Seems that maybe DocJohn should have a "none of the above," LOL. It's OK, DocJ, I like Neurotalk just fine.

A comment on the issue of whether or not we're choosing a too-similar name, I think we're not. After Henry Ford began manufacturing automobiles by means of an assembly line, eventually Chrysler Motors, General Motors, the British Motor Works, and so forth, joined in and did the same. No one seems to mind that so many of them have the word "Motor" in their names; it signals what's being offered to potential customers. Too, no one feels they must always buy Fords because their first car was a Ford, or worries that Henry will turn over in his grave from the insult. Cars have gotten awfully popular, more popular than Henry dreamed or could provide for. (Note also that a too-generic name such as "mechanicals"--or "medical"--would mislead by nonspecificity.) Thus the industry has grown for the "benefit" of all, without a Ford monopoly.

The outstanding innovation brought via internet through MGH Neurological Forums, PLWP, and presumably others as well, was the practice of Patients as Providers. We provide health care for each other in the areas where we can, and as consumers of same, our health can improve. Now that people realize what the internet can do, I see no reason not to let the concept expand and grow. It could be that some day people could enroll in the Peer Participant Prop-up Program and become certified hand-holders, for all I know, but the idea is: peer support to provide aspects of medical care is not happening only on one website, it's a whole movement.

Which site will we focus on when BT1 comes back--as so many are wondering--I don't see that we have to choose now or ever. Trust is earned by the trusted, not bestowed by the hopeful, and it takes time both to earn it and to earn it back. We shall see. With open minds and hearts, who knows what we can do?

JMHO,
Jaye