Should Women Get Mammograms at 40, 50, or Never?

Panel Says Women Under Age 50 Don't Need Mammograms

Preface:

Up until this point I've avoided writing about health care reform, or health care in general, because it's been too close to me. Even though many have urged me to tell my story on-line, I couldn't bring myself to do it. But the time has come when my story wants to come out. So think of this as the 'preface' where the author (me) is telling you, "This is MY story."

Living with a Chronically Ill Parent:

When I was 15 my father had a sudden stroke and lapsed into a coma for two weeks. This incident was by no means isolated, as twenty-seven years later he continues to have seizure and stroke activity on a somewhat regular, if not predictable, basis. The doctors are never quite sure what's "wrong" with him, but they can control the seizures with medication. Without medication, he surely would have died years ago.

You might think that this is a testament to the miracle of medical science, and I'm sure I would feel that way, too, if I hadn't lived it. The fact is, It's extremely difficult to have a chronically ill parent. At the time that I'm writing this, I'm just getting off an eight week stint of having my father in the hospital more than he wasn't. At one point he was unable to feed himself so I was going to the hospital before and after my day job everyday. I'm physically exhausted, and not doing so well emotionally, either.

What about the quality of life for this man? Don't get me wrong- I certainly don't wish my father dead- but it's beyond heartbreaking to watch someone fight for his life for 27 years. His body is slowly breaking down. He's suffered a heart attack brought on by years of having major and mini strokes, and his kidneys aren't functioning properly- most likely the side effect of years of prescribed barbiturates.

The Influence My Father's Illness Had on Me:

My father's illness has influenced me in two ways. First, I don't want to be kept alive by medication. Secondly, I don't want my loved ones to have to watch me suffer for decades. Unless you've been there - for 27 years- you don't know how hard it is. I don't wish it on anyone and I refuse to knowingly put anyone through that.

My Husband, His Heart Disease, and Our Medical Bills: