. Even the mods cut me some slack when I asked generally medical questions about chemotherapy that probably should have been asked in some other venue. All I can say is that you guys have helped me a hell of a lot.

I had really nowhere else to turn for answers to these questions, but the help received here was irreplaceable.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

:loveya:

[MrMickeysMom]

1. I probably wasn't any of that, Mike03, but am a health care practitioner...

(respiratory care) and would have been glad to sprinkle tid bits of any information which may have helped...

MMM :hug:

[Mike03]

4. Aw, thank you!

It all helps, even the good vibes tonight from people like you.

Health care professions have incredibly hard jobs, I am learning. It has to be one of the most difficult occupations of all.

[MrMickeysMom]

8. Actually, I find it a profession that I've grown to love...

It's taken a number of years in various parts of the health care continuum to "develop" this attitude. But, when you know your stuff, you WANT to help people know how to take care of themselves the best way you can. Conversly, the illusion of knowledge is dangerous, so you tend to be careful of what you DON'T know under those circumstances.

[Flaxbee]

2. I don't think I was one of the helpful ones, but you are more than

welcome!

I ask for help here quite frequently, too, ranging from frivolous concerns to serious ones (like when my sister was diagnosed with a nasty cancer). It can really be a great place! :hi:

[Mike03]

5. My heart goes out to you and your sister

Cancer is a hideous disease.

Like you, I have found great help here not just for serious concerns but also the frivolous ones--you are right. Like what to feed my dog.

Best wishes to you and your sister.

[Parche]

7. Hey Flaxee

How is she doing? :hug: :hi:

[SPKrazy]

3. dunno if i've helped any

but i certainly have been through the loved one going through chemo and i work in the health care system (social worker in a hospital) and have a good understanding of that morass of insanity known as a hospital.

hope you continue to find what you need Mike03

:hug:

[SPKrazy]

13. well I hope you continue to do okay

[KitchenWitch]

6. I am glad you were able to find some support and some answers here.

:hug:

[Mike03]

11. Definitely, and thank you. NT

[lost-in-nj]

9. Hi Mike

Island Beach......
:)


next time you get here.... we will meet "down the shore"


:hug:

lost

[Mike03]

12. Lost in NJ,

Beautiful, beautiful picture.

Maybe more than anyone, you have extended your kindness to me. I can't even find the proper words to thank you for blessing me with your kind, generous and beautiful spirit. You are an amazing human being.

[Shine]

10. awwww...I doubt I said anything useful, but I'm wishing you and yours all the best

:hug:

[ThomCat]

14. I hope your loved one is doing well.

And you too. :hug:

DUers really are wonderful people, and many of us have survived so many bad experiences that collectively we have a lot of good advice to share.