H1N1 and Cancer

Letter to the Editor;

With the focus of attention on H1N1 are we allowing care for those desparately ill to go to the bottom of today's priority list? It would seem so. 

I have a friend in need. The cancer is killing both of us. The cancer is killing my friend because of the disease. It is killing me because I am sitting here watching and listening to this friend who needs help but cannot access palliative care assistance. It seems that this patient has tried to access help without success. I believe there must be a healthcare provider somewhere in this province, who can exercise some form of a miracle and connect the dots. Out of privacy concerns I will not publicly provide this patient's personal information but what I do need is someone in the Vancouver area who has the authority, ability and willingness to help this patient. As a cancer survivour and friend, the best I can do is place a call for action. 

As a healthcare provider, you have the means to make it work. I will connect you. Please help because - we can and we must.

Sandi Pniauskas

sandipn@sympatico.ca

October 30, 2009