Last September, a gentleman and professor from Carnegie Mellon (Carnegie Tech) made headlines when he announced he had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, then stood before a lecture hall of students and gave his “lecture of a lifetime.” It’s about achieving one’s childhood dreams. I watched it again this morning. As I said when I […]
Update on Randy Pausch, Known for His Lecture of a Lifetime Read More »
This is not a typical blog post. Most often, as I sit down to my computer, I’m thinking about some piece of news, or a conversation I’ve had, or a question someone has sent me to help them navigate their care. Instead, as I sit down at my computer on this Thanksgiving morning 2007, I’m
Unexpected Blessings Read More »
I remember hearing in 1976 about Betty Rollin, a TV reporter who had written a book about her experience with breast cancer called, First, You Cry. I was in my 20s, and a new mom. In fact, my daughter Becca turns 31 today and I remember watching book-tour type interviews with Ms. Rollin as I
Cancer and Bravery: Those Strong TV Women Read More »
(A Note: I’ve actually started this post a few times, but then I have to grab another tissue, wipe away my tears, and start again…. this is the face of post traumatic stress…. so bear with me, please….) At least a dozen people have sent me links to what ABC called “A Lecture of a
Dr. Pausch on Life – and PTSD Read More »
You’d be amazed at the email and postal mail I receive from patients who have been hurt by the medical system. Perhaps not at the numbers — I receive a handful each week. Instead, you’d be amazed at what they ask me to do. I’ve put the people who write to me about medical errors
Blamers and Fixers: Which One Are You? Read More »
It comes on in a rush, and it makes me feel like a Sweet-tart — you know, one of those candies that you bite into, it grabs the sour corners of your tongue, and it just dissolves…. The overwhelming dread and tears begin to descend, sometimes I just collapse. It takes a good cry to
SPTCL and Post-Traumatic Meltdown Read More »
Today is Father’s Day, and I can’t help but think about the huge influence my dad has had on who I am and why I do this work for you. It seems fitting to share them with you today. Dad gave me my name: I am Patricia Torrey, daughter of Richard and Betty (Stetson) Torrey.
Curiosity, Charity, Golf and more: Dad Taught Me How to Help You Read More »
… for every email I’ve received from friends, web visitors, blog readers, radio listeners regarding the man in England named John who was misdiagnosed with cancer, spent all his money, then found out he had no cancer afterall… Yes — the misdiagnosis story is my story, too, minus two major points: I didn’t spend all
Cancer Misdiagnosis: If I had a nickel…. Read More »
