What's The Fuss About Melissa E.

[IRENE FROM TAMPA]

I saw the Dateline interview with Melissa Etheridge and I do not really understand what all the fuss is about. I must say I did not see Oprah's.

She was telling her experience with "her" cancer and to tell you the truth, after listening to her, I realize how well I did with all of my treatments. Maybe it affected her differently. She never stated which chemo she was given, so can not compare, but she said she could not speak and was in bed most of the time feeling closer to death then ever. Given that this woman leads a pretty active life, it sounds like it really knocked her out for a while.

I appreciate listening to anyone's story that is going through this - we are all unique in what we experience and and the difference with the "stars" is that they can get the OH SO IMPORTANT message out there to everyone with just an interview. I watched the Tammy Faye Baker story and thought she was histerically funny. I laughed and cried with her story and could actually relate to alot of what she went through. I am not necessarily a big fan of either of these two - but we now share a common bond.

Sorry to go on for so long - just wanted to air my opinion and let you know that I respect yours also.

Take care

[sarah]

Everyone goes through chemo differently. Like you, I feel I was relatively lucky although I do feel as though I spent most of the time in bed!

Regarding Melissa E. I don't live in the US right now so I didn't see the show either but I am always glad when celebrities speak out about such things - it helps us all and perhpas her statements will help get working women more time off during treatment.

Also my husband and I worked on a charity film aimed at young people and she participated - no payment of any kind to her. She showed up for the filming alone, drove herself, sang her heart out and stayed as long as necessary and then graciously posed with all our crew members for photos. In this time of rampant selfishness and greed, she gave generously of her time. Very few of the celebrities used demanded much but she demanded absolutely nothing.

Like everyone with this disease, I wish her luck.
Sarah

[MCS]

Irene,

This is very important. It wasn't about the chemo treatment. And although I'm happy that you sailed through treatment, many of us are not or caring for others who are not. Before watching the show, some crap about Paris Hiton came on. Who cares about Paris Hilton when there are so many of us sick!!!!

This is why it's important!!!

awareness of disease

awareness brings fund raising

fund raising bring research

research brings health and survival

There are too many of us afflicted by this disease with loved ones and friends that want us around. Many of us that may not even get to read your comments tomorrow because too sick.

I'm sorry to disagree with you.

MCS

[Lolly]

MCS, I think you've misunderstood Irene's point of view. I think she was responding to the thread started by Tricia, "Melissa Etheridge as BC Spokeswoman".