Giving Thanks

When you rise in the morning, give thanks for the light, for your life, for your strength. Give thanks for your food and for the joy of living. If you see no reason to give thanks, the fault lies in yourself. - Tecumseh

Doctors have arguably the most important jobs in the world, but there aren’t always enough doctors for everyone. My doctor is named Dr. Misra, and without her, I could have serious health problems. I have a genetic disorder called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1 (MEN1 for short). MEN1 gives those affected by it tumors on the pituitary gland, pancreas and parathyroids. Most of these tumors are benign, but some can be harmful. For example: my Mom had much of her pancreas removed and my Sister had most of her parathyroids removed because they had a tumor on them producing too much calcium which can potentially cause kidney stones. I will most likely have to get both of the procedures done as well. Dr. Misra is an endocrinologist, she runs tests on us like MRI's, blood tests and urine samples. These are normally a huge hassle because my siblings and I have to wake up really early to go into Boston for all different types of check-ups and tests, but I know how important it is to keep the doctors up to date on our condition. Without these essential visits the MEN1 could be life threatening. She also told us that there is a fifty percent chance that it gets passed on to our children so it was pretty unlucky that all three of us got it when only my Mom has it. Although this disorder is extremely rare I can’t imagine what it would be like if someone didn’t have good health insurance and couldn’t treat it. I’m extremely thankful that my Dad works so hard and long every day so that we afford such great health insurance. I’m extremely lucky to have parents who are so knowledgable and hardworking. With so many people who care and look out for me this disease can be just a few surgeries and a lot of visits to the Doctor, and I am so thankful that I have those people in my life.