We are expecting a lot from MJFF. They are funding many studies and always looking for more ways to do it. In one of Michael's interviews, he asked, 'Who is Responsible for the Cure? And his conclusion is "we are." He didn't define we, but we know it includes them.

I don't know if MJFF will find the cure. But i do know he is looking for it. Some orgs aren't. They have different focuses. I hold medical researchers responsible to a large extent for the many hit and misses we have had and here is why:

they are paid by pharmas
they do not admit mistakes
they exaggerate their findings
they publish the tiniest discovery as a breakthrough but won't publish trial data and results for two years
they do not treat patients fairly
I'm sure there are more..here they come:
they compete instead of collaborate
they discourage "getting close to the patient"
they have too much influence over what gets published

Of course I don't mean all medical researchers. I don't know what criteria gets medical researchers into prestigious positions like MJFF; but I think they have learned a lot about looking for innovation and are learning each year like anyone else.

The patients, however, are also learning. But we have to be worth money to get considered a serious resource in this process. Raising money takes creativity. So my challenge to the MJFF, is to find a way to make us worth money. They are getting big bucks to be creative - and they have an untapped resource.

When you've had it 20 years, holding back seems a little silly. It's not like I'm trying to get attention so I can be famous when i grow up. It's like Michael Kinsley said...."it's selfish to try to extend your life, but by all means do it". I am certainly done with the game of who collects the most toys.....had to drop out.

a determined baby boomer
paula

Yep Carey, how many times have I heard Peggy say that.