Posted by maggie on May 16, 1999 at 05:57:21:
Dear Friends,
I don't know why I haven't considered this before - I guess this cursed affliction has affected my thought processes!!! I am seriously considering writing an article or two(!) for publication in the medical and nursing journals - primarily in UK (BMJ and Journal of Advanced Nursing as well as the more popular end of the journal market)) but hopefully in US (JAMA, American Journal of Nursing etc) publications too. I am a nursing academic and have been absolutely horrified and very dismayed at the lack of even the most basic knowledge and sometimes care/compassion within the medical and nursing professions here in UK since I developed clusters. Its high time that changed and the condition gets a much higher profile on the professional and public stages - I want to raise awareness and knowledge of the condition within the professions and debunk the mythology surrounding this cursed affliction. We are not chain smoking alcoholics of 'rugged' facial appearance, nor are we 'barking mad' To change opinion I need the help of my friends here on this board. Before I start working on a major piece of work, I need to know I can count on your support and patience - a study of this type needs time, energy and application. Also, in order to achieve 'academic' credibility (I know, who gives a damn about academic credibility?????) I need to develop a pretty sound methodology etc. Unfortunately, academic credibility is really important if we want doctors (especially) and nurses to take our situation seriously - and I do. Perhaps you would give me some indication of what you think of this idea and any ideas you have on what you see as the most important issues I should be attacking. I have to add that this masterpiece may take some considerable time to get into print, so it aint gonna be a nine day wonder.........more like 18-24 months. Please feel free to e-mail me at
m.davidson@herts.ac.uk
or post a reply here on the board. Wishing us all pain free, not just intermittently, but permanently..............hugs and thanks to all ............maggie