Seeking an alternative

M had passed my contact to the husband of a patient, with advanced mets breast cancer, when he asked about alternative treatment.

Last night, the husband's sister called. After she introduced herself, she asked, 'what do you want my sister-in-law to do', or something to that effect. I didn't know what she was expecting, and told her that it was not up to me to tell her what to do, and the most I could do was share my experience with her, but the decision is up to them.

During the course of our conversation, she realised that I was not the one providing the ayurvedic treatment, but actually one of those receiving it. This explained her opening question. I was not surprised, when messages got passed on, especially in a situation like theirs, sometimes the meanings become distorted.

This patient's cancer had advanced to a stage where the doctors ruled out surgery as not possible now. She was supposed to start chemo but they are still waiting for her condition (from blood tests results) to improve before they proceed. Meanwhile she is in a lot of pain and the doctors are not optimistic. She has given up the fight and has to be persuaded to eat. Her husband and daughter are not giving up and wanted a second or alternative opinion.

I can relate to their situation. For the patient, when the docs have given up, it will take a lot of courage and determination to stay positive and put up a good fight while enduring the pain. This lady, like some others would prefer to let go and hope that it will be all over soon. Whereas, the family members would be trying their utmost looking for alternatives or getting confirmation before they are ready to admit defeat.

Although I have not said so, I am hoping to see them there when I go for my medicine on Friday, and I am also hoping that it will not be too late for the ayurvedic master to do something for her.