AARP Eye Center
The author recommends not sepending time with doctors, She says " it is OK to die" ( tell that to a young mother or the grand mother of a first grandson) that doctors are not scientists and work out of memory saying "They have no idea what went into actual science". She is 77 years old and mentioned "there is a joy in realizing you are old enough to die", fine with me.
As a physcian admitted to the US as an Alien of Extraordinary Abilty" and having spent most of my proffesional life in Oncology research I strorngly disagree with MsEhrenreich. I have seen too many patients that could have been saved or had a much better quality of life had they visited the doctor earlier in the process and had their life saving tests done. She may ignore the science behind treatments.
The editorial board of the AARP Bulletin has a responsability with ALL members. Publishing this article is diserving and missleading and may Jeopardize lives and the wellbeing of others
Dr. Francisco Rozo MD
Hello Dr. Rozo,
I'm guessing you've dedicated your life to helping people survive cancer as long as possible, and that you also know when chemo or other intervention is just going to make the patient sicker and maybe prolong the inevitable and sometimes hasten it (that is, death). In my opinion, I think Ms Ehrenreich is asking for moderation, and decades of compassionate hospice services are witness to that wisdom. I don't think what she says here (https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2018/healthy-aging-wellness-death.html) is dangerous. It's one voice among many. You've added your voice. All to the good.
Carry on.
Jane
(former hospice social worker and 15 year oncology social worker)
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