This week we have been able to look at research and its benefits to those around us. We have also discussed the very challenging topic of societal benefits in which it is okay to subject children to research. I think any time we bring children into the equation it hits a very soft, compassionate part of us, part the reason this was a tough topic for me.
However, in the end research has provided numerous benefits over the years, one personal example is my dear brother. Those of you from previous courses have possibly read previous posts about him. At three years old Justin was diagnosed with Medulloblastoma, a type of brain tumor. When he was diagnosed with this tumor the survival rates were not very high at all. Not much was known about this type of cancer. We were blessed that he was one of the few survivors of this cancer at the time. After nearly 20 years of research, the survival rate is now at 85% . St. Jude Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee is a hospital built with the mission to advance treatments and cures of catastrophic diseases such as cancer. Many forms of cancer that we once knew very little about, are now well known and have an extremely high survival rate, due to the tremendous amount of research that has occurred.When I think of St. Jude I think of the millions of families who are positively affected by the research that occurs within those walls each day. Please check out the article on Medulloblastoma http://www.stjude.org/stjude/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=557ad3ce38e70110VgnVCM1000001e0215acRCRD&vgnextchannel=406a0016380f0110VgnVCM1000001e0215acRCRD
Hi Jo...you have every reason to be grateful and share that story. St. Jude's does wonderful things for so many. Good post!
ReplyDeleteHi Jo this story is the very reason why research is needed. Earlier this week our assignment centered on whether research should be don which involved children and whether the research should go beyond minimum risk. This very article that you shared is the reason why some research has to go beyond minimum, but stay inside the boundaries of ethical morale.
ReplyDeleteHi Jo, I agree with you and can relate. This is why we can feel "at ease" in trusting research, as well as, respecting the process of research. Research has improved so many lives. Like I said in our discussion posts, it depends on an individual's experiences as to views on research and the research process.
ReplyDeleteJo Ann,
ReplyDeleteI agree, whenever we bring children into the equation, it hits a "soft spot". Thank you for sharing something so personal with the class...your message gives hope for so many who may know of others going through a similar situation. And yes, research findings not only provides one with information to save lives, it can also improve the quality of life as well.
Nicky
Jo Ann: Thank you so much for your sharing your heartfelt story about your brother. I was very saddened and uplifted by your story. I wish your family many blessings.
ReplyDelete