I guess this is a lesson in not giving up.........

They say that there are new medical protocols on the horizon and most of the time, I would say "not in my lifetime though". The following is the first paragraph of an artical in the Wall Street Journal on Aug 10, 2005:

"Boston Scientific Corp. received expedited approval from the Food and Drug Administration to sell a stroke treatment that employs a stent to open up clogged arteries in the brain."

Right now, it is only to be used in people who have already had one stroke. It has also been submitted to Medicare to provide the necessary hospitalization. I have a cousin in NJ, Frank, who is always sending me articles and I was really stunned with this one. According to Frank, I have to: 1) Show it to my dr, 2) contact the company, 3) contact the FDA, 4) contact my congressman and 5) keep looking.

Well, I had to do 3 of those items fighting for my disability, 1, 2, and 4. I guess I need to get geared up for another fight. It would seem to make a lot of $$ sense if you could prevent the stroke in the first place.

I have always said that when my b/c comes out of remission, I am going to buy the largest chocolate cake and a carton of cigarettes. I've been thinking about it but I may have to forget that for a while.

We've spoken a lot about not giving up and here is just another reason why we cannot.

Hugs, Jo-Ann

Jo-Ann: What fantastic news! Just like we talked about. You can never give up as there are new treatments being announced daily. So, forget the chocolate cake and the carton of cigs for right now. Get on the phone and start calling and emailing all of those individuals. If you need help w/ Washington, let me know.

Lots of love...Deb

Jo-Ann,

There must be something we can do for you, too! I'd be happy to do anything at all to help! Please just ask, and I'll do all that I can ! With love and hugs,

Laure'

Jo-Ann, you are truly one tough "Survivor"! If anyone deserves that pink ribbon, you do sweetie. Love you, Gail