Different chemo options
Tyranny of Experts – Part Two
In yesterday’s e-Alert (“Heart of Texas” 10/17/05) I told you about an article written by Bernadine Healy, M.D. for U.S. News and World Report. Dr. Healy warns about “I am God” physicians in the context of Katie Wernecke’s clash with doctors and Texas Child Protection Services over her treatment for Hodgkin’s disease.
Dr. Healy beautifully illustrates Katie’s dilemma with a comparison to another famous Texan who underwent cancer treatment.
When Lance Armstrong was diagnosed with testicular cancer his first oncologist prescribed a type of chemo that would have produced a harshly negative impact on his lungs. He was told his bike-racing career would be over.
At that point, Armstrong had not yet won his first Tour de France. But knowing what we now know about his character it’s no surprise that he decided to pass on that first chemo formula.
Armstrong eventually found an oncologist who listened to his needs, offered a different chemo option and addressed his brain cancer with surgery instead of radiation. And the rest is bicycling history.
Dr. Healy points out that if Armstrong had been forced by the state to accept the “standard care” prescribed by the first doctor, who knows who might have won the last few Tours de France.
Sources:
“The Tyranny of Experts” Bernadine Healy, M.D., U.S. News and World Report, 6/27/05, usnews.com
