My husband Thom and I just returned for a month long stay just south of Rosarito Mexico on the Baja coast. Our rental condo offered us lovely cool temperatures without the need for air conditioning, outstanding views, great food and wine, a regular routine of beach walks, and something completely unexpected—lots of conversation about local alternative health therapies. After hearing a couple of amazing stories about people who experienced dramatic healings, we discovered what many who live or visit south of the border already know, medicine in other countries has advantages. What caught my interest most of all was the fact that even though people are flying in from around the world to take advantage of certain cutting-edge techniques, the vast majority of Americans will never even get a second opinion when faced with a medical crisis. What makes a few willing to make the trip while most of us stay home?
About five years ago a very good friend of ours named Richard began experiencing major back pain. Years went by with Richard trying just about everything he could to overcome his declining health. He explored solutions from steroids and cortisol shots from an M.D., to chiropractic adjustments, reflexology, massage and acupuncture. Still his pain continued to get worse until he could not walk without a cane and stooped over like a man much older than his 65 years. Eventually it was decided that he needed surgery in order to have chance for a normal life. But by that time his health had so deteriorated that the doctors were worried that he wouldn’t survive the surgery.
That’s when Richard heard about experimental stem-cell treatment being done in Ensenada, Mexico. Just a short hour drive from Rosarito is the Ensenada Health and Wellness Center. While stem cell therapy is illegal in the United States, no such restriction exists in Mexico. Richard visited the Center and after talking with the founder, Michael Hino, Ph.D. about the potential of stem cells, he began treatment. Almost immediately his body responded positively and he was able to walk again. Within six months he returned to his HMO doctor in the States to be evaluated for the surgery that was originally recommended. The doctors were amazed at his overall recovery although they did not want to talk about stem cells. The surgery was successful and six years later, Richard is walking and living happily in Rosarito full time.
While the stem cells did not completely heal all the problems with Richard’s back, they did repair four out of five of his issues including rejuvenating and rebuilding the pads of his vertebra giving him his height back. To complete his healing he required traditional back surgery. But most importantly, because his health had been restored with stem cells, he was not only able to bounce back from extremely poor health, but he was able to heal well after his surgery.
Now Richard is a big cheerleader for stem cell therapy and speaks highly of Dr. Hino and his clinic. He has also recommended the treatment to others suffering from a variety of illnesses including Parkinson’s disease, cancer, arthritis and heart disease. Richard is convinced without a doubt that he is alive and healthy today because of the treatment he received that would have been impossible in the United States.
Another success story comes from a woman named Sandy that we met during our visit. Sandy originally heard about alternative treatments in Mexico after receiving a diagnosis for a brain tumor. When doctors in her home town in Utah started dosing her with a pill form of chemotherapy, after she specifically requested no chemo, Sandy took her health into her own hands and went to Mexico. She originally attended a health clinic in Tijuana that offered mainly dietary treatments for her condition. Later she underwent a treatment at Sanoviv Medical Institute just south of Rosarito.
Sandy is now tumor free and feels she owes her life to the treatment she experienced at Sanoviv. Rather than submitting to an invasive and damaging chemotherapy for her condition, Sandy feels that the integrated approach offered by Sanoviv is a better alternative. With a huge staff of a wide variety of health practitioners including traditional M.D’s, Sanoviv prides itself for treating each patient as an individual and basing treatments to fit the person. Sandy is also a cheerleader for the Institute and recommends it to everyone who needs healing.
So what’s the problem? Unfortunately the American Medical Association and most doctors in the U.S. consider such treatment to be irresponsible and downright dangerous. And sometimes they might be right. Snake Oil Salesmen are a part of American history and anyone who claims outrageous cures are easy to suspect. (Anyone heard of what Dr. Oz recently admitted to a U.S. Senate Panel?) Obviously not everyone who claims to be able to heal us is honest or correct. But how do we know the difference?
The American Medical Association states that unless an appropriate number of medical studies and trials have been done proving a treatment works, it is not valid and never recommended. Traditional doctors are also concerned that people will ignore their advice or delay treatment in search of alternatives and reduce their chances of remission or cure. In addition, they worry that alternative medicine could “interfere” with any treatment they recommend. While traditional doctors are now willing to admit that “certain” alternative methods might be helpful regarding pain management and quality of life issues, those recommended choices only include massage, acupuncture, meditation and yoga.
So because there are no traditional doctors being educated in medical schools in alternative therapies, and certainly no studies or trials being done by drug companies, any treatment that doesn’t fit mainstream gets bad press. And who would pay for such studies? Of course, as Upton Sinclair says, “It is difficult to get a man to understand something when his salary depends upon his not understanding it.”
So, why would any of us try alternative medicine if regular doctors caution against it? I have had two major health issues in my life, one requiring surgery for a broken shoulder after a motorcycle accident, and another after a golf-ball sized gallstone was plugging up my gall bladder. I gratefully went to a surgeon when I needed to and got the good quality care I expected. I wasn’t interested in something alternative and didn’t even look.
But unfortunately, not every visit to the doctor is as clear-cut and easy to resolve. And let’s face it, some of us have what oncologist James C. Salwitz says is a “deep mistrust in the objectivity of the ‘physician-medical school-pharmaceutical-government complex.’” But even more than that, research done by JAMA in 1998 claims, “…the majority of alternative medicine users appear to be doing so not so much as a result of being dissatisfied with conventional medicine but largely because they find these health care alternatives to be more congruent with their own values, beliefs, and philosophical orientations toward health and life.”
Let me be very clear—I’m not trying to convince anyone to stick with traditional medicine OR to try something alternative. What fascinates me is how people are able to choose—especially when faced with a life and death decision like cancer or another debilitating disease. In Richard’s case he didn’t have much to lose by the time he went to see Dr. Hino. But Sandy?
Interestingly enough, Sandy mentioned that her mother-in-law had been diagnosed with a very aggressive cancer just a couple of years ago. Sandy and her husband went to the hospital to support the mother and father and offer help when it came to making treatment decisions. The doctor recommended aggressive chemotherapy to begin immediately. Unfortunately, when Sandy and her husband suggested an alternate approach or at least a second opinion, the mother, father AND doctor became extremely defensive. The next day, the mother told Sandy that she didn’t want to do anything to upset her father, and would do just as her doctor told her. Six weeks later the mother was dead.
So what is it that makes a person choose? I’m not saying it’s easy—I just can’t help but wonder what it takes for a person to say yes to one and no to another. What it reminded me of was when I attempted to have an end-of-life talk with my parents before they passed away. I wanted to know what they wanted and how it should be handled if they were ever unable to decide themselves. Instead, they just pooh-poohed me away and refused to talk about it.
I think that’s what happens in most cases with severe illness or disease in our culture. We don’t want to talk about it. We want to go to a doctor who will handle everything for us and give us a pill, or sign us up for some treatment and that’s it. We don’t want to think about it. Unfortunately that isn’t always what’s best. Plus, like Sandy’s mother-in-law, we don’t want to disturb those around us so we just go with whatever program is laid out in front of us. Sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn’t.
I’m not sure what I would do if I were faced with cancer or some other disease, but I do know that there are alternatives. And now, so do you. Second opinions are critical. People you can trust to help you make choices are essential. Giving ourselves a little time and space to research and process is also very important. Think people, think.
We do have choices all around us. Some are across the border and involve a little travel, and some are as close as a change of heart and mind. SMART Living is all about staying awake, aware and conscious about the choices and decisions we face—especially when it concerns something like our own health. Ultimately, the best healings come when we arrive at a place of peace about our choices and know we did what we could with what we have.
During Senior High, my father had lost a job which led my family to sell our house and go back to the countryside. We left the city for the rural area.
My grandmother had a simple House which had many plants (fruits, several crops, and herbal medicine it was great.) around it, and my mother was very comfortable to rely on alternative medicine all throughout our four years stay there. The only exception was my brother’s Asthma which isn’t that harmful to him regularly visiting the doctor just to assure that he wouldn’t have attacks.
Great post Kathy! it sure had reminded me that of my experience in the province. Cheers!
I too strongly believe in the connection between body and mind. Thankfully, I have never suffered from any serious illness and I have always had the thought that this may be because I adopt a healthy lifestyle and think positively about my health. I would certainly be open to the use of alternative therapies if I felt that this type of treatment would be less invasive and more effective, and perhaps offer a solution that may not be available through traditional types of medicine. The most important thing is to get the treatment that feels right for you, and which you are completely comfortable with. I believe that everyone should have the right to choose the treatment that they want, and not be pressured into something they are not happy with by doctors.
Really alternative medicine with oils and plants are a miracle, I use oil Sucupira originally from Amazon, heard? cure different diseases, such as osteoarthritis arthritis and many other inflammations … very good Article congratulations
Hi Jessica! Yes, there are so many great things we can use from Mother Earth to help keep us healthy and even heal when necessary. I’ve never heard of Sucupira oil but I’ll check it out. ~Kathy
Thanks Guy’s for a great article, Two years ago I had a blood test and had slightly raised blood sugar levels. The Doctor immediately diagnosed me as a type 2 diabetic and prescribed a list of drugs as long as my arm. Something finally snapped and I said no and left after a brief argument. I then researched alkaline diets and set about changing my lifestyle and the same doctor is now astounded that 12 months later I have no sign of raised cholesterol, no high blood pressure and normal sugar levels. And my record has now been wiped of any reference to Diabetes.
As you I am now convinced with a little determination and research we can turn illness around and live healthy lifestyles.
Ron
Hi Ron! Good for you for turning your life around in such a positive and healthy way. Thank you for sharing your story with us. ~Kathy
mind and body are connected. i know a lot of strong mind people recovered from serious illness without using any medication. As in the bible says, you are what you believe, i truly believe that if i get sick and i strongly remind myself that i gonna recover from this soon, then i will get well very soon (not just believe but behave in a healthy way also).
Most of All, dont live stressful life. Everything will be good.
Thank you very much for the awesome post.
Both alternative/complementary methods of treatment and standard western medical practice has it’s place and both can help in different ways. I think over the years, and particularly in the UK, therapies that were once considered fringe or unacceptable, have now gradually become accepted. Chiropractic treatment is commonplace and studies have proven it’s efficacy. Drugs and doctors can’t help out with everything and neither can Chiropractors and other alternative/complementary therapies. What does need to happen though, is for us to have an open mind and collect evidence to support effective treatments.
Hi Jon! Thanks for stopping my SMART Living and sharing your thoughts on tis. Yes, thankfully more and more treatments are become acceptable, not just those that support a “western” view of medical practice. I believe there is a time and a place for both but always I think we need to keep an open mind about them AND follow our own guidance about which way to go. ~Kathy
you are right.there are many cases where the patient seems to be recovered with unconventional treatments and the natural supplements and therapies is one them.Most of these unconventional medicines work better then normally used drugs they should be considered by doctors and physicians while dealing with patients.
Hi Hamza. I think anyone faced with illness should consider ALL form of remedies–both traditional and untraditional. In this day and age it isn’t SMART to turn our health over to anyone but ourselves. Thanks for your thoughts on this. ~Kathy
I expect that more and more doctors (and insurance companies) are buying into the notion of the Mind-Body Connection.
I sure hope so! But the more of us who keep pushing the envelope the better in my opinion!
I read The Empowered Patient a few weeks ago ~ interesting anecdotes about people who did NOT follow their doctor’s advice to the letter because something didn’t gel with the totality of their experience.
Hi NR! I haven’t heard of that book but I did find it interesting that most of the people willing to try alternative medicine did it for exactly that reason. I agree that it’s not because we don’t want to trust doctors and western medicine…it’s just that so many of us realize that we are so much more physically, mentally and spiritually than just the symptom going on in our body at any given time. Of course in some ways this is changing…at least now some doctors are acknowledging that diet, exercise and stress impact our health. Maybe someday??? ~Kathy
Hello Kathy. I’m a big believer in going alternative…. This is a good article and a very interesting conversation…..
Hi Adam! Thanks for stopping by SMART Living and sharing your thoughts. It is a good conversation and one that most of us should have regarding our health. Thanks again for your comment. ~Kathy
Many tend to stay away from alternative options when it comes to getting treated for health conditions. Statistics have proven that traditional Chinese medicine, treatments and remedies help in treating many conditions. It is an option that needs to be considered.
Hi Caleb! Thanks for stopping by SMART Living and sharing your thoughts. And yes, you are so right that we in the U.S. tend to forget that there is a HUGE other world out there that has been offering healing for thousands of years in many ways. Indigenous cultures have hundreds of different remedies that have NOTHING to do with western medicine. While Western medicine is REALLY good at some things, much of the time we should considered tried and true methods instead. ~Kathy
Kathy,
These are incredible stories and I wish I had time to read all of the comments as I am sure there are great stories there too. It’s amazing what is out there and the stories of people healing themselves. I am convince that there are unlimited approaches to healing, and the ways one works and others don’t is a mystery. For every healing there are also many sad stories that the alternative made it worse. For every allopathic success story, there are millions that have been more damaging. I think we don’t really know the formula, but I am looking into it. I think if I was sick, I would figure something out. 🙂
Hi Jodi! I think you definitely got the point I’m hoping to make. I think we all have many choices about our healings and that we should NEVER GIVE UP if we indeed want to heal. But I think healing is very multi-layered so it’s never quite as simple as saying, oh yeah, I want to be healed of this or that. I think real healings require us to change in simple and sometimes complex ways and that isn’t always easy or even wanted. My intention for myself is to stay conscious of that and to make the very best choices I can when I am faced with those types of decisions. Thanks for your thoughts. ~Kathy
In 2009 I was told that without aggressive chemo and radiation I would have about a year to live and that with them I would live about 5 years. Of course, with them I would also have bowel blockages requiring more surgery and all the other side effects. I politely, or maybe not so politely, declined their, oh so generous, offer. I did lots of alternatives. I changed my diet and was religious about it. I did lots of energy medicine and I did a lot of forgiveness work, including forgiving my body for what I viewed as betrayal and I started sending love and gratitude to my uterus even tho it was gone. I also took supplements that have been shown to be hazardous to cancer’s health. I hit my five year mark this year and am cancer free.
Hi Claudia! Wow! Thank you so much for sharing your story with us. I am impressed by your courage and conviction. I know that it is nearly impossible for those of us who aren’t facing that decision to imagine what it was (and still is really) to have heard those words and had to choose but I definitely admire you for not only the choice you made but all the work you did to become cancer free. Maybe that is what stops many of us from making the choice that you did. We know on some level that if we do, we will have to make some BIG changes and that life will never ever be the same. You are such a role model for all of us. Thank you for taking the time to check in and share your story. May your good health continue for long into the future. ~Kathy
Kathy,
I love discussions about alternative medicine because if my Multiple Sclerosis community, where pharmaceutical companies can make it difficult to get medications for several reasons, or clinical trials are held up for $$ reasons, the world of complementary medicine is powerful. So we read about it all of the time, and we consider all of our options.
Just so you know, stem cell treatments are being performed now in the US, and I know of several people in the MS threads I moderate who have had them. And quite successfully, I might add. I have always said I am placing my hope on stem cells on how we will lead a better quality of life. I’d bet the farm on it.
Also I wrote about an Emmy Award winning composer who had a treatment called CCSVI that is not FDA approved and done in one place in the US. He wasn’t walking before and now is. I tried to get a few media outlets to publish my post but no takers! So I posted it on my blog. The MS community was thrilled.
I subscribe to Dr. Andrew Weil’s approach since my diagnosis 25 years ago. It includes alternative medicines. To feel and be healthier I will try anything that is well researched and backed up by scientific proof before I try it. But try it I will.
My husband has herniated discs. Cortisone shots didn’t help. An inversion table 3 times a day does the tricks. Look and then leap.
Excellent post, Kathy.
Hi Cathy! Thank you so much for jumping in here with your background and experience. I’m still seeing plenty of news and articles saying that stem cells are largely unavailable and considered unsafe by the FDA here in the states. After I read your post I did google it and saw that for certain “trials” it is now available, and I think in NY you can get it for one particular condition. If you know of any other states that offer it, please share that for any of my readers. Of course I’m sure that the cost for any treatment here in the US is exhorbitant even if you can get it approved. My husband and I have our dental work done in Mexico and it is usually about 1/3 what it costs here in the states. I can only imagine what “experimental” treatment costs.
And yes to Dr. Weil and his advice. Unfortunately treatments have to start somewhere before they are even able to get researched or studied scientifically so those answers aren’t always available to people during serious illness. Besides, what about all the tests and studies done about chemo–and yet people ask for it and most doctors readily give it even when it’s not called for (plenty of proof on the internet that that happens all the time.) Unfortunately until drug companies can figure out how to capitalize on many of these treatments they likely won’t be widely accepted–unless people demand it.
Can you believe that Chiropractic, meditation and yoga are still considered “alternative” medicine? An inversion table is so-so-so much better than surgery!!!!
Thanks for your comments. I will have to check out that post of yours where you talk about the CCSVI treatment. ~Kathy
I’m rather fed up with the traditional medical world. My husband and I both have chronic issues (peripheral neuropathy for him, MS for me) and it seems the doctors never, ever know exactly what to do and it’s all experiments… that never seem to work. That said, though, I know of a young gal whose parents raised THOUSANDS of dollars for a treatment in Mexico for her MS, spent the time and money and NOTHING came of it (except dashed hopes and lost funds).
I’m not sure what the answer is. Interesting to consider all the options, though. And wise.
Hi Lisa! Thanks for sharing your experiences with this topic. It is EXTREMELY frustrating for anyone who has a condition and hasn’t found relief. And as you say, it is made even more complicated when you hear about people who try certain alternatives and stay exactly the same. It’s a tricky situation and again, I’m not sure which way I would go. But if I was to consider an alternative I would find plenty of reviews and feedback before I turned over my money. Of course, I’d do the same if I was to see a specialist for any healthcare here in the U.S. We simply have to pay attention, ask questions and not be afraid to make changes if we aren’t getting the results we want. Thanks again for your thoughts. ~Kathy
I recently learned that Duke University Medical School now has a specialty in alternative medicine. Duke recognized that alternative treatments work and so they developed this program. This is SO exciting! We have one of these Duke trained doctors in our area and she is called an Integrationist. She was first an Internist and then went back to Duke and is certified in Eastern medicine, herbs, etc. This is an option for patients who would not seek alternatives outside of the medical community.
I have had some training in alternative medicine using kinesiology and treat my family and friends with essential oils and have successfully treated 2 family members for cancer with only oils. My husband and I use EO for any ailment we may have.
Chemo is a death sentence because it makes the body extremely acid and it cannot be reversed. Cancer cannot grow in an alkaline body so the key to remaining cancer free in the first place it to keep the body alkaline. The acidity caused by chemo is what causes cancer to return again and again until the person dies from it. The web is full of info on acid/alkalinity in the body. Ones overall health will be very much improved just by doing this one thing. A huge cause of acidity and just bad health in America is diet sodas. It is extremely hard for me to get anyone to stop drinking them as they are addicted. Anytime I hear of some one who has chronic pain of any kind my first question is whether they drink diet sodas.
Hi Lana! Thank you for sharing that information about Duke. The more that get on the band wagon the faster change will come. And the good news is that we are making progress with traditional medicine because I first got interested in it years ago when I first had a gall bladder attack and had to go “to the library” to find anything to read about it. In some ways it is amazing how far we’ve come.
And good for you for learning methods that you are drawn to and are getting positive result. I have also heard of people who’ve had great results with essential oils. I agree that chemo is a poison and often very harmful for the body. Unfortunately, between the drug companies pushing and people’s desire for a “convenient” cure, far too many people choose that treatment. Until people are willing to take their own health into their own hands that won’t likely change real soon.
ANd YES! Both my husband I completely agree with you about the dangers of diet sodas. But again, many people don’t want to hear it. Little by little I am hopeful it will change. Thanks for all your thoughts on this. ~Kathy
I’m a big believer in going alternative. Integrative is the best way to handle serious illness, IMO….good post!
Hi Carol! AFter reading your blog for a while now I’m not surprised that you believe in Alternative Medicine. So much hope there right–and much more connected to the body and soul and traditional medicine. ~Kathy
Well, in all fairness I haven’t followed the blog for more than a few months, so maybe I’ve missed similar posts. It just seemed like a slight departure, and one I approve of mightily! Keep it coming!
Hmm, this seems outside your normal repertoire of subjects, but I find it fascinating. As I think you know, I had my two babies at home with midwives, which receives a shocking (to me) amount of incredulity from people who have never even considered doing it, don’t really know how it works, haven’t read the stats about out-of-hospital births around the world (very safe, much more common), and generally disparage the choice before becoming informed. I believe strongly in choice when it comes to our bodies, and though most people would SAY that they do, they often limit themselves by not availing themselves of what’s out there. That’s up to them, but it does confuse me a little.
Hi Sarah! Okay, hm……now you have me wondering WHY you don’t think this is one of my usual type explorations? 🙂 I just can’t help myself being curious about things and this one definitely snuck up on me after talking with both Richard and Sandy. And if I can point my finger at anything beyond the obvious with SMART Living, it is a strong desire to get people ask questions of themselves and come up with their own answers.
But no…for some reason I didn’t pick up that you had your babies with midwives. If I’d had kids I would have done it that way for sure. I think it is so much more gentle for children. Did you do it in water? That always made so much sense to me. Anyway, I’m not at all surprised that some people had a difficult time understanding why you did it. There was a lot more back story to this article about how other people perceive both Richard and Sandy (even though they are walking around, talking and obviously very healthy), other (sick) people who live right where we were staying won’t even try or go see either of these clinics to explore. I’m with you about the confusion. Good for you for being clear about what is important to you and then living that way. Congruency is SO-O-O important when it comes to issues like health and happiness. ~Kathy
**Ultimately, the best healings come when we arrive at a place of peace about our choices and know we did what we could with what we have**
This is true.
Life is entirely about finding that “Peace” in every single situation.
Another superb post, Kathy. xx
Hi Kim! I hope you know that I don’t think it’s always easy to “choose” but I do believe it is best that we stay as awake and aware as possible and then choose what falls within our own integrity to the best of our ability. And I also believe that when we do that, make our own choices as consciously as possible, we are perhaps more open and accepting to others to do the same. Again, not easy. But I so believe it’s important. Peace to you for sure! ~Kathy
I have watched a relative spend the past 20 plus years switching from one traditional treatment for depression to another without many positive results. At this point, I think he has pretty much given up on the idea that a doctor is going to help him. If he found an nontraditional treatment that he was enthusiastic about, I’d have a hard time finding a reason to discourage him.
Hi Mike! Thanks for stopping by SMART Living and sharing your thoughts on this. It’s difficult with other people, especially those we love and care about, because ultimately only they can decide what they are willing or not willing to do. I think in some ways it’s hard enough for us to decide for ourselves let alone others. But I am the type that if something isn’t working in one area, I keep searching and trying something as long as I can. I hope your relative doesn’t give up and eventually finds what he needs. ~Kathy
Interesting topic, Kathy!
I’ve never done anything as “exciting” as traveling out of the country, but I do have two “alternative treatment” stories. The first is my daughter. She was diagnosed with severe GERD when she was a week old, and by her first birthday she was on six medications. While the medicines kept her symptom-free, the acid reducers increased her chances of having osteoporosis later in life, decreased her absorption of nutrients and made it difficult for her to gain weight, and made her more susceptible to dehydration, which landed her in the hospital twice.
We stumbled on her “alternative” treatment accidentally. I was trying to lose weight, and went on a low-glycemic diet. I fed my daughter the same foods I ate, and she was able to go off of her meds! I later researched it, and found that a low carb/low glycemic diet is nearly 100% effective in treating GERD, in studies. And yet we get the meds pushed on us. She’s been off her meds for 4 years now and remains symptom free.
My other story is my own experience. For most of my life, I’ve had some rather major emotional challenges, and I have been unable to find any relief through traditional means–meds, psychotherapy, etc. It got to the point where I just accepted that this was who I was and that I would not be able to find peace. Then, a year and a half ago, I began working with a therapist who takes an “alternative” approach. Her degree is in psychology, but she works via e-mail and uses methodology that is very different from traditional methods. For those interested, she also takes a very spiritual approach. This has helped me so much and has led to some radical changes in my life experience. I’ve also learned that taking care of myself physically–exercising, taking relaxation breaks during the day, eating a high protein diet (protein increases serotonin production), and getting enough sleep has really kept my brain from getting squirrelly!
Wow, I wrote a novel! Great post, Kathy! 🙂
Hi Bethany! Thank you so much for sharing your examples of alternative healing. While my post shares dramatic examples, I think there are probably millions of other stories of cases like yours and your daughters that remind us that doctors don’t always know everything about how to heal. I do believe the majority of them mean well, but depending upon their age, their studies and their own interests, we get what we get. Plus let’s face it, most of them are so busy you are lucky if you get to talk to them for 10 or 15 minutes. What impressed me about both Sandy and Richard’s story was how they repeatedly talked about the one-on-one care they received by both clinics in all sorts of personal ways. They both talked about the personnel and doctors at the clinics as good friends who really cared. Now I know M.D.s here in the U.S. are sometimes that way, but honestly, with all the doctors I’ve had I don’t really consider any of them to be friends.
I’m so glad to hear that between your diet and your new counseling perspective life is going really well for you. And congratulations on getting that novel done. You’ll have to let us all know when it’s published! ~Kathy
Another fantastic subject, Kathy. I do think it’s imperative that you consider most paths in relation to our overall health. I’m certainly not big about drug solutions though they have their own set up recovery. My partner and i imagine the charge to the substitute solutions are far more palatable at the same time. Extremely fascinating subject matter! Many thanks, Kathy.
Hi Dane! Thanks for stopping by SMART Living and sharing your thoughts. As you say, sometimes drugs are necessary and I’ve been happy to have and use them! But if they do nothing but mask the symptom then we can get stuck in a rut and never heal. (not to mention become addicted!) As far as the costs go, most of the time if you have insurance alternative medicine doesn’t cover any of the treatments and that also creates decisions. Both Richard and Sandy financed their treatment out of their pocket, and while it would have cost more to go with western medicine (millions more actually) most of it was covered by insurance. (and in Richard’s case medicare) Unfortunately, I think there are some people who would rather by a new car than finance their healing–so that enters the equation. While I don’t want to judge other people’s choices, I do want to be VERY CLEAR about my own. I think that’s SMART! Thanks again for commenting. ~Kathy
Kathy, I have embraced alternative options when they fit my needs. Having said that I avoid western medicine unless necessary because I’ve been shown too many times the harm it has done to my body. One example would be a non-functioning kidney that was diagnosed when I was a year old. For 24 years I practically lived on antibiotics. Then I switched to a vegan diet and stopped having problems with the kidney. Yet no doctor told me I could heal from food.
I think we are too quick to follow the doctors orders and swallow a pill without asking or researching the underlying triggers for this illness.
Hi Lois! Nice to hear from you! You are always so sensible about things that I’m not at all surprised to hear that you’ve tried certain alternative methods when it seemed right. And isn’t it amazing that until somewhat recently, doctors never ever mentioned food when it came to our health? I’m not surprised that you were subjected to drugs but they didn’t suggest you eat better.
Anytime people look for the “quick fix” they seldom get the best result. I think there is a place for both but we need to stay awake and aware. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this. ~Kathy
Hi Kathy,
The stories of two persons who tried a second opinion and alternative medicine make an interesting reading. It is at times quite scary as there is no proven research to back such a treatment but I agree with the general opinion that the choice lies in the hands of the person who is suffering. In the case of Richard, it was justified as he had no better choice and couldn’t have lost much. But in cancer cases it becomes quite risky to place yourself in the hands of such a person!
It also depends on your faith, which is said to have a tremendous healing power. If a patient believes he would be healed, the chances of getting well shoot up to 50%. In the east, Reiki is based on faith, it is a spiritual and vibrational healing but is viewed with scepticism by many people. It is described as a complementary and alternative medicine practice, said to benefit many people.
Thanks for an excellent post on such a challenging topic.
Hi Balroop! I actually read quite a few articles pro and con about different alternative healing methods and was amazed at how many times “western medicine” chooses to discount or avoid alternative methods of healing. And yet if you read some of the stats, it shows that while traditional medicine does really well at some thing (like fixing broken bones or taking out gall bladders) the records for some things aren’t as great as we all would hope. This website: http://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/all.html#survival shares that on average only 66.1% of ALL cancer types survive 5 years. And in some cases those 5 years with all the treatment might be very unpleasant–so even though they statistically are alive, they might wish they weren’t. What I read convinced me that if you do decide to go with western medicine you had best find an expert in your condition, get a second opinion and then do your homework.
And yes, Reiki is definitely an “alternative” as far as western medicine is concerned by I know people who swear by it. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this! ~Kathy
Oh I agree! And even though I might respect a person’s decision, as described above, it doesn’t mean that I don’t (sometimes) also quietly judge that decision as being selfish. Just because she was ready to meet her maker doesn’t mean others in her life were ready to lose her. At the end of the day though…a choice that is owned by the individual.
Definitely take you up on that offer to discuss over wine, Kathy!
Another excellent topic, Kathy. I think it’s important to consider all avenues when it comes to our health. I’m not big on drug solutions although they have their place in healing. I imagine the cost for the alternative therapies are much more palatable as well. Very interesting subject! Thanks, Kathy.
Hi Lisa! Glad you thought this topic was as interesting as I do–I just can’t help myself! 🙂 Interestingly enough many of the treatments I mentioned at both the Ensenada Health and Wellness Center and Soniviv are not cheap. Of course if something similar were offered in the U.S. it would be astronomically expense. I think Richard said his treatment was around $10,000–and no insurance of course. I think Soniviv is even more although Sandy never told me. And I did talk to a woman who works at Soniviv and she was saying they have actually had some luck with getting 50-70% of the cost covered by U.S. Insurance companies. She said the worst part was waiting for approvals which can easily take 6 months or more. But I guess Insurance companies are realizing that the cost benefits of holistic healing are often dramatically less expensive than western medicine. Chemo can cost insurance companies MILLIONS! All interesting and lots to think about and process. ~Kathy
That’s a great point, Kathy. Sometimes people willfully choose the path not because it’s the better method for treatment but because, as you say, they’re ready to go. I have a lot of respect for that, actually.
What I have less respect for is those situations where it’s apparent the choice is based on willful ignorance (ie choosing to ignore all options or dismissing some options) whether it’s because of deep seated beliefs, or just general disdain for something outside the ‘norm’.
Great, thought-provoking, piece.
Hmmmm…but don’t you think that some lines are pretty fuzzy? Jimmy Buffett has a song with a line that says, “there’s a fine line between Saturday night and Sunday morning!” I think this sort of applies. For example….a mother in my family (not mine!) refused to get treatment for her diabetes because she was ready to go to her “savior.” From my perspective that was her choice but it could be considered “willful ignorance?” But even then, who am I to say she didn’t have that right–even if I consider it woefully ignorant? At her age she was the only one who had to “live” with the decision. Unfortunately, when there are young children involved or others who are dependent it can seem harsh.
Definitely a deep subject that we could take in all sorts of directions. Probably more fun over a glass of wine! 🙂 ~Kathy
Hi Kathy. This is a great subject and a very interesting conversation. I know people on both sides who have lived and those on both sides who have died. I think you are right that we need to just go with what feels right for our beliefs.
I have just finished training as a Holistic Nutritionist and Personal Trainer and I specialized in chronic illness for both. There is just so much you can do to change your own prognosis for illness and as a preventative measure it is inexpensive and simple. When disease takes hold it is more challenging and very unique to the individual’s unique biology but it is really possible to make a difference still.
Great post!
Hi Kelly! Congratulations on your training and the path it will take you on. Plus I hope you write more about it on your own blog because I think people need to hear about it in ways that isn’t just trying to sell or convince someone that it is a valid way to go. I think people are always a bit suspicious when they see the person who is “selling” the treatment suggesting or making promises that it is the only way to go. Sometimes it is, sometimes not. But people need to know their options so they can then decide what will work best for them. So much of good health is good eating and good life skills. I’m sure you will be helping LOTS of us make better choices for ourselves. ~Kathy
I agree w/my fellow commenters. I don’t think the answers are ever a given. But I’d never hesitate to try something new.
I started with acupuncture, which over 10 years ago WAS alternative in many ways. And it was a huge help for foot pain that I had been living with for too long. I really need to get to regular appointments again, just for my health and well-being. Thanks for this post and all the sharing your friends have done here.
Hi Andrea! Thanks for stopping by SMART Living and sharing your thoughts. Yes, isn’t it funny how acupuncture and chiropractic adjustments are still considered “alternative”–even yoga or meditation? I get how traditional medicine is attempting to validate it’s work and progress through rigorous scientific study and research, but anything that doesn’t have the same funding or focus gets ignored–and some of that is equally valuable and deserves to be known. Ultimately we all have to make those choices and stay open enough to explore our options. Thanks for coming by and sharing your story about acupuncture. ~Kathy
The most telling statistic I’ve read is that more than 80% of physicians would decline aggressive chemotherapy if they were diagnosed with cancer. I think that says it all. In this country we are way behind the curve in medical treatments that have thousands of years of practice–energy healing, for one, and so many others. Our system tends toward cut and chemicals. I believe in alternative medicine and wish there were more integrative efforts. Not in my life time, but maybe this century.
Hi Carol, Yes I too read that about chemotherapy, although there are a number of resources that cast doubt on that statement too, so I didn’t include it in this post. BUT, what I did find fascinating about Chemo is how many chemo experts said that many of the doctors who use it aren’t really qualified AND how it frequently doesn’t work for a bunch of different kinds of cancer. But they give it anyway–and often much too soon–because people come in begging to be healed and they have no other treatment available (at least that fit into their arsenal.) I don’t think we can solely blame the medical field because we’ve all seen examples of how people don’t want to take responsibility for their own health–they just want to be healed. But it clearly isn’t that cut-and-dried an issue.
I tend to think of illness as a wake up call for change. And as we all know, change can be the last thing some people want to do. But I do believe it is changing. Dr. Hino himself said that a Cancer Healing Center is being planned for him in Ensenada and ALL of the funding is coming from American money. ~Kathy
I love this post, Kathy. I don’t think all the answers exist in Western medicine, not do I believe all the answers exist in alternative therapies. But taking responsibility for our own health and opening up to the possibility of all forms of healing is just smart in my opinion.
Hi Nancy! Yes! You definitely captured my intent with this post. We all have to decide for ourselves and then LIVE (or not) with that decision. I just found it so fascinating that Sandy’s mom (not her real name by the way) would not even consider an alternative approach, even though she witnessed her own daughter being cured of a brain tumor. In the end, I think we chose our options based on so much more than just whether we think a treatment will heal us or not. In the case of both my own mother, and Thom’s mom too, I think they were both ready to leave and just went with the easiest exit route they could find. No judgement, just very probable from conversations with them. I tend to like to get to the bottom of things so I raised the question.
And thanks for recognizing how SMART it is to take responsibility for our choices! ~Kathy
First thing…Ensenada is beautiful! As to alternative medicine, I do think there are a lot of snake salesmen out there so you really have to be careful. I have heard of professional ball players going to other countries to do stem cell therapy because it is not allowed here, and the results are pretty amazing. I have to say that I do not discount alternative medicine. (When I saw the title, I assumed chiropractor/acupuncture/naturopathy/etc). It seems like western medicine is mainly geared towards fixing a problem by prescribing medicine or doing surgery and often ignores the root causes of the problem.
Hi Andrew! I’m a little partial to Rosario myself but yes to Baja for sure. Have you ever made it out to wine country just east of Ensenada? Great wine, pretty country and great food too.
I think what you say about western medicine geared toward “fixing a problem” while often alternative medicines and therapies focus more on prevention. That’s why I like the quote in the post that suggests that many people try alternatives because it fits their philosophy on many levels. I personally think that there should be a place for both types in our quest or good health. But that’s just MY perspective. I think everyone needs to come up with their own. Thanks for your comment! ~Kathy
I definitely believe in alternative medicine. I’ve lost too many wonderful friends and family members this past year and wish some of them could have taken the chance. Or even at the advantage.
Hi Janie! Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this. I’m the first to admit that there isn’t an easy answer but I have seen–with my own two eyes–how it can have a happy outcome. Of course I’m sure that there are a failures in the alternative medicine field as well. Another example that I didn’t mention in the post was a guy who received stem cell treatment for Parkinsons. Dr. Hino told Richard (who referred the guy) that it would not cure Parkinsons but that it should stop the symptoms (shaking hands, etc.) which it apparently did. Unfortunately the same man died about a year after his treatment of a heart attack. I tend to believe that when it is our time to go, it’s our time to go, so maybe it doesn’t matter. But I do believe that we can ALWAYS choose easier (and less painful) routes to do it than others. Thanks again for your comment. ~Kathy