During my post misdiagnosis anger phase, I read everything I could get my hands on about medical errors, their causes, and their consequences. I’m not sure why, except perhaps I wanted reassurance that I had not been the only one ever to have suffered in such a way. It was partially cathartic, and partially responsible for inciting me to begin helping other patients empower themselves. (We shall overcome!)
The very first book I read was called Wall of Silence ~ The Untold Story of the Medical Mistakes that Kill and Injure Millions of Americans by Rosemary Gibson and Janardan Singh. Certainly it reinforced the idea that I was not alone. Then it made me even angrier! Finally, it strengthened my resolve to help others.
Fast forward two+ years to this week — when I received an email from Ilene Corina at PULSE asking if I would be willing to talk to Rosemary Gibson about her next book!
That conversation took place yesterday — and what a conversation it was. Rosemary is now working on a book about the many ways treatments are recommended because they are profitable, and not because they will help a patient. Her interest in my story is that I accused my original oncologist of insisting I undergo chemo because it was the only way he could make money from me — certainly a case in Rosemary’s point.
Rosemary shared other stories with me briefly — and they are just as compelling for her argument, and her book. She’s looking for others, too — so if you know of anyone with a similar story, contact me, and I’d be happy to pass on your info to Rosemary. Networking is incredibly valuable! And of course, that’s how Rosemary and I hooked up to begin with.
If you’re interested in learning more about the conspiracy of silence within healthcare and the harm it can cause you, I urge you to buy Wall of Silence – here’s a link.
It will help you understand better why patient empowerment is so necessary, and why advocating for yourself or your loved ones can save lives.
| ……………….. | |
 |
Want more tools for sharp patients? Sign up for Every Patient’s Advocate once-a-week or so email tips. |
| ……………….. |