I lost my Mom to pancreatic cancer when she was 48 years old. She lost her mother to the disease as well. Families like mine are the human cost of cuts to science and mRNA vaccine research.
You're absolutely right, we deserve better, and people are going to die because of RFK Jr.'s incompetence. We do need to speak out about these grifters heading government agencies. Thank you for writing this, and other, pieces.
I’m very sorry for the loss of your mom. Thank you for sharing what must have been incredibly difficult to articulate in such heartfelt detail. The loss of our mother especially at a younger age is one of life’s most devastating experiences. I lost mine to terminal cancer when she was 58 yo and my sister the exact same cancer passing at the same age of 58. I’m 66 now and witnessing the assault on our healthcare -as a retired nurse- this is beyond comprehension. I have such anger and frustration that for someone like me who was on top of all the medical issues prior to this year, I find myself so utterly overwhelmed and tapped out I can’t bring myself to watch the news, hear their sickening voices and know of their selfish beyond inept agendas. We deserve progress not a loss of 50 yrs of research.
You write beautifully. It reads effortlessly. Like poetry. This piece hit hard but I was so in sync with every word. From the bottom of my heart I send you a sisterhood hug and thank you, for your voice and all you do.
Thank you so much for your kind words Cathy, they genuinely brought a tear to my eye.
I’m so sorry that we both share this pain and rage, but I’m also glad we aren’t alone.
There are many wonderful people out there who will keep fighting for progress. I sincerely hope the damage this administration are doing is as short lived as possible so that future generations can be spared the pain and loss we went through.
Your mother was able to give you the amazing support that she did because she had been in your place. I lost my Mom, age 45, to ovarian cancer when I was 20. We never discussed the diagnosis as a family. Instead, we all pretended she was going to get better. Her death, 4 months after diagnosis, blew my family apart and we never recovered from the unresolved grief and loss. I write this with tears flowing down my face, in awe of your family's courage and your mother's wisdom. I will be buying a memory book to give to my daughters and granddaughters, to support and comfort them when I eventually die. Thanks so much for your writing.
And F**K that wizened brain-damaged grifter for destroying the best chances the world had to fight cancers and prevent devastating diseases. So many generations before us watched their children die horrible deaths that we can now prevent; it breaks my heart that their suffering will have been in vain as those diseases return. Measles, mumps, rubella, polio, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, chickenpox, and all the other vaccine-preventable diseases can have life-changing or life-ending impacts. Misinformed parents will kill, disable, or disfigure their own children and others as a result of the lies RFK Jr. is spreading. Heartbreaking and frightening.
I'm so sorry Elaine, and I'm glad that my story could help you in some small way. That's great that you're buying the memory books! I really can't recommend them enough. They provide so much comfort plus a unique opportunity to learn more about someone after they've passed.
I lost my dad to pancreatic cancer when he was 35 years old. I was 5 months from my 12th birthday. He was diagnosed in late October and passed in early February. I remember him going into the hospital around Christmas time and coming home in early January. He was so gaunt, his clothes hung on him. I have lived in fear of this disease ever since then. The fact that one misguided arrogant man can stop all research into potential ways to make this disease manageable makes me sick. We can only hope that when a more reasonable administration takes charge and this man is unceremoniously removed from his position that mRNA research will once again be funded.
I’m so sorry Steve. My sister was 14 and it was awful for her. That’s such a young age to lose a parent.
It’s incredible how quickly it can change someone. I remember when Patrick Swayze was diagnosed I found it very hard to watch him on screen because he got that “look” that I associated with my Mom.
I’m really hoping the research continues in spite of RFK Jr and people like you and I won’t have to live in fear of it anymore!
I admire you. Your story was poignant and heart felt. I know it is a testament to the bond you shared with your mum. Words are powerful and information must be truthful. I am so very sorry for the loss you have. Speaking your truth is powerful and meaningful. It resonates so much that it allows me the chance to embrace what always needs to be said...........the truth. You write this so exquisitely. Well done, I think you have an amazing gift and your words are powerful. May God Bless you and take good care. You have made your mum so proud.......
I am crying. For you. For those I've lost to cancer. For my chosen sister who has been battling breast cancer for two years and may have a secondary cancer. Forthee sweet 10yo in our community who battled cancer for 3 years and died before her 11th birthday.
I’m so sorry to hear that Lucinda. I’m sending you (and her!) all my love and healing vibes.
I linked to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network at the end, I definitely recommend checking them out if you haven’t already. They have excellent resources and support.
Thank you, that’s kind of you. She’s also not masking in hospital and refused my offer of a HEPA purifier so I’m also freaking out about that. My dad is my carer as well as hers.
I know so many people with cancer who aren’t masking. It absolutely breaks my heart. I wish healthcare workers would mask and lead by example as it would make it easier for patients.
From a retired Family Physician Down Under, I share your pain, frustration and anger that this deranged individual had been granted control over a health system he despises at all levels, just not the dysfunctional illness care component, and who hasn’t the skills, knowledge or expertise to manage himself or his family safely, let alone a nation! The whole world will suffer, many have already died from the loss of USAID too, and the removal of funding for global initiatives like GAVI will have repercussions at home as well as on those who would have been recipients of their programs.
For the sake of all those put at risk by the de-funding of mRNA research, I can only offer my supporting thoughts, and donations to my local research agencies. This work MUST continue. Please donate and advocate wherever and whenever you can.
It's so frustrating. As you pointing out, many have already died due to USAID cuts. Many more will die. Not to mention all the children who will end up disabled from vaccine preventable illnesses like measles, mumps and rubella.
He needs to be stopped, and I sincerely hope people step up and oust him soon.
As a nurse, mom and now, chronically ill patient, your story saddened and incensed me. I have watched the devastation of pancreatic cancer and I am so very sorry you had to experience that. I am equally irate that this NON-MEDICAL person is making these life-altering decisions for all of us. RFK Jr. has no medical degree, yet is calling the shots on clinical decisions that will affect us all. Thank you for speaking loud and clear.
Thank you for reading Jan, and for sharing in my rage. Pancreatic cancer is so cruel (and often painful) and as you said it's extra unfair that someone with absolutely no medical training is making these decisions. He will just push raw milk and tallow at people, and more lives will be lost.
All the kids who are going to die or become disabled break my heart. they didn't ask for this. They don't get a say. Their parents are succumbing to the grift at the expense of their kids lives and futures. It's infuriating.
One thing that is apparent from your writing is that your mother certainly instilled the fighter instinct in you and we know that you are going to continue fighting for just causes, few of which are as important as this one
Yes indeed. Though it’s important to note he had the type that has a better survival rate (which is rare). I think he refused treatment and pursued a more holistic approach if I recall correctly?
You're absolutely right, we deserve better, and people are going to die because of RFK Jr.'s incompetence. We do need to speak out about these grifters heading government agencies. Thank you for writing this, and other, pieces.
You’re welcome, and thank you for reading!
I’m very sorry for the loss of your mom. Thank you for sharing what must have been incredibly difficult to articulate in such heartfelt detail. The loss of our mother especially at a younger age is one of life’s most devastating experiences. I lost mine to terminal cancer when she was 58 yo and my sister the exact same cancer passing at the same age of 58. I’m 66 now and witnessing the assault on our healthcare -as a retired nurse- this is beyond comprehension. I have such anger and frustration that for someone like me who was on top of all the medical issues prior to this year, I find myself so utterly overwhelmed and tapped out I can’t bring myself to watch the news, hear their sickening voices and know of their selfish beyond inept agendas. We deserve progress not a loss of 50 yrs of research.
You write beautifully. It reads effortlessly. Like poetry. This piece hit hard but I was so in sync with every word. From the bottom of my heart I send you a sisterhood hug and thank you, for your voice and all you do.
Your mom would be and IS so very proud of you. 💕🤍
Thank you so much for your kind words Cathy, they genuinely brought a tear to my eye.
I’m so sorry that we both share this pain and rage, but I’m also glad we aren’t alone.
There are many wonderful people out there who will keep fighting for progress. I sincerely hope the damage this administration are doing is as short lived as possible so that future generations can be spared the pain and loss we went through.
Your mother was able to give you the amazing support that she did because she had been in your place. I lost my Mom, age 45, to ovarian cancer when I was 20. We never discussed the diagnosis as a family. Instead, we all pretended she was going to get better. Her death, 4 months after diagnosis, blew my family apart and we never recovered from the unresolved grief and loss. I write this with tears flowing down my face, in awe of your family's courage and your mother's wisdom. I will be buying a memory book to give to my daughters and granddaughters, to support and comfort them when I eventually die. Thanks so much for your writing.
And F**K that wizened brain-damaged grifter for destroying the best chances the world had to fight cancers and prevent devastating diseases. So many generations before us watched their children die horrible deaths that we can now prevent; it breaks my heart that their suffering will have been in vain as those diseases return. Measles, mumps, rubella, polio, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, chickenpox, and all the other vaccine-preventable diseases can have life-changing or life-ending impacts. Misinformed parents will kill, disable, or disfigure their own children and others as a result of the lies RFK Jr. is spreading. Heartbreaking and frightening.
I'm so sorry Elaine, and I'm glad that my story could help you in some small way. That's great that you're buying the memory books! I really can't recommend them enough. They provide so much comfort plus a unique opportunity to learn more about someone after they've passed.
I lost my dad to pancreatic cancer when he was 35 years old. I was 5 months from my 12th birthday. He was diagnosed in late October and passed in early February. I remember him going into the hospital around Christmas time and coming home in early January. He was so gaunt, his clothes hung on him. I have lived in fear of this disease ever since then. The fact that one misguided arrogant man can stop all research into potential ways to make this disease manageable makes me sick. We can only hope that when a more reasonable administration takes charge and this man is unceremoniously removed from his position that mRNA research will once again be funded.
I’m so sorry Steve. My sister was 14 and it was awful for her. That’s such a young age to lose a parent.
It’s incredible how quickly it can change someone. I remember when Patrick Swayze was diagnosed I found it very hard to watch him on screen because he got that “look” that I associated with my Mom.
I’m really hoping the research continues in spite of RFK Jr and people like you and I won’t have to live in fear of it anymore!
I admire you. Your story was poignant and heart felt. I know it is a testament to the bond you shared with your mum. Words are powerful and information must be truthful. I am so very sorry for the loss you have. Speaking your truth is powerful and meaningful. It resonates so much that it allows me the chance to embrace what always needs to be said...........the truth. You write this so exquisitely. Well done, I think you have an amazing gift and your words are powerful. May God Bless you and take good care. You have made your mum so proud.......
Thank you very much for reading and for your kind words.
Hope you are keeping well.........
stay safe, stay well, stay blessed.......
I am crying. For you. For those I've lost to cancer. For my chosen sister who has been battling breast cancer for two years and may have a secondary cancer. Forthee sweet 10yo in our community who battled cancer for 3 years and died before her 11th birthday.
I am so fxcking angry and heartbroken.
Me too. So heartbroken. It impacts so many people's lives and I hate that we're going backwards after making so much progress.
That was a tough read. My stepmum was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer yesterday. I wish the vaccine was closer.
I’m so sorry to hear that Lucinda. I’m sending you (and her!) all my love and healing vibes.
I linked to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network at the end, I definitely recommend checking them out if you haven’t already. They have excellent resources and support.
Thank you, that’s kind of you. She’s also not masking in hospital and refused my offer of a HEPA purifier so I’m also freaking out about that. My dad is my carer as well as hers.
I’ll check out those resources, thanks xx
I know so many people with cancer who aren’t masking. It absolutely breaks my heart. I wish healthcare workers would mask and lead by example as it would make it easier for patients.
From a retired Family Physician Down Under, I share your pain, frustration and anger that this deranged individual had been granted control over a health system he despises at all levels, just not the dysfunctional illness care component, and who hasn’t the skills, knowledge or expertise to manage himself or his family safely, let alone a nation! The whole world will suffer, many have already died from the loss of USAID too, and the removal of funding for global initiatives like GAVI will have repercussions at home as well as on those who would have been recipients of their programs.
For the sake of all those put at risk by the de-funding of mRNA research, I can only offer my supporting thoughts, and donations to my local research agencies. This work MUST continue. Please donate and advocate wherever and whenever you can.
It's so frustrating. As you pointing out, many have already died due to USAID cuts. Many more will die. Not to mention all the children who will end up disabled from vaccine preventable illnesses like measles, mumps and rubella.
He needs to be stopped, and I sincerely hope people step up and oust him soon.
I’m so sorry to read about your devastating loss, thank you for sharing this part of your story and the important message it contains. 🙏
Thank you so much Jane! Mom always encouraged me to be a writer, so I'm glad to be able to honour her memory by sharing her/our story!
She’d be very proud!
As a nurse, mom and now, chronically ill patient, your story saddened and incensed me. I have watched the devastation of pancreatic cancer and I am so very sorry you had to experience that. I am equally irate that this NON-MEDICAL person is making these life-altering decisions for all of us. RFK Jr. has no medical degree, yet is calling the shots on clinical decisions that will affect us all. Thank you for speaking loud and clear.
Thank you for reading Jan, and for sharing in my rage. Pancreatic cancer is so cruel (and often painful) and as you said it's extra unfair that someone with absolutely no medical training is making these decisions. He will just push raw milk and tallow at people, and more lives will be lost.
Thank you for sharing so openly and the work you do to spread knowledge and advice to others. I'm sure your mother would be very proud.
Thank you for saying (and for reading!)
We all know that T**** hates"experts".He has well proven it by appointing the worst crackpots money can buy.
Meanwhile,people will needlessly become disabled and many will die,so the morbidly wealthy can have their desired Utopia.
I am so thoroughly sick and tired of these idiots.
All the kids who are going to die or become disabled break my heart. they didn't ask for this. They don't get a say. Their parents are succumbing to the grift at the expense of their kids lives and futures. It's infuriating.
So sorry for your loss my mother died from several cancers that were caught rather late and not diagnosed well
I’m so sorry for your loss as well Christopher. And that her cancers were found too late.
https://www.uclahealth.org/news/release/shelf-cancer-vaccine-elicits-strong-immune-response-patients
That was very poignant and moving
One thing that is apparent from your writing is that your mother certainly instilled the fighter instinct in you and we know that you are going to continue fighting for just causes, few of which are as important as this one
As always, Bob
She definitely did! She always said I would be someone who would make noise in the world… and that’s what I’m trying to do!
Steve Jobs Apple’s founder died of it as well.
Yes indeed. Though it’s important to note he had the type that has a better survival rate (which is rare). I think he refused treatment and pursued a more holistic approach if I recall correctly?
Exactly right