Brokaw

Tom Brokaw recently published an Op-Ed article in the New York Times, " Learning to Live With Cancer."

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/02/opinion/sunday/tom-brokaw-learning-to-live-with-cancer.html

Mr. Brokaw was diagnosed with multiple myeloma at the age of 73.  He wrote a book about his experience and has been a champion of cancer related charities ever since.  Every version of multiple myeloma is different but much of what he is still going through three years later is similar to the symptoms of others diagnosed with multiple myeloma and even those diagnosed with different versions of cancer.

The only part of his dialog that I can't accept is calling multiple myeloma incurable.  He also said the disease has a current patient lifespan of five years.  No doubt, his information is based on real data but I would argue that all data is old.  There are no statistics for individuals who were just diagnosed with this disease.  The statistics are not even out for those who picked up the disease three years ago. Simply put, they haven't died yet.  Those statistics are based on measuring death rates.

I respect Mr. Brokaw's writing.  He shared something deeply personal which can only result in more public awareness and hopefully help to advance a cure.  He has lived a life of truth and integrity.  He may be one of the most respected individuals in the country.

Mr. Brokaw said he is tempted to identify himself as a "Cancer Patient" as well a "Journalist."  I understand his changing identity but if I were to see him some day, I would encourage him to identify himself as a journalist and someone who may very well beat cancer.  Decades from now, when Mr. Brokaw eventually passes away, his part in the medical statistics will be that of a cured multiple myeloma patient.  I know that will be my role as well.