Update 3-4 February Mid- Week Special

Molly Ivins, who died from breast cancer after a long and painful fight, and Claudie L. Smith, the mother of my best friend, Mary John, another painful death caused by physician error. Neither of these people should have died at this time.  Both deaths should have been preventable.

The Institute of Medicine (IOM) report on medical errors stated that between 44,000 and 98,000 hospitalized Americans die each year as a result of preventable medical errors. Even if the lower number is closer to truth, it is 44,000 too many errors in a field where these errors were people-caused.

There is a NEW diagnosis of breast cancer every three minutes in the United States.
We’re making headway on this problem, but not fast enough, nor are we devoting enough money for research.  That’s why I’m walking.

I will miss the wit and wisdom of Molly Ivins.  She made our world, and my life, better.

I will miss Claudie Smith because she was the quintessence southern lady.  And Mary John is now without that complex relationship that exists between mother and daughter, and I hurt deeply for my friend. 

I know that death comes to us all, and I know that it comes to the good sooner than to the bad.  But I am really getting tired of people dying unnecessarily. These deaths have made me angry.  In my profession I do what I can to educate people about unnecessary medical deaths.  By walking I am trying to do something about breast cancer. 

Again, thank you for helping me.

Anne
IF I DON'T, WHO WILL?