When to change tracks? The Talk

[Kathy S in Tokyo]

Complementary, alternative, CHinese and naturopathic medicine are available here but not covered under the national health insurance plan other than a few Chinese herbal remedys that regular MDs often prescribe for allergies, menopause relief or a few other things. The same herbal remedies from an herbalist would not be covered. I can take reishi and shiitake supplements at 100% my cost and tell the doctor without risking loss of my medical care as they're considered a bit like vitamins and not treatment. So, I may ask how things might work out if I take a vitamin called Tykerb sent from home...

[Jackie07]

Kathy,

Having lived in Japan for 26 years, you know how to maneuver around their system. Japanese are generally strict, sticking to the rules - the no exception type. I remember vividly during a concert almost 30 years ago in the National Taiwan University Auditorium. I was with the University Choir hosting a visiting Japanese college (all male) choir. Their acappella were beautiful. I am sure you are familiar with 'Sakula', their national flower and the title of one of the songs.

During intermission, I noticed the amazing way young Japanese audience behaved. Whenever there were more than two people talking, the original two would step back and let the third, fourth...etc in and always maintained a perfect circle. And they never raised their voices. Of course these were mostly children of diplomats, missionaries, or business men from Japan. But I was just very, very impressed.

Glad to hear about the actions you are taking. Remember the power of prayers and the amazing power of positive thinking. I am sending love from Central Texas.

[ElaineM]

Kathy,
If you want to try Shitake and other mushrooms how about eating them in food rather than take expensive supplements? That way it is not considered a medicine.
I buy big bags of dried Shitake when they are on sale and buy the fresh ones when I can afford them. I soak the dried mushrooms in warm water before cooking with them. I also buy other things in food form that are considered medicinal like tumeric, ginger, garlic etc.
Maybe you can get some books on the subject at your local library or find some reliable internet resources on cancer and food.
Good luck on getting your doc to accept Tykerb as a vitamin. I hope you make it. Keep up the good work on the research etc.