#palliative care journey

[glcarissa]

I haven't posted about my art in a while due to my major health issues.

From March 12, 2023, when I first located the lump in my left breast, to the present, it has been heart wrenching and challenging. I no longer have my father or mother, both have sadly passed away, to help me through this.

And I don't want to be a burden on my children.

My siblings ... have always been and continues to be distance ... which is the saddest part of going through any terminal illness alone. But sometimes, you have to walk away from what hurt you and you can't go back [no matter how much it breaks your heart ... God knows your journey.].

After being in remission for ovarian cancer from 2018 until 2023, I was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer with numerous bone metastasis.

The illness and treatment have drastically impacted my physical and mental health to the point where I have not been fully active. It has taken a toll on me.

Everything has changed. I am sad to admit, also, that many people have also changed. This is a devastating and horrible disease that no one should have to journey alone. But 'it is what it is' and I must keep fighting, whether with support or on my own.

I will always have God.

Cancer takes away everything. Each day is a battle, but this is my journey and forward I must go.

Stay safe. Be kind. Be humble. Be human.

Gloria C Swain [May 23, 1956 - ]

[youthchronical]

'My life has come to an end': TikTok star Bella Bradford announces her death in pre-recorded video - Times of India

Bella Bradford (Picture credit: X) TikTok influencer Bella Bradford announced her own death in a pre-recorded video shared on her account on October 31, weeks after her passing on October 15. Known for her “Get Ready with Me” videos, the 24-year-old had been courageously documenting her journey with a rare cancer diagnosis.In the 11-minute farewell clip, Bradford openly spoke to her followers,…

[universalchaplain]

Religious Groups’ Views on End-of-Life Issues | Pew Research Center

For reference

[aaknopf]

The letters of the writer and groundbreaking neurological investigator Oliver Sacks–now collected in a volume that displays on every page his boundless curiosity and love of the human animal in its myriad ways of perceiving the world–include several to the poet W. H. Auden, among other literary lights. We unfortunately have no record of the Coleridge quote Sacks refers to in this missive to Auden of August 18, 1971, but the line he mentions from the German Romantic poet Novalis was surely a favorite aphorism of Oliver’s: “Every disease is a musical problem; its care a musical solution.” We also share below the typescript of Auden’s poem “Anthem,” which the poet had enclosed in his foregoing letter to Sacks, written on August 2, where he ended by saying: “Overleaf a little poem about the Cosmos. Yours ever, Wystan.”

Letter to W. H. AudenAugust 18,1971 [37 Mapesbury Rd., London]

Dear Wystan,

Your letter was forwarded to me a few days ago, and it (or your poem, or you) was the best of palliatives. Does there come a point (if one is very lucky, or has the right gifts, or grace, or works at it) when style, feeling, content, judgement all flow together and assume the right form? Your “Anthem” seems instinctively and effortlessly lyrical, and absolutely natural, like an organic growth; and yet obviously has the most careful and sophisticated and exquisite choice of words—and no feeling of any “joins” anywhere, of artifice, of manipulation. Marvellous. I will treasure it.      Yes, I thought the Coleridge quote was a real find, and so to the point. And I agree (I feel) absolutely with the Novalis one. In some sense, I think, my medical sense is a musical one. I diagnose by the feeling of discordancy, or of some peculiarity of harmony. And it’s immediate, total, and gestalt. My sleeping-sickness patients have innumerable types of strange “crises,” immensely complex, absolutely specific, yet completely indescribable. I recognize them all now as I recognize a bar of Brahms or Mahler. And so do the patients. Such strange physiological harmonies—I hope I can find some way to describe these, because they are unique states, at the edges of being, beyond imaginable being, beneath comprehension, and when the last of the sleeping-sickness patients die (they are very old now) no memory will be left of their extraordinary states. Writing seems more of a struggle now—maybe I’m trying something harder—I find meanings go out of focus, or there is some sort of “slippage” between word and meaning, and the phrase which seemed right, yesterday, is dead today. [. . .] And medical jargon is so awful. It conveys no real picture, no impression whatever, of what—say—it feels like to be Parkinsonian. And yet it’s an absolutely specific, and intolerable feeling. A feeling of confinement, but of an inner constraint and confinement and cramp and crushedness, which is closely analogous to depression (although it is not emotional as such), and, of course, is very depressing. And a painful inner conflict—one patient called it the push-and-pull, another the goad-and-halter. It’s a most hateful condition, although it has a sort of elegant formal structure. But no book that I know of brings home that Parkinsonism feels like this—they just reduce it to an unevocative listing of symptoms. I hope Osbert Sitwell didn’t have it too badly.       I’ve been reading some Goethe (for the first time, really) in the last week or two. Starting with his Italian Journey—thank God I did start with that, or I might not have got any further. And then the Pelican Faust—maybe it’s the same with any translation. I must learn German. And Mann’s fabulous essay on Goethe and Tolstoy. And Elective Affinities. And that great, meandering, affectionate Lewes biography. There is one point (I think in his chapter on Goethe’s philanthropy) where Lewes says that he could “eat Goethe for love”—and I think these are beginning to be my sentiments too.       I hope I can join Orlan on a lightning visit to Vienna. There is nothing I would like more, but I am awfully fretted with my current book, and may not be at liberty (or feel myself at liberty) until I have finished it. I would love to see you in your own Kirchstetten, but if I cannot come I will surely see you in New York a few weeks later. 

Yours ever, [Oliver]

More on this book and author:

Learn more about Letters by Oliver Sacks.

Read “Anthem” and more of W. H. Auden’s poems in Collected Poems. 

Browse other books by Oliver Sacks and follow the Oliver Sacks Foundation on Instagram @oliversacksfdn.

Visit our Tumblr to peruse poems, audio recordings, and broadsides in the Knopf poem-a-day series.

To share the poem-a-day experience with friends, pass along this link.

[nikonladyz4]

Prayers and BTS Friend’s Support Requested

To my followers and fellow BTS lovers, I have been battling a very rare blood cancer called Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia for almost 10 years. Last year the immunotherapy drug I had been on for 6 years caused ventricular tachycardia of the heart which caused me to immediately stop therapy. This news was three days after attending Suga/Agust D’s concert in Chicago. What a downer to come home from that amazing, phenomenal concert.

I resumed a 2nd generation drug 3 months later which caused additional heart issues and had to reduce the dosage and subsequently stop that therapy in November. There were only two options left, one being a regiment of chemotherapy that would put me in palliative care, or the other option being an autologous stem cell transplant. This option could potentially add several more years of life in partial/full remission. Unfortunately the cancer will come back and I will get that palliative final round of chemo.

I chose the stem cell option and started the process 3 months ago with an oral chemo drug to kill cancer cells. I had a high dose of infusion chemo this past Friday and started daily injections on Sunday to create new stem cells in my bone marrow that will be moved to my blood stream for harvesting in two weeks. It will take up to 4 days to harvest the stem cells and then frozen until transplant day.

I will then go into the hospital for extreme chemotherapy to kill off my immune system (red and white blood cells and platelets) for a medical “rebirth” where my harvested stem cells will be transplanted back into my bloodstream for engraphment into my bone marrow.

So again, I am just telling my BTS family and friends while asking for your prayers and well wishes as I complete this new medical journey so that I can see my beloved BTS boys in concert next year.

The good news is my initial prognosis was for 5-10 years. I was diagnosed at 51 and I will be 61 on Saturday, one day after our beloved Jimin drops his new album of love songs! YES YES YES

Posted: 7/15/24

[thefandomlesbian]

In healthcare, we learn a saying: "If you treat a disease, sometimes you'll win, sometimes you'll lose. If you treat a person, you'll win every time, no matter the outcome."

I can't help but extrapolate this to House and Wilson. House who has studied every infectious and genetic disease under the sun who fights and fights and fights for life, who pretends he doesn't care about his patients, who even says, "I don't get paid to treat people, I get paid to treat diseases, the fact that people have to be involved is a downfall," who admits he takes every loss personally and feels it's his fault because he failed. If he had been faster, they would have lived. If he had figured it out sooner. House who believes he deserves misery because of this, who thinks chronic pain makes him a better doctor because if he's less pliable as a person he's more likely to find The Answer when The Answer is all that matters.

On the other hand, you have Wilson. A practiced oncologist, someone who has long ago learned it is impossible to beat every disease but it is possible to bond with every patient, to the point that he advises other doctors on techniques to make bonds with their own children, because the point of medicine is in the humanity. Wilson who fights for life but also fights for comfortable death, to whom palliative medicine is no stranger. He takes hits, of course, and the losses hurt, but he also finds comfort in the journey from one space to another. He acknowledges that he believes in the In Between from life to death and though it isn't often expressed (particularly to House, as this elicits too many volatile reactions), he thinks something happens after the meatsack stops working and the chemical computer in the brain shuts off. He believes people are something more than neurons.

And their roles are foils of one another throughout the series. This is always clear in their medicinal acts. House fighting for life, searching for answers, and Wilson rolling joints, rigging PCA pumps, committing MAID illegally.

They only swap roles for each other in the finale.

In the final act of their friendship, Wilson knows he is going to die. He knows his options are shorter and painless or longer and painful. He wants painless. But House needs him. "I don't think that's a bad thing anymore," he says. He is ready to go for the long haul. He knows it isn't a cure, that he'll still die, but sometimes love is worth the pain, and more hours with House (even in agony) will be worth the pain. He's going to fight, knowing he'll lose, knowing it's pointless except to say that he spent another few months with his best friend confined to a hospital and a clean room.

And in this final act of their friendship, House knows Wilson is going to die, has spent days pleading with him just to keep fighting for more time, you could make it another two years instead of five months. Until Wilson is ready to start chemo. "You're the only one I listen to. You're smarter than me." House gives Wilson what he wants: painless and quick, the final five months spent together. House rages against the terminal acts of dying bodies all the time, but he can destroy that instinct to love Wilson better. He can make Wilson comfortable until the very end. He can treat the person, not the disease, just this once.

And that's what medicine is all about.

[merilaurecus]

Zevlor reaction to finding out Tav became a paladin too on her journey

This is specific piece for my Tav, Ineth, who's about to become Ancients Pally soon.

Including her best friend's, M'eril (Ancients Pally too) reaction because he was ✨right there✨ to see her swearing an Oath 🔰

Also, in this timeline Zevlor actually got tadpoled (he got enthralled, guarded Moonrise and later got tadpoled when his free will began to show up)

Zevlor

When Ineth rescued him from the pod he was scarcely in the state to notice what she was doing in the fray of the battle. He only knew who he has to fight.

Or did he?

He focuses so hard on disobeying the voice in his head who told him to slay people who once saved both him and the refugees at the Grove.

Ilmater's ashes. The others!

It made him distracted just enough to get scratched by two intellect devourers and stunned by a mind flayer. Laying there he awaited well-deserved death. As a traitor he was.

But that didn't happen. Instead the sounds of the fighting stopped and he saw her. Her blue eyes, short, black hair and beautiful but worried face.

- Zevlor? Zevlor! - she yelled, reaching his face and looking over his wounds.

They were deep, but not fatal.

But what happened after could only happen in his wildest dreams.

Could it be?

She raised her hand, two fingers pointing at the sky, healing magic glowing on her hand.

Gods above, he thought.

She was using her Oath powers to save him.

But he only remembered her being a ranger, not a paladin. Good with bow and few spells, though he was fairly surprised to see her using Searing Smite at the Grove's gate. She must've picked it up somewhere on the road.

As for the Oath, he couldn't tell. But he could sense it flowing through her. A bit different than the Oath he broke, filled with nature's powers...

Ancients.

She served Ancients now.

When she helped him sit up, she kneeled in front of him.

- Are you all right? - she put a hand on his shoulder. If not the exhaustion his tail would have twitched. Now it was not moving an inch.

- I'm... I'm good. Thank you. But, the others, tell me they've survived.

- Not all of them. But the rest found the refuge at the Last Light Inn. And some we rescued from the Moonrise prison. What the hells happened out there though? - her voice changed from soft to a bit sharp, but he could still hear care in it.

- You probably heard I froze, abandoned them. And they were right. I heard Her, the Absolute, telling me I'd be a paladin again. I so longed to have God's purpose I gave in. I only found out what it means when my free will was taken away from me and when it began to show again, they... put me in here and planted a parasite in my head. But now... the voice is gone. How?

- Glad you're in your right mind then - she still looked at him suspiciously, seeking wounds she didn't notice focusing on the larger damage - as to the lack of voice... this little trinket could have helped - a cleric Ineth travelled with showed up some strange-looking box. It looked as alien as mind flayers so he took her word for it.

- I should be going. Refugees probably won't look me in the eye after I abandoned them...

- Stop - this time she put both her hands on his shoulders as he stood up. If the situation was different he'd adore the size difference between them, Ineth was short and petite woman, and he was on the taller side of a tiefling. Top of her head barely reached his arms. But now he could only listen to her words - Go to my camp. You can't reunite with your people just yet but you should go with me. We're seeking freedom from the parasite and now it seems you do too. Join me. Please - all of sudden she put her small hands into his, her eyes practically beginning for him to join her.

How could possibly she want my companion? I betrayed her, the other tieflings...

- You didn't betray anyone. Absolute made you do it. Don't blame your... well, that's the thing you've got to get used to. The occasional exchange of thoughts I mean. But none of us have changed into a mind flayer yet, so I think we're on a good way - she sparked a soft smile, and he could see a faint glow in her eyes. A golden glow he sometimes saw in paladin's eyes when they let a bit of their Oath into the other person. He felt the warmth and sympathy.

He was silent for a moment, and then spoke:

- Very well, Ineth. I will take as many people as I can out of here and after that I'll join you in your camp - without a word she gave him a map with camp's location pointed - but... I need to know. Have you... become...

- A paladin? Yeah, she did - M'eril cut the question short - Haven't told me either.

- Farewell. And good luck - he spoke, before her party ventured to face Myrkul's Chosen.

- If only you didn't sneak after me - she joked and they both let out a small chuckle - All right. Get people to safety, get to my camp, we've got some Ketheric business downstairs. If we survive, I'll see you there - Ineth gave him a faint smile, the one given when you know this might be the last you see of them. But she had to survive.

M'eril

He prayed to Tymora for Ineth's luck in the battle to come.

He wanted to see her again.

DICTIONARY:

Damia: an elven term of endearment, used towards children. M'eril uses it towards his close friends.

Sha'Quessir - elf-friend (yes, Ineth uses it addressing M'eril despite him being half-elf)

He wasn't the best in stealth, but seeing his best friend going somewhere in a sneaky fashion was suspicious. Perhaps she needed some time alone, she was just outed by Ethel for being not of this word. He was still wrapping his head around it. Why haven't she told him right away? He was still quite disappointed, even if they talked about it.

Ineth, or Maria how she was really called back in her own world, was from somewhere so far and managed to survive in Faerûn. For a solid year without him and five with him as her best friend. He was shocked but at the same second he was proud.

From what he overheard her world did not even have magic. Yet somehow she learned to use it. And by the gods she was physically strong, not strong enough to carry his warhammer, despite her best efforts, but strong enough to try him at arm wrestling. She lost, obviously, given she was way smaller and he was fair by giving her his best, yet she still held him for longer than he thought she will. It was a pint for her that night.

But now, something was different, she wasn't sneaking out to hunt, she didn't even look sad or anything. She looked...

Sure.

Sure about what she's about to do.

Still bearing wounds from the fight with Ethel she ventured deep into the forest.

And M'eril followed like a silent guardian he was now. Trying his best not to get his head into the lower branches of the trees and not to make noise.

What are you up to, damia?

He only hoped she haven't heard his thoughts. The tadpoles were damn capricious.

He found a bush to crouch behind, as he looked at her.

Ineth looked around, as if she was suddenly unsure about what she's doing.

- Okay, how does one do that? - she said to herself.

His head was filled with curiosity.

And then shock, as she kneeled.

His heart skipped a beat when she raised two fingers of her left hand into the sky and the other landed on her heart.

- Kindle the light. Shelter the light. Be the light. Preserve your own light. These are the ideals I'm willing to uphold, if Ancients wish me to do so - he suddenly felt a lump in his throat - I swear to try and keep the balance, fight for what's good in this world and cut out the wickedness that tries to kill the light in every living thing. So I have sworn, so it will be done.

If not for the hand on his mouth she'd hear him sob. His little damia, his best friend, a ranger of great courage and bravery decided to take the same path as him.

He saw the green and yellow light flow to her as Ancients heard her Oath and answered. She reached her hand up, her face displaying happiness and confidence.

And I'll be your teacher. That much I swear to you and the Ancients.

*some time later*

Getting a good beating in the Underdark wasn't the hardest thing to do but M'eril was still surprised he got hit so hard. He'd usually take the good beating and be fine afterwards. But now he was barely holding it together.

Well, minotaurs didn't know mercy.

- M'eril! - Ineth basically landed on top of him, and if it was a different situation he bet Gale would be jealous by now.

- I'm... well, almost fine - he smiled weakly.

- Uhm... Okay. Let's see...- she paused, unsure if to say it out loud - well, there's one more thing you don't know, but let me first heal you so we can live until then - she raised her hand with two fingers up.

Oath charge, he thought. He recognised the warmth and the sensation it brought.

- I'm... I'm so sorry I haven't told you befo-

- I knew for a while - he ruffled her hair when they both got up and then closed her in his arms.

Ineth's eyes widened.

- How?!

- Let's say this once I didn't fail to perceive the change in your behaviour - he chuckled.

- You... followed me? - she looked up him in the eyes when he let her go.

- Maybe...

- Sha'Quessir, you sometimes don't know privacy, do you? - she nudged him with elbow lightly, aware of the closing wounds.

- Curiosity had to be satisfied - that was met with Gale's laughter. These two were very close ever since the tiefling party. She wished she had Zevlor near too, but he had other duty to fulfil.

- Can't say I wouldn't have done the same! - the wizard couldn't leave the matter unadressed.

- And fail terribly at sneaking? Hardly - Astarion had to leave his opinion too.

- Okay, let's go. The Underdark is quite big and I kind of wanna see the sun again - Ineth ordered the team and they marched forth into the unknown depths of the underground world.

- Aye. I hate being underground, reminds me of the graves - Vespi, the group's sorceress spoke quietly. She was the last addition to the group and by far the youngest, but she was really good at spellcasting. Saved Ineth on more than one occasion and fortunately enough she had some opportunities to return the favour.

- Agreed. The less time we spend here, the better - Ineth could sense Vespi's anxiety even without a tadpole.

[thessalian]

This article hurts me for a lot of reasons and in a lot of ways.

The first and foremost of these is the number of friends I have in the US. What happens to them if the worst happens? They go through this? I cannot fucking stand the thought.

Which honestly brings me to the second reason: I know. I know how much delays can mean the difference between life and death. I've been through patients' healthcare journeys in terms of cancer from every conceivable angle. From initial diagnosis (diagnostic imaging and a couple of specialist departments taking a first macroscopic look at an issue) to specific diagnosis (what I'm currently doing - "let's put this tissue under a microscope to see what the cells are doing") to treatment - curative and palliative. I've seen it, and I've helped move patients through it. I've been the one trying to find them the earliest possible appointment. I've been the one flagging up the urgent cases. I've been the one making sure doctors sign off patients' treatment. And that has not always been easy.

The first example is my interview story - the one I always tell when a potential employer asks me for an example of having gone above and beyond. We had a registrar who was going into research and saw no real urgency with patient care. Wouldn't carry a pager, didn't clear the messages off his voicemail so his voicemail box was full, and I once had to physically track him down with the patient file and chemotherapy prescription letter that he'd spent weeks avoiding, because the patient in question only had a few months to live with the recommended palliative treatment and time was running out. That patient's "few months" turned into something like two weeks, even when I got the chemotherapy booked, because that jackass didn't put his signature on one damn document.

Additionally, awhile back I worked in a private clinic which did what was then a fairly new treatment for brain tumours - something called gamma knife, which was a sort of radiotherapy that focused multiple beams of radiation that on their own would not damage tissue onto a single point - the tumour - with the combined beams destroying the malignant cells. This treatment was too new to be on the NHS, but NHS oncologists would send some patients to us for this treatment - assuming the NHS finance bods approved it. But much like with US health insurers, the NHS finance bods would often deny the patient treatment because they didn't want to pay the private practice for it, despite it being something that would literally save their lives. They had this whole criteria about things like, "Would they have sufficient improvement of quality of life for long enough to make this worth our money?" and, worst of all, "Are they strong enough to survive a different, more harmful, but overall cheaper treatment?" - even if that treatment would not be as effective. We appealed everything, obviously, and thankfully most of those appeals got the patient their approval, but that's time someone with a fucking brain tumour cannot afford. Not to mention ... do you know what it feels like to look at a file on an eighteen-year-old girl with a brain tumour and see a NHS letter effectively saying, "She's young, she's strong, she can survive chemotherapy; we'd prefer stick with that even if it'll mean poisoning her regularly for less effect than the treatment we're trying to deny"?

Finally ... this is why I do what I do. Why I work so hard. Why I was never comfortable the few times I worked in the private sector on non-healthcare stuff. I can't do much from the position I hold, but by the gods, I can make sure the paperwork gets to the right people in a timely manner. Shaving even a day or two off someone's journey to treatment could mean everything. And from that position? The US healthcare system sickens me in ways I cannot explain because there aren't the words. Because I know how many times the answer to the question "Would he have lived?" is "yes". I cannot stand the thought that these assholes are willing to let that many people suffer and / or die for their own profit margins.

[thinkabled]

Final Year Exams, STEP 1, STEP 2 & Research Internship done in 6 months✅

My Story:

I decided to embark USMLE journey last November, got ECFMG applied and started UW for Step 1 late December 2023. I continued Step 1 prep for 2 weeks and then took a break for my university exams. In the beginning of February, I got a bizzare idea of prepping for Step 2 thanks to reddit and Free 120 of STEP 2.

So, I took UW STEP 2 in Feb. Everyday for a month, I did 2 blocks of STEP 1 & 1 block of STEP 2 system-wise. I had to stop for a month in March due to university exams. I jumped back on STEP 1 & 2 immediately after exams, this time, doing 2 blocks of STEP 2 and 1 block of STEP 1.

For STEP 1, I relied only on UW and First Aid. No NBMEs. No other resources. For STEP 2, I used UW and Inner Circle notes. No anki even though Tzancki deck was instilled on the notes.

By end of April, I was done with 90% UW STEP 1 and 60% STEP 2 UW. I sat 15 days dedicated for STEP 1 and gave exam on May and got the PASS. Took a vacation for 2 weeks and then returned back to STEP 2 prep.

I did UW upto 95%, shifted to CMS forms, did 2 each for main subjects and started NBMES. NBMES were all in 250s range except for 13 and 14 which hit 260s. I used to work full time as a research intern during June and do 80-160 questions a day. I also did a review of Inner Circle notes once during the whole month.

Dedicated:

In the month of July, I sat 3 weeks dedicated where I did AMBOSS High Yield qbank and articles. In the final weeks, I went through NBMEs once again, and reviewed the notes.

I also did AMBOSS HY 2nd pass. Did ethics screening vaccination quality and biostats from Amboss.

As for DIP, I listened to high yield stuff but only reviewed the Antibiotics and Palliative podcast in the end.

Day before Test:

Went through all NBME diagrams, did AMBOSS Ethics and Quality, quickly read through ethics articles, did Free 120 two days before the exam.

Test Day:

I was quite relaxed and had my breakfast. The exam felt fairly straight. I took breaks after every 2-3 blocks. Drank water during each break and took a toilet break. Thats all. I finished most blocks with 10-15 minutes to spare and did a 2nd pass of all the questions.

ACTUAL SCORE: 269

Overall, after solving 12k questions, I am happy to complete my fourth year exams, STEP 1 and STEP 2 together in a span of 6 months while being a student and full time research intern.

I am happy to give back to this community and would love to support and finance my further journey with paid mentorships for STEP 1 and STEP 2. If interested, check out here: https://lnkd.in/gwMDWR_9

My Learning Resources: https://lnkd.in/grGsSQnt

My YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gMcGWiUe

My Newsletter: thinkabled.com/cerebrate

Take care.

#usmle #img #step1 #step2 #match2025 #usmleimg #neurology #imresident #matchcycle #nrmp #usce #research

[virtualcatwinner]

Best Cancer Specialist in Delhi NCR

Introduction to Cancer Care in Delhi NCR

Cancer is a complex disease that requires specialized treatment, and Delhi NCR has emerged as a leading destination for advanced cancer care. Among the numerous oncologists in the region, Dr. Gopal Sharma is recognized as one of the best cancer specialists in Delhi NCR. His dedication to providing exceptional care, combined with his expertise in the latest cancer treatments, makes him a trusted name for patients seeking world-class cancer care.

About Dr. Gopal Sharma

Dr. Gopal Sharma is a renowned cancer specialist with years of experience in diagnosing and treating various types of cancer. He holds esteemed qualifications in oncology and has trained at some of the most prestigious medical institutions. Throughout his career, Dr. Sharma has consistently demonstrated his ability to treat even the most challenging cases with a patient-centric approach.

Dr. Sharma’s expertise extends across a broad range of cancers, including breast cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and gynecological cancers. His compassionate care and thorough understanding of oncology have earned him the trust and respect of patients and peers alike.

Why Choose Dr. Gopal Sharma as Your Cancer Specialist?

When it comes to cancer treatment, selecting the right oncologist can make all the difference. Here’s why Dr. Gopal Sharma stands out as the top choice in Delhi NCR:

Vast Experience:Dr. Sharma has successfully treated hundreds of cancer patients over his career, gaining invaluable experience in handling both common and rare cancers.

Specialized Expertise:He specializes in treating a wide range of cancers, including breast cancer, lung cancer, blood cancers, and gastrointestinal cancers. His deep knowledge ensures accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plans.

Advanced Treatment Methods:Dr. Sharma integrates cutting-edge technologies, such as robotic surgery, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, to deliver the best possible outcomes for his patients.

Compassionate Care:Beyond medical expertise, Dr. Sharma is known for his empathetic approach. He ensures that every patient feels supported throughout their treatment journey.

Proven Success Stories:His patients consistently report high levels of satisfaction, with many sharing their success stories of recovery under his care.

Services Offered by Dr. Gopal Sharma

Dr. Gopal Sharma offers comprehensive cancer treatment services, ensuring that his patients have access to all aspects of cancer care under one roof.

Surgical Oncology:Dr. Sharma is proficient in performing surgeries for the removal of cancerous tissues. He employs minimally invasive techniques whenever possible to reduce recovery times and improve outcomes.

Medical Oncology:Patients benefit from the latest advancements in chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies. These treatments are customized based on the type and stage of cancer.

Radiation Oncology:Dr. Sharma utilizes advanced radiation techniques to target cancer cells with precision while minimizing side effects.

Palliative Care:For patients in advanced stages of cancer, Dr. Sharma provides palliative care to improve their quality of life and manage symptoms effectively.

State-of-the-Art Facilities at Dr. Gopal Sharma’s Clinic

At Dr. Gopal Sharma’s clinic, patients have access to state-of-the-art facilities designed to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. The clinic is equipped with:

Advanced Diagnostic Tools: PET-CT, MRI, and advanced blood tests to detect and monitor cancer accurately.

Cutting-Edge Treatment Technologies: Including robotic surgery systems and modern radiation therapy equipment.

Patient-Centered Environment: A comfortable and supportive atmosphere that prioritizes patient well-being and privacy.

Success Stories and Testimonials

Dr. Sharma’s dedication to his patients is evident in the heartfelt testimonials he receives. Here are just a few examples of how he has positively impacted the lives of his patients:

“I am so thankful to Dr. Gopal Sharma for his care and expertise. He gave me hope when I was diagnosed with breast cancer and guided me every step of the way. Today, I’m cancer-free, thanks to him.”

“Dr. Sharma’s personalized approach made me feel confident in my treatment plan. He truly cares about his patients and goes above and beyond to provide the best care possible.”

How to Book an Appointment with Dr. Gopal Sharma

Booking an appointment with Dr. Gopal Sharma is a straightforward process:

Visit the Official Website: Go to https://drgopalsharma.co.in/.

Call the Clinic: Use the contact details provided on the website to speak with the clinic staff and schedule a consultation.

Submit an Online Form: Fill out the online appointment form available on the website to request a consultation at your convenience.

Why Dr. Gopal Sharma is the Best Cancer Specialist in Delhi NCR

Dr. Gopal Sharma’s exceptional skills, advanced treatment methods, and compassionate care make him the best choice for cancer treatment in Delhi NCR. His ability to combine cutting-edge technology with a patient-first approach ensures the highest level of care for every individual.

Preparing for Your Consultation with Dr. Gopal Sharma

To make the most of your consultation, it’s essential to be well-prepared. Here are a few tips:

Bring all relevant medical reports, including biopsy results, imaging scans, and previous treatment records.

Make a list of questions you want to ask Dr. Sharma about your diagnosis and treatment options.

Be ready to discuss your medical history and any symptoms you’re experiencing.

Conclusion: Trust Dr. Gopal Sharma for Comprehensive Cancer Care

When it comes to cancer treatment, you deserve the best care possible. Dr. Gopal Sharma offers unparalleled expertise, advanced treatment options, and compassionate support to help his patients on their journey to recovery. If you’re looking for a trusted and experienced cancer specialist in Delhi NCR, Dr. Sharma is your go-to expert.

Take charge of your health today by booking a consultation with Dr. Gopal Sharma. Your path to recovery starts here.

FAQs

1. What types of cancer does Dr. Gopal Sharma treat?Dr. Sharma treats a wide range of cancers, including breast cancer, lung cancer, blood cancers, and gastrointestinal cancers.

2. How can I contact Dr. Gopal Sharma’s clinic?You can visit his official website at https://drgopalsharma.co.in/ or call the clinic directly to schedule an appointment.

3. Does Dr. Gopal Sharma provide personalized treatment plans?Yes, Dr. Sharma customizes each treatment plan based on the patient’s unique condition and medical history.

4. What advanced technologies does Dr. Sharma use in his treatments?Dr. Sharma incorporates advanced technologies like robotic surgery, PET-CT scans, and immunotherapy in his cancer treatments.

5. Where is Dr. Gopal Sharma’s clinic located?Dr. Sharma’s clinic is located in Delhi NCR. You can find the exact address on his website.

[jennydodgson12]

Dear Friends and Community,

We are reaching out to you with a heartfelt request to support our dear friend, Dan, who has bravely for the past 18months been battling stage 4 bowel and bladder cancer. After a year of intense chemotherapy and radiotherapy, the side effects caused Dan to have many hospital stays away from his family, by helping to keep him fit, well and infection free this will allow him to spend quality time with his family at home,making memories that they all deserve.

At just 38 years old, Dan is a loving husband to his wonderful wife Laura and a devoted father to two beautiful daughters, aged 6 and 15.

Dan's journey with cancer has been incredibly challenging, with one set back after another these included bowel blockages, infections, 3 major abdominal operations, blood clots alongside a missed diagnosis of bladder cancer.

Dans strength and determination are truly inspiring. In May this year Dan and his family were told that Dans cancer was no longer curable, however, his oncologist has agreed for Dan to start on Immunotherapy ASAP, as a family we are thankful to have been offered this treatment on the NHS as we know from data that immunotherapy on the NHS is very rare. We now as a family have a little bit of hope.The care, empathy and support we have had from palliative care and district nurses has been incredible.

Alongside his conventional treatment of immunotherapy Dan is seeking complementary therapies that can provide relief and improve his quality of life during this difficult time. These therapies, however, come with significant costs that are not covered by the NHS.

We are rallying together to raise funds to support Dan and his family in accessing these vital complementary treatments. Your generous contribution, no matter the amount, will make a tremendous difference. It will not only help Dan manage his symptoms and side effects but also give him the strength to continue fighting for the sake of his beloved family.

Please consider donating to Dan's fund and sharing his story with others who might be able to help. Together, we can make a profound impact and offer Dan and his family the hope and support they need during this trying time.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness and generosity.

[oldbutnotyetwise]

Dying Wisdom

     Something interesting happens as you are approaching your own death, people suddenly think that you have gained wisdom.  They ask you questions and wait for something profound to come from your mouth or keyboard.  Has this act of dying suddenly made me wise? No, I don’t think it has, but what it has done is it has given me the gift of clarity.  Suddenly I am able to see through the haze of all the things that don't matter, something that was so hard to do through most of my life.  Suddenly I can see, and understand what is important, what really matters, which in some ways can give the impression that I am wise.  

     I have a counsellor named Gord who visits me every other week.  He is a quiet, gentle and wise man.  He is a counsellor connected with some of the nearby Hospices.  He has been asked to speak to an area Men’s Group, and he has been asked to share what wisdom the men in his Palliative Care Ministry would share with this group of men based on their current and life experiences.  What follows is my reply to Gord about his question to me.

     It can happen to you.  I think we all wander through life feeling we are somewhat invincible.  I was in good shape, loving my retirement, living my best life when suddenly the trap door under me opened and the world I knew was suddenly gone forever.  So next time you drive by that cancer hospital, see that disabled person struggling, visit that dying friend in the hospital, pause for a second and realize that that person could be you…..I hope it never is, but it could be.

     Stop putting everything off until tomorrow because sometimes tomorrow doesn’t come.  My wife and I had planned adventures but put them off as we had moved to our dream property and got busy there.  I feel badly that I didn’t give her some of those dream vacations because she deserved them, but I just thought we had more time.  Even after getting my terminal diagnosis we got busy taking care of things to prepare for what was coming, and I missed the chance to travel before my illness took the opportunity for travel away from me, from us.

     Life isn’t about collecting “things”, life is about loving, making memories, helping others, pursuing happiness and just maybe leaving the world a little better than you found it.  All the money in the world can’t save me, but somehow as I journeyed through life I managed to collect a menagerie of the best friends one could ever ask for.  Walking the road toward your impending demise can be a lonely and scary path on your own, but continually I find one of my friends there beside me, they don’t even have to say anything, the comfort comes from just finding them by my side.  So I hope that you have been a good friend, because those that have good friends tend to be good friends themselves.

     Time is very valuable but sadly we tend not to be aware of that until our Time is running out.  These days life seems to be lived at a super fast pace, which can be dangerous because all that Time we are hanging on for dear life, our life is passing us by.  Children grow up, friends move away or die, our health gets stolen away from us and we come to the end of our life without ever having lived.  Take it from someone who’s Time is running out, Time is more valuable than all those things you think you want or need.  When people are interviewed near the end of their life the thing they wish for more of isn’t money or things, it is more Time.  Once Time is gone you can’t get it back, so spend your Time wisely, very wisely.  

     I hope that you have a great spouse, partner, significant other, or whatever you might call them.  I am very lucky because I have the best wife of all time, I already knew she was great, but when my illness moved in with us she surpassed, and continues to surpass all my expectations.  I wouldn’t be here now if it wasn’t for her, she saves my life every day.  She manages to wring little bits of joy out of this small fraction of a life that remains, and she does it every single day for me.  Prior to diagnosis we were a very happy couple, but struggling through this illness has brought us to a level of love I never knew existed before.  I hope that if you ever find yourself confronted with a serious illness that you have a partner like mine.  A partner that loves you, shows you kindness and compassion, and is your rock to steady you when you stumble on your journey. I also hope that you recognize although you may have the terminal disease, both of you share it completely.  The very small life I live is also lived by my wife, she can’t travel, she can only leave our home for short periods because of my care needs, in her caring for me she has had to do things no one should have to do for their spouse.  She has no days off because she is caring for me 24/7, and somehow through all the exhaustion, unpleasant tasks and tears she continually shows so much love for me, despite how unlovable I may feel I am.  If you are visiting someone with a terminal illness don’t just check on them.  Take the time to check in on the caretaker, they are often forgotten about but carry such a heavy burden.

     Say the things that need to be said, because one day you, or the person you should have said those things to may be gone, and the things that needed to be said will then forever remain unsaid.  Tell people you love them and that you are grateful that they are in your life.  Don’t cling to grudges or old hurts, they are only stealing joy away from you.   How many of us have lost someone and regretted not telling them how we felt?  I know I certainly have lost dear close friends and family members before I said the things I should have said to them.

     I went out of my way to speak to numerous widows and widowers who had lost their partner to a terminal illness.  I asked each of them about the aftermath, the time after their partner had died, and asked them what went well and what do they wish they had done differently.  I have tried to learn from others who have travelled this road, I want to make things as easy as I can for my wife and daughter afterwards.  It is sort of the final gift that I can give.  So if you don’t have your affairs in order, terminal illness or not, get them in order,  Ensure your Will is up to date, that people know your wishes, and maybe even make your own funeral arrangements for yourself, it is a burden you can relieve your loved ones of during a time when they will be struggling.

     Do nice things for people, they don’t have to be huge things, sometimes the smallest of kindnesses can turn someone else’s day around.  Kindness costs you little if anything, but it pays huge dividends.  I can guarantee that kindness is the best investment you can make.  

     Be grateful for everything.  Gratitude is a core ingredient of happiness.  Even when something bad happens, don’t just focus on the bad thing, look around because there is good there too, it’s just harder to find.  My terminal illness has brought many amazing people into my life, brought countless acts of kindness to my wife and I, made me so appreciative of what I have, and made me feel so much love from my wife, daughter and friends.   I know this sounds a bit crazy, but this dying man is very lucky in so very many ways.

     At the end of every day as you lay down to sleep, pause for a minute or two and think that maybe you might not wake up tomorrow, and if that happened would you be happy with how you lived your life, spent your last day?  If the answer is no, then start making the changes you need to make, so that at the end of every day  you can say yes, you led a good life, you spent your day well and you can rest peacefully knowing that you have lived well.  

[virtualelectronicshub]

Cancer in Men: Common Types, Symptoms, and Treatment Considerations

Cancer is a disease that occurs when abnormal cells grow and spread uncontrollably in the body. It can affect any organ or tissue, and it can cause various symptoms depending on the location and stage of the cancer. Cancer is among the leading causes of death in men worldwide, and some types of cancer are more common or more deadly in men than in women.

Some of the most common types of cancer in men are:

Prostate cancer: This is the most common cancer in men, affecting the prostate gland that produces semen. It usually grows slowly and may not cause any symptoms until it is advanced. Some possible signs include difficulty urinating, blood in urine or semen, erectile dysfunction, or pain in the lower back or pelvis.

Lung cancer: This is the leading cause of cancer death in men, often due to smoking or exposure to other lung irritants. It can affect one or both lungs and may cause symptoms such as coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, or coughing up blood.

Colorectal cancer: This is the third most common cancer in men, affecting the colon or rectum. It can cause symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, abdominal pain or cramps, weight loss, or fatigue.

Skin cancer: This is the most preventable type of cancer, usually caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. It can affect any part of the skin and may appear as a new or changing mole, a sore that does not heal, a red or scaly patch, or a growth that bleeds or itches.

Head and Neck cancers:  This is the most common cancer in men in India.  The biggest risk factor is chewing tobacco, drinking too much alcohol and HPV infections.  Tobacco use is the most common cause of head and neck cancers.

Other types of cancer that are common or serious in men include bladder cancer, kidney cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, testicular cancer, and leukaemia.

The treatment options for cancer depend on the type, stage, location, and overall health of the patient. Some of the common treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, and palliative care. The goal of treatment is to remove or destroy the cancer cells and prevent them from spreading or recurring.

The best way to prevent or detect cancer early is to adopt a healthy lifestyle and get regular screenings and check-ups. Some of the preventive measures include:

Avoiding tobacco use

Limiting alcohol consumption

Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables

Maintaining a healthy weight

Being physically active

Protecting yourself from the sun

Getting vaccinated against certain viruses that can cause cancer

Getting screened for prostate cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and skin cancer according to your age and risk factors

Cancer can be a scary and challenging diagnosis for anyone. However, with proper care and support, many men can survive and thrive after cancer. If you have any concerns or questions about cancer, talk to your doctor or a trusted healthcare professional. They can help you understand your risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and coping strategies. Remember that you are not alone in this journey, and that there are many resources and support groups available to help you and your loved ones. Cancer can be a tough opponent, but you can fight back with courage and hope.

For more details click on the link 👇🏻 https://bit.ly/3osreVo

[nikonladyz4]

Stem Cell Transplant Update

My initial post below is circulating again as people revisit my blog. It’s been six months since my stem cell transplant for cancer, which replaced my immune system, and I’m doing remarkably well. My oncologist said I had an impressive response with my “medical rebirth,” as I’ve achieved a partial response. My recent bone marrow biopsy and PET scan revealed the absence of cancerous cells. However, my bloodwork still shows traces of cancer cells. My doctor assured me that this is normal and that these cells should resolve within the year due to the effectiveness of my new immune system. I’m currently in the process of receiving some of my vaccinations, but I’ll need to catch up on all my childhood and adult vaccinations, which will take approximately two years to complete.

Despite these challenges, I’m thrilled to share that I have tickets to see Hobi in Chicago. I’m incredibly grateful to God and the countless prayers I’ve received. While I can’t fly yet, we’ll drive to the show and enjoy the experience. I kindly request continued prayers for my recovery and health safety as I attend the concert with 16,000 people. My doctor is hesitant about my attendance, but I’ll do my best to stay safe and relish this newfound opportunity for life.

Posted 2/6/25

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nikonladyz4

Jul 15, 2024

Prayers and BTS Friend’s Support Requested

To my followers and fellow BTS lovers, I have been battling a very rare blood cancer called Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia for almost 10 years. Last year the immunotherapy drug I had been on for 6 years caused ventricular tachycardia of the heart which caused me to immediately stop therapy. This news was three days after attending Suga/Agust D’s concert in Chicago. What a downer to come home from that amazing, phenomenal concert.

I resumed a 2nd generation drug 3 months later which caused additional heart issues and had to reduce the dosage and subsequently stop that therapy in November. There were only two options left, one being a regiment of chemotherapy that would put me in palliative care, or the other option being an autologous stem cell transplant. This option could potentially add several more years of life in partial/full remission. Unfortunately the cancer will come back and I will get that palliative final round of chemo.

I chose the stem cell option and started the process 3 months ago with an oral chemo drug to kill cancer cells. I had a high dose of infusion chemo this past Friday and started daily injections on Sunday to create new stem cells in my bone marrow that will be moved to my blood stream for harvesting in two weeks. It will take up to 4 days to harvest the stem cells and then frozen until transplant day.

I will then go into the hospital for extreme chemotherapy to kill off my immune system (red and white blood cells and platelets) for a medical “rebirth” where my harvested stem cells will be transplanted back into my bloodstream for engraphment into my bone marrow.

So again, I am just telling my BTS family and friends while asking for your prayers and well wishes as I complete this new medical journey so that I can see my beloved BTS boys in concert next year.

The good news is my initial prognosis was for 5-10 years. I was diagnosed at 51 and I will be 61 on Saturday, one day after our beloved Jimin drops his new album of love songs! YES YES YES

Posted: 7/15/24

[science-sculpt]

A Journey Through Time: Exploring the History of Cancer

Cancer, a disease that has plagued humanity for millennia, holds a complex and fascinating history. Our earliest encounters with cancer date back to ancient Egypt, where fossilized bone tumors and descriptions in medical papyri like the Edwin Smith Papyrus (3000 BC) offer chilling glimpses. The "Father of Medicine," Hippocrates (460-370 BC), coined the term "carcinoma," inspired by the crab-like appearance of tumors. While treatments were limited to cauterization and surgery, these early observations laid the groundwork for future understanding.

The Middle Ages saw a decline in scientific progress, with cancer often attributed to imbalances in bodily humors or divine punishment. However, glimpses of hope emerged. Arab physicians like Avicenna (980-1037 AD) categorized tumors and advocated for early surgical intervention. Microscopes revealed the cellular nature of tumors, and anesthesia paved the way for safer and more effective surgical interventions. The 18th and 19th centuries witnessed a surge in scientific curiosity. Percivall Pott (1714-1788) linked scrotal cancer in chimney sweeps to soot exposure, marking the first identification of an environmental carcinogen. Microscopes unveiled the cellular nature of tumors, and Rudolf Virchow (1821-1902) proposed the revolutionary "cell theory," laying the foundation for our modern understanding of cancer as a cellular disease.

The 20th century ushered in a new era of cancer research and treatment. Wilhelm Röntgen's discovery of X-rays in 1895 paved the way for radiation therapy, while the development of chemotherapy in the 1940s offered another weapon in the fight against cancer. Screening programs and early detection strategies emerged, leading to improved survival rates for certain cancers.

Today, we stand at the precipice of a new frontier in cancer research. The Human Genome Project has unlocked the secrets of our genetic makeup, leading to targeted therapies and personalized medicine. Immunotherapy, harnessing the body's own immune system to fight cancer, is showing remarkable promise. The future holds hope for even more effective and personalized treatments, potentially leading to a world where cancer becomes a chronic, manageable condition.

Cancer's history is a testament to human resilience and ingenuity. From ancient observations to modern marvels of science, the fight against this formidable foe has been a constant struggle. The fight against cancer is far from over, but the progress made through research and innovation is remarkable. As we delve deeper into the complexities of cancer biology and explore novel technologies, the future holds immense promise for improved prevention, early detection, and personalized treatments.

While the journey through history highlights the significant progress made, it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle and the unwavering hope for a future free from this formidable foe.

As we mark World Cancer Day today, February 4th, 2024, it's a stark reminder of the immense global challenge cancer presents. This year's theme, "Close the care gap: Access is equity," compels us to acknowledge and address the disparities in cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and palliative care that exist across different communities and regions. But amidst the statistics and struggles, there's also hope – hope fueled by the tireless efforts of researchers, healthcare professionals, and individuals like you and me.

[talkingwithprincess]

The Unwavering Commitment: Persisting in Providing Palliative Care Against All Odds Introduction: Palliative care, a compassionate approach to enhancing the quality of life for individuals facing life-limiting illnesses, is a field that demands unwavering commitment and dedication. Despite the numerous obstacles and hurdles encountered along the way, healthcare providers and professionals in palliative care continue to persevere. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of persisting in providing palliative care despite facing various challenges, highlighting the profound impact it has on patients and their families. Overcoming Stigma: Discuss the stigma associated with palliative care and the importance of persisting in breaking down misconceptions and raising awareness. Share stories of individuals who have overcome stigma to advocate for palliative care, emphasizing their determination and the positive outcomes achieved. Embracing Emotional Resilience: Explain the emotional challenges faced by palliative care providers and how they persist by developing resilience. Provide practical strategies and self-care techniques for healthcare professionals to nurture their emotional well-being and continue their important work. Navigating Resource Limitations: Highlight the resource constraints faced by palliative care programs, including financial limitations and limited access to specialized services. Discuss creative solutions and collaborative approaches that enable providers to continue delivering quality palliative care despite these hurdles. Advocating for Policy Changes: Explore the significance of persisting in advocating for policy changes that support and expand palliative care services. Discuss successful advocacy initiatives and the impact they have had in improving access to palliative care, even in the face of opposition. Supporting Caregivers: Recognize the vital role of caregivers in the palliative care journey and the challenges they face. Provide guidance and resources for caregivers to empower them to persist in their caregiving roles and seek support when needed. Collaborating with Interdisciplinary Teams: Highlight the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in palliative care and the importance of persisting in fostering strong team dynamics. Share examples of successful collaboration and how it positively impacts patient outcomes and overall care provision. Ensuring Continuity of Care: Discuss the challenges of providing seamless and continuous palliative care across different settings, including hospitals, hospices, and home care. Highlight the dedication of palliative care providers in ensuring patients receive consistent and uninterrupted care throughout their journey. Celebrating Success Stories: Share inspiring success stories of palliative care providers who have persisted against all odds, achieving remarkable outcomes and positively impacting lives. Showcase the transformative power of palliative care and the ripple effect it creates within communities. Conclusion: Persisting in providing palliative care despite facing various obstacles and hurdles is a testament to the unwavering commitment of healthcare professionals and organizations in improving the lives of patients and their families. By overcoming stigma, nurturing emotional resilience, advocating for policy changes, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, the palliative care community continues to make a significant difference. Let us celebrate their dedication and support their endeavors, ensuring that compassionate care is accessible to all, even in the face of challenging odds.

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