[alicem]

Now there is something that we can agree on! I definitely think that there is a connection between diet and cancer. I don't necessarily think that diet necessarily "causes" cancer, otherwise every obese person in america would be getting it. It more than likely exacerbates it though. If you are genetically predisposed towards cancer then your diet/exercise plan might just push you over the edge. As for me, I am suspicious of all the years I spent in the chemistry lab in the late 70's. I was a chemistry major myself, spent a year doing research. I shudder at the memories of spilling benzene or carbon tetrachloride on my skin and doing nothing about it because it just evaporated! I was more careful when it came to hydrochloric acid or sulphuric acid. UGH!!!!!!!!!!

I too have changed my eating habits. Six years ago I changed my exercise habits and I think that might have saved my life. I couldn't even run 100 yards without getting out of breath. Two years ago, I completed my first marathon. (The human body is amazing). I didn't run the whole way, but that is my next goal! I also absolutely love triathlons! Have done the Danskin 4 times, along with others. My youngest daughter did it for me this year since I was unable to due to my chemo.

I did have a good experience with the Italian healthcare system. In 1993, one of my daughters had an ear infection. The English speaking doctor where we lived made HOUSE CALLS!!! Imagine that. He was in and out in about 10 minutes. The charge to us was comparable to what we paid in the states. On another occasion, my husband went on a business trip to Grenoble, France towards the end of school. When the girls were finished with school for the year, we drove over to meet him from Milano. Half way there (a 4 1/2 hour drive), my 8 year old started complaining that she didn't feel well. I felt her forehead and she was burning up. Fortunately when we got there, there was an American family living there in a quaint little village just outside of Grenoble. I took her there that afternoon and the wife arranged for her doctor to see us, no need to wait. We walked down cobblestone streets to his building. (my daughter still remembers this!) He diagnosed her with strep throat. The only thing we had to pay for was the antibiotics. The office visit was free. I did feel fortunate because it was my husband's company that was paying our Italian taxes, so in a way, we didn't have to pay a thing either.

I envy you being in Italy. It is a fabulous country. Would go back there in a heartbeat!

Alice