Tuesday November 29, 2011, 12:55 pm
Sheldon, this is appalling and I wish your son a swift recovery. Parents are usually the best person to know when their children are ill and what is helping.

My late brother nearly died because of asthma (he was one of the trial patients for ventolin by the doctor that developed it) , my friend's son also and my son has been incredibly ill with it. As they have got older the asthma has become more controllable. Many children out grow it so there is hope. Most certainly he will become stronger and better able to cope with and control the asthma.

Try UK sites for advice as these are not financially driven, many drugs are available on both sides of the pond and you can look up the American/UK translations for the names.

http://www.asthma.org.uk/
http://www.patient.co.uk/health/Asthma.htm
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Asthma/Pages/Treatment.aspx

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13690102 - UK doctors begin pioneering asthma treatment
http://www.saltcave.co.uk/ - A Natural (Drug-Free) Remedy for Asthma, Sinusitis, Hayfever and other Respiratory Illnesses

If you know the cause of the asthma then you can help at the source, get allergy testing. As you probably know, bed mites are a common cause and/or aggravating factor so hoover the mattress once a week and turn it or use a latex/latex topped mattress, a latex pillow or a protector over the mattress and pillow(s). Damp wipe instead of dusting, remove carpets and hoover regularly. A lot of people have responded to this even if there is another causal factor. Swimming helps with breathing, check diet for allergies, look at supplements and try looking at your son's diet. Many people are helped with a variety of illnesses when removing red meat, all meat, milk, wheat intolerance even food combining.

There are many diseases of the auto-immune system and some of their help sites may help you with suggestions.

I know that I am probably repeating information that you already know but sometimes it is a good idea to start from the beginning again.

G-d bless and I wish your son and you family a speedy resolution of this terrible problem. Please keep us posted.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 1:00 pm
wow, I'm so sorry to hear that, it might be the doctor's fault, but it also might be your son's reaction to the meds, I have asthma myself, and unfortunately it never goes away, it's untreatable, you just learn how to control it, when you get sick, it worsens to the point where he might have to go to the hospital. You should look into it though, because it is supposed to get better with time but not fully go away

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 1:08 pm
I'm really sorry to read this, and I wish you and your son the best! Noted, of course.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 1:21 pm
read, noted and shared. thank you Sheldon!

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 1:33 pm
Noted.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 1:42 pm
Noted, Albuterol 6 times a day? It supposed to be once every 4 to 6 hours, and if you take at night it keeps you awake. I had asthma when younger and it's no fun to live with, but I can't really offer any advice, Best of luck.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 1:47 pm
I'm very sad for you Sheldon, and I hope for the best for your son. If I recall you had a brother who was also abused by the medical system. We all have to be our best advocates in this Country for we are nothing to the Powers to be but guinea pigs and they will make money off of us one way or another until we die. Even our social security number is traded on Wall St., us, as a human being. We are a number to them, not a human being anymore. In their eyes, they figure they win some and loose some. What the phamacutical company doesn't make off of the person then the funeral industry will. We live in a sick sick society now controlled by a few at the expense of the many. Join your local Occupy Movement.....we will only change things by rising up in large numbers.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 2:57 pm
Good luck, Sheldon. Keep supporting your son emotionally and keep being aware of his medical treatment so that you can instantly respond if you need too.Being diligent is our best defense against incompetency.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 2:59 pm
Noted- will post this in the Human Rights group Sheldon

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 3:04 pm
Thank you all for your support, I'm in deep prayer concerning this matter. God will have his say regarding the outcome of this terrible situation.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 3:05 pm
Thanks Nyack, for your support!!

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 3:16 pm
Hi Sheldon, I appreciate your kind comments concerning my postings. I am concerned to hear of your son's problems. I share your misgivings concerning the inappropriate prescription of medications. However, not being a medical professional myself, I would join the other posters and urge you to try and obtain a second professional opinion. I understand exactly what it is like to have concerns for your children and to assure yourself that you are doing your best for them. You sound to me as if you are a very concerned and sensible father and doing your very best for him. I wish you and your son every good luck and a speedy recovery from his repeated hospitalisations.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 3:37 pm
I hesitate to weigh in on a medical matter I have so little knowledge of. However, while I respect the medical profession in general, they sometimes suffer from hubris. Unnecessary, ineffective and invasive medical intervention killed my grandmother. I have seen members of my family so overdosed with medication that they couldn't even cry at movies. So, by all means, seek further opinions. Medicine is a miracle but not all doctors are saints.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 3:46 pm
Thanks Sheldon

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 3:50 pm
Best wishes, Sheldon. I also lack the medical knowledge to know exactly what was going on with your son, but I have seen the tendency of many doctors to over-medicate, and to not listen to the very real concerns of family members and patients. I would agree with the above posts; please get a second opinion.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 4:22 pm
As a parent, you have to do what you feel is in the best interest of your child.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 4:38 pm
i cannot begin to imagine how painful it must be as a parent to see your child so sick.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 5:14 pm
Asthma is no laughing matter. It's like a fish out of water and not just a common cold issue and needs to be taken seriously. Having an asthma attack could be ones last breath.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 6:07 pm
That's completely horrible. My cousin had childhood asthma and spent so much time in the hospital for it and his parents spent most of the time fighting the doctors about medication. Wishing your son a speedy recovery.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 6:12 pm
Thanks.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 7:06 pm
Thank you Sheldon for posting your son's story. I feel great compassion for both you and your son. I do have asthma, and the time I was hospitalized, they gave me so many drugs that even one of the doctors was appalled. One drug they did try to give I refused to take because it contained the drug salmuterol This drug is known for fatalities, infact in one year, 5000 people had died from asthma related deaths, of which 4000 of those deaths were related to the drug salmuterol. It causes instant inflammation in the lungs. This drug, also called by other names, also causes people to be at a higher susceptibility to respiratory infections. I now use Acupuncture and alternative medicine, and eliminated all the drugs shortly after they were prescribed except an inhaler when I need it. I too suffered from terrible side effects from one drug called singulair. NIGHTMARE. I have used acupuncture with great success, and encourage any one with asthma to find a good liscensed acupuncturist and try this route.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 7:40 pm
good luck to you and your son....getting additional opinions is always good...and should be your right....we need to take the profit out of medicine ASAP.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 8:16 pm
I wish you all the best.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 8:19 pm
Thank you Constance for your comment. My son too suffered severe side effects from singulair, we had to take him off that drug because of its harmful effects.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 9:54 pm

I do not know much about asthma, but I would surely get a second & possibly third opinion from other doctors. These doctors do not appear to be too competent in their professional dealings in regards to your son's best interest! Asthma is life threatening, if you can't breath, you die! My prayers go out to your family & sending Healing Light & Love to your son. I light a candle for Sheldon Junior on Care2 candle site. Here is the link if any one else wish to do the same. Candle Site

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 10:29 pm
I've been doing a lot of praying and research on the best ways to deal with asthma, and I realize since the doctors put him on a lot of drugs that suppresses his immune system, which in turn leave him open to respiratory infections which seems to be the root cause and trigger for his asthma attacks.

Right now I discovered that Vitamin D3 is very helpful with kids with asthma because a vast majority of kids sick like my son has a severe deficiency in vitamin D3.

It does wonders for the immune system and it also strengthen the bones which my son suffers weakness in his joints and bones from those injurious pharmaceuticals.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 10:31 pm
Thanks again for all your support, and I'm open to any advice as I'm in a very humbled state right now. Everything I do, I'm taking it in prayer before God.

Tuesday November 29, 2011, 10:55 pm
Sheldon, I had asthma as a child, but only very mild forms and I can only imagine the sort of trauma this is causing, particularly from people who are supposed to be helping. I am in awe of you, your resiliance, your determination and strength in your love for your son. I pray for his swift recovery and think he is learning valuable lessons from his father. Thank you for sharing this difficult story. My understanding of treatment in any illness is to be an involved consumer and seek other treatment until you find a treatment team you can trust.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 12:51 am
Dear Sheldon, I share your concern about doctors being too quick to come to conclusions and set you on a lifelong dependancy of their services.
I, too, recommend an independant doctor in another city for a third opinion. Im also fully trust in natural remedies and careful and watchfull intake of food. I warmly recommend this book, in which you will find a large chapter on asthma, foods that can trigger attacks and food recommended to avoid such attacks : http://www.amazon.com/Foods-That-Harm-Heal-Healthy/dp/0895779129
You will find an important list of food to avoid that are surely part of your boys menue such as milk, eggs, cereals and peanuts. Do get the book . kind regards and wishes for the best.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 1:12 am
'Clinical research shows that THC acts as a bronchial dilator, clearing blocked air passageways and allowing free breathing. In one study, marijuana, “caused an immediate reversal of exercise-induced asthma and hyperinflation.” Numerous cases of asthma have been treated successfully with both natural and synthetic THC. In one report, a young woman used marijuana with her doctor’s approval. Over the course of several years her attacks were almost completely cured with low doses of inhaled cannabis smoke.'

CANNABIS and ASTHMA

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 1:20 am
Hi Sheldon,

Good luck! I hope he never has to go through illness so horrible again, and that is not just an idle "I wish": In every case I have seen, asthma attacks and related illnesses became drastically less frequent and less severe after childhood. (In at least one it went from often life-threatening to just a nuisance.)

Regarding the case, I'm familiar with asthma and a few of the drugs you mentioned (thankfully not from first-hand experience). The primary problem is that asthma is an inflammatory disease, and inflammation is also part of the body's immune-response. It is meant to flush the area and clear out infections, decreasing the concentration of pathogens and allowing the whole body's immune-system to address them. Any anti-inflammatory at all will therefore weaken the immune-system, aside, I think, from creams which are rubbed directly on the inflammation. Unfortunately that cannot be done effectively inside the throat. Just to make matters worse, the diseases associated with asthma, I understand, tend to be local infections in the lungs or bronchi (bronchitis or pneumonia). Those are exactly the kind that small amounts of inflammation can help fight off, so just about every other illness driven by asthma is made worse by asthma-medication.

If your son had that much Prednesone and was not bouncing off the walls or going manic, he was very sick. If I'm thinking of the right drug, it works as an extreme stimulant and is used to reverse muscular atrophy following long periods of being bedridden. It is also a strong anti-inflammatory. On the other hand, it is so powerful an immune-suppressant that it is used when one is necessary (like after organ-donation). As a stimulant, it can treat the symptoms of a lot of diseases without actually eliminating the disease. That might have been why they continued treatment after he seemed to recover: They didn't know if he was better or if it was just the Prednisone.

It looks to me like they were treating the asthma in the hopes that without it, even with a partially suppressed immune-system he would fight it off. It sounds to me like with that strategy, they should have experimented with antibiotics until they found one that would effectively supplement the immune-system and kill the pneumonia. On the other hand, if the pneumonia was the major problem and not the asthma, taking him off the medication temporarily or reducing his dosage might have been the right things to do, to let it address the pneumonia before it got worse as they searched for the right antibiotic for the strain of pathogen. Given his history of needing the hospital for complicating diseases and not just the asthma itself, I'm not a doctor but I think there is a very good argument that what you did was absolutely right. Without a definite indication that it would harm and not help your son, I think they were way out of line in trying to take legal control of the case from you and his mother.

Regarding whether the drugs could have given him asthma six years ago, it seems unlikely. Five years is apparently an age at which asthma is often detected. Environmental factors have been shown to correlate with asthma, but those were restriction to super-clean environments as an infant, preventing adaptation and the growth of a rugged respiratory tract. I suppose if the infection or drugs did permanent damage to the trachea then that might have left it prone to inflammation.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 1:31 am
Noted...Sheldon, I left a comment for you, underneath the letter you had written, so you can read more there...but I'm with you 100% I have a couple close family members in the Medical Fields, amd I was told that there are a lot of Doctors paid pretty big bucks, by the drug companies, to push their drugs, on people with the illnesses people have, that they make drugs for...Sounds likewhat you said in your article, treated as a business, not a patient, who's sick and needs care...I wish you all the best and that you can get the results your looking and hoping for...

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 2:13 am
Your son is lucky that you were his advocate! so many times doctors are so eager to push medicine down our throat without thinking (except maybe of their kickback)!

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 2:34 am
Sheldon - thankyou so much for sharing your problem regarding your son's medical condition. We feel that you did the right thing for your child - it is your perogative to have a second opinion if you wish. The asthma is very likely as a result of the mismangement of young Sheldon's pneumonia - and the drugs have contributed to exacerbating his problem. Stick to your guns and get the care and respect you and your son deserve. Do not give in to the bullying from these so called 'specialists and doctors' who make big bucks from pushing these drugs onto us. We - Edward and I - have always gone with alternative medicines wherever possible - but sometimes we do need antibiotics and when we take these - we also take alternatives to combat the detrimental effects of them. We wish you well and to your little boy - good health in the days ahead. Our prayers are with you.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 2:55 am
Thank you all again for your comments its very helpful.
Xil, I will look for that book, thanks a million.
Michael, I hear you loud and clear. Thanks!

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 3:23 am
noted

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 4:13 am
Very sorry to see your story Sheldon and I pray that your son will be healed in the name of Jesus and that you and anyone treating him will have wisdom from God to know what to do.

Getting another medical opinion would be a good idea. I'd caution on taking up some of the alternative diagnosis or methods mentioned here without independently checking them out but to get some independent medical advice from someone without a preferred treatment they would recommend.

Also I know you're in totally the wrong part of the US for this but I recommend http://www.ibethel.org/healing-rooms-ministry, perhaps you could skype with them? I have been to conferences run by people from here and have seen amazing healing by the power of God.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 4:27 am
Sheldon, I admire and respect your love and determination to do whatever is best for your son. I agree, seek a 2nd opinion, do as much of your research as possible, and everyone will pray for a full and speedy recovery for your son.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 4:38 am

Noted & Shared too!

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 4:53 am
Thanks for the article.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 5:04 am
Sheldon - I am disturbed that they conveyed to your son's mother that "he would be taken away from her if she doesn’t comply with their pharmaceutical action plan for my son Sheldon Johnson asthmatic condition and held them *hostage* in the hospital for an additional 2 days without any due process of the law and was force to sign papers by Children & Youth of Monroe County." I think it is time to get a lawyer Sheldon. To call Child Services because you have the "gall" to question a physician regarding your son's treatment is extortion. This man has to be reported to the American Medical Association. His "God" complex needs to be brought down a notch.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 5:44 am
A clear violation of the Hippocratic oath!

It makes me wonder what the doctors are getting from Big Pharma to use their drugs.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 6:07 am
Sheldon - all of the comments above are great - my husband has had bronchitis all his life and pneumonia several times which has now turned into asthma - I know childhood asthma is worse - you have definitely done your research - I am impressed - your son is lucky - you mentioned about eugenics - yes - that is one thing that they are doing - also dumbing down our youth in particular -

Dandelion is correct - we are #'s not people - I am lucky I had a great MD. Though rare to find. Hospitals are now contacting Children Welfare if parents refuse treatment even though is our right - do tell them you are doing what they told you too and get a second or 3rd opinion. Will share - usually don't forward - but this is important - my prayers go out to you.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 6:13 am
Yes, Alicia, it is indeed very disturbing. The State was brought in to bully my son's mother into accepting their questionable treatment without any due process of the law and in doing so they grossly infringed upon our rights amongst other things. I'm currently trying to retain a Lawyer right now and is accepting referrals from anyone who know's an attorney that practice Law within the state of PA.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 6:14 am
Helloo Sheldon. Thank you for inviting me to comment and for your kind words about my previous posts.

As you know, I am no fan of unproven "alternative" medicine. Nor am I a believer, indeed I'm an atheist. This makes it rather difficult to comment on your experiences and the treatment given to your son and even more so as I am not a healthcare professional.

I do so worry that your religious beliefs may be colouring your view of things. I also worry that you are picking up information from trash sites which, when challenged cannot ever substantiate their assertions.

I believe that, in the main, Big Pharma could do more, that it is profit-driven, but that it is an indispensible part of our society which has done far more good than harm.

I also believe that it is not drugs or vaccinations that are causing reported increases in certain conditions in children, but the mad and obsessive mania to keep kids clean and away from dirt and "germs". I think that sterilising everything inhibits young immune systems from developing. I would also argue that definitions have changed over the years, such that children who would never have fallen in certain categories in the past do so now.

This doesn't help you in your present situation. I can make no suggestions, I'm afraid.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 6:15 am
Also it's interesting to note that the Physicians entered false testimonial about myself and his mother and they also lied about his condition the night before he was to be release.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 6:19 am
They also didn't find it was necessary to tell us he had pneumonia which is a documented adverse effect of one of the steroids he was on. We had to find out upon reviewing his discharge record. Also that is where we discovered false testimonial about us in the fine print of the 8 page discharge sheet he was released on.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 6:24 am
Lastly, one of the nurses that worked in Lehigh Valley Hospital PICU informed us that she didn't know why my son was intubated. As you can see there is a lot of questions that has to be answered and I'm waiting for anyone from the PA Community leaders or investigative agencies to contact me regarding this very serious matter.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 6:35 am
Another Question I beg to ask, Why didn't the Doctors bother to tell us that the medicines was shutting down his immune system and was leaving him open to all types of respiratory infections? All his many doctor visits and yearly hospital stay since he was 5 years old is associated with a respiratory infection which in turn triggers his asthma.

Where was hIs Immuno-support to counter the harmful effects of the medicines?

If they truly had his best interest at heart we would have been first properly educated about the meds and then he would had something to boost his immune system.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 6:44 am
That's why I entitled my story Asthma for profit because each hospital stay cost my insurance upwards to $100,000 +/-

And you have to wonder, what is the big secret about the harmful effects of the meds? My son had experience numerous side effects from those injurious Pharmaceuticals and all our cries for help fell upon deaf ears of his Physicians.

It's logical if you treat what cause the infection, there won't be a need for his many hospital visits for asthma thus resulting to loss revenue to the medical community. So, is it Asthma for profit?

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 7:11 am
Thank you. Unfortunately, there are people who will do anything for profit...

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 7:22 am
Sheldon, I applaud your diligence. I used to be very trusting of the medical profession. Now I am very wary. It is difficult to find a doctor who actually cares about their patients. I am positive many of them take money from the pharmasutical companies. Companies that are not at all interested in curing any ills, but in treating them for the rest of your life (at great profit to them). I am very sorry for the horrible things happening to your family and wish you the best of luck. Noted of course.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 7:26 am
Noted. Sheldon, I'm sorry you're having to face all this drama while you're having to care for your son. I believe these doctors were very unprofessional in their demeanor and handling of your son's case. I would really check with a lawyer, especially if they withheld information pertinent to your son's case, and necessary for you to make an informed desicion. You only mention the doctors as being general practice, a primary doc and a pulmonologist. You don't mention a specialist for his type of condition which in this case should be an Allergist/Autoimmune specialist. Your son needs to take an allergy test to find out if his asthma is extrinsic (due to allergies) or intrinsic (non-allergic) in order to better asses and treat his condition. Unfortunately, most autoimmune conditions, like asthma, are treated with very strong steroids like prednisone which can have very dangerous side effects, and can actually excerbate his condition. Inhalers can also be steroid based, but they're not supposed to have as many side effects. Still, most meds for asthma can make the condition worse, and can even bring on a severe asthma attacks. Read the information that comes with the meds; almost all have warnings of contraindications or the possibility of life threatening reactions. What doctors usually tell you is, as you've also mentioned, that "the benefits out weights the risks". They tend to tell you this if you question the treatment. Well, it's really up to YOU whether you want to accept those risks, and you can only make the proper decision, but only if you have all pertinent information of your son's case.
So, my advise to you is to first change doctors, and request (demand!) an allergy/autoimmune specialist, so there can be a proper assesment of your son's condition. If you have a problem being heard or you're treated with a lack of respect, make a complaint with your insurance company or your state's Department of Managed Health Care, as they can advocate for you to get the proper care for your son. Lastly, if all else fails, get a lawyer. If money is a concern, then find a lawyer from a legal clinic or ask you state's bar association for sliding fee referrals or Pro-Bono (free) referrals.
I really hope your son gets the proper care soon. I also suffer from asthma (extrinsic) and bronchitis, and I know how it feels to be sick and not get the proper care. The one positive that's on your side is that your son is very young, and he'll have a more rapid recovery time. Don't despair, instead use that energy to find an advocate to assist you in getting your son the proper care he needs.
I wish you good luck! Take care!

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 7:55 am
Thank you for sharing your alarming story. I wish you and your son all the best...and all those who are abused by the medical profession..in their allegiance with Big Pharma. My uncle was given Prednisone for asthma and was advised that it could effect his vision and his heart. It did both, and he died of heart failure. His asthma came late in life and it is my personal opinion that his attacks were brought on by stress...as was the case with a neighbor's son. In both cases the stress was emotional but certainly there are many environmental stresses that we are all subject to almost on a daily basis. One of the main problems with Rx drugs is that they treat the symptoms and not the cause and almost invariably cause more harm...leading to further medication to treat the side effects of the first drug.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 8:06 am
FOLLOW THE MONEY.

Sick patients are more profitable than healthy patients.

If big pharma could have it their way everyone would be sick, and giving most of their income to large health companies.

This is yet another reason why we need free health care in this country.


You cannot rely on private business to take care of society.

Private business is not for the people by the people. Private business is for the money by the company. Private business will take your money, and give you nothing in return whenever they can get away with it. See private health care for examples.

Huge government is great because as long as it is run properly it protects the people it represents from private business that will murder them for their money if they can get away with it.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 8:11 am
Your doctor does not always know best, and blissful ignorant trust in someone wearing a lab coat can be fatal.

If you have the slightest feeling that something might not be right FIGHT BACK by becoming informed.

I can directly relate to this as I was almost put on diabetes medication despite not being given any tests to show I had diabetes.

I refused to take the medication, and did my own glucose tests.

No surprise I didn't have diabetes, but would definitely have developed it if I had just blindly taken the medication like I was told.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 8:46 am
Sheldon, I highly recommend getting your son into Manhattan and seeing Dr. Richard Firshein (see links to websited below). He has written articles and books about child asthma and has an approach that is holistic with alternative therapies as well as drugs if appropriate. Dr. Firshein helped me tremendously about 15 years ago and he took me off all the medications that other doctors, who simply wanted to treat symptoms rather than the whole problem, had put me on that were actually making me much worse. I am sorry you and your family are going through this, but it took my own personal experience to realize not only that medicine is BIG BUSINESS, but that oftentimes doctor's are looking after themselves more than their patients. Good luck! My thoughts are with your son and the rest of your family.
http://www.drfirshein.com/aboutdrfirshein/
http://completewellbeing.com/users/richardfirshein/

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 9:15 am
I'm sorry that you all have had to go through this. I don't know much about medicine & I don't really know anything about asthma, but I myself & others that I've known have had bad experiences with doctors before. I've certainly had problems with doctors not telling me everything that I need to know about my condition, treatment or just what all they did to me, etc. I've learned that you should learn all you can when you yourself or a loved one has a medicial issue. You can't depend on doctors to tell you everything. Veterinarians are just as bad. Ask plenty of questions. I do believe that a friend was mine was once prescribed a high doseage of Prednisone & it made her crazy. Her mind wasn't right. She didn't care if she lived or died. She went to another doctor to see what was wrong with her mind & the other doctor couldn't believe that she was given such a high doseage of that & told her that the doseage was WAY too high. Also I believe that alot of things could be cured by certain herbs & stuff of that nature. Doctors don't want you to take stuff like that because the money is in the prescription medicine. Oh yeah, doctors love to drug you up. It's all about money. I think alot of doctors just look at patients as cash registers. Hopefully you'll get a good result from all this. I hope you have been writing all of this down so you can remember it & making copies of whatever you can. Good luck!!

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 10:14 am
So sorry to hear this Sheldon, hope your son recovers quickly

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 10:50 am
Sorry about your nightmare, but have faith that everything will be solved. Your son is not the first case.
My nephew suffered with asthma up to 11 years old and now after 9 years he is leading a normal life.
You are correct in hearing a second medical opinion. Who better than the parents to know what the child really feels?
There are other institutions around the world specializing in asthma, so look for other opinions and other types of medical treatments.
Do not let your child be a trial at the hands of irresponsible practitioners.
Doctors are not the owners of the truth. Doctors are human and therefore liable to make mistakes.
Go ahead, fight for your child and I pray that everything goes okay.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 10:50 am
thanks for telling the world

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 10:51 am
Sheldon,
Thanks for sharing this horrible tragedy. I recently heard a similar story on the CBS flagship stations WCBS-NY (TV out of NYC). As they cover the Allentown market I suggest you submit this to them as I believe they may be interested in the paralel to their story and the additional proof of such medical malfeasance. I'll also pass this along in several areas.

God bless you and your family.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 12:14 pm
Thanks for sharing this story. I wish your son all the best. Hope he may live a healthy life.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 12:51 pm
I appreciate your kind comments concerning my postings, all of the best for you and your son .Noted thank you Sheldon.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 1:29 pm
I noted this story yesterday with prayers of healing, and I find myself back here now reading more awesome advice and prayers being offered for you and your son.

what more can I add....

The air we breathe is full of pollutants..., the food we are supplied is saturated with toxins labeled as preservatives and additives with our soil becoming the same..., and the water we are given access is contaminated with chemicals that don't belong in the human body...

Perhaps these cause-and-effects had some good intent within the process, but it is the time of change. Each of us has control of only what we can change within our own lives...However, the ripple and unified efforts will reach out to ALL who embrace change.

I have had a lot of my own experiences with the medical and pharmeceutical industry, which prompted me to strongly embrace holistic and natural remedies. Again, perhaps there are some good intentions behind this insanity, but it is time for change. It is time to stop being guinea pigs for profit in the world of medicine. It is no wonder why the human immune-system is becoming weaker with the decades of exposure to chemicals, pollutants, and toxins.

I am sure there are some good physicians..., but there are some not-so-good ones, too.

Asthma for profit? Seems like a possibility to me, as I see the many diseases and cancers in the same light...

Keep listening to your heart, follow your gut, and continue to forgive as you move forward in your path of justice, awareness, and change. Blessings of healing and abundance to you and yours. Mahalo for all you do and may your efforts lead to positive change.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 1:32 pm
Sheldon, I am sorry you had to go through all that you have in the effort to get your son's asthma treated. I agree with other posts that the trigger for the asthma needs to be identified with allergy work-ups and a thorough and complete evaluation. I highly recommend seeking Functional, Integrative and Holistic Medicine for treatment. Navigating the "healthcare labyrinth" can be a major challenge. I would get advice from counsel on addressing the legal issues. I hope for the very best for your family as you continue.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 2:01 pm
I don't know. I'd need to know more and hear from the doctors. I have to wonder when someone starts out talking about "...Christian rights concerning the welfare of my son. (1 Corinthian 6:19, 20 - 2Corinthians 7:1 – Romans 12:1, 2 Mark 15:23)" Quoting biblical verses is rarely useful in treating medical conditions. "Every Doctor who ever treated my son Sheldon, disgrace their Hippocratic Oath by failing to prescribe proper Immuno –Care for my son Sheldon to fight the well documented side effects of the injurious pharmaceuticals they prescribe." REALLY? So how long have you studied medicine that you know better?

Having suffered with asthma as a youth myself, including several trips to the ER and hospital stays, my first thought upon hearing that the son stayed in the hospital for a week was that there was more going on than a severe asthma attack.

I know having a child with asthma is very difficult for parents (not to mention the child). They want SOMEONE to fix the problem but, it isn't that easy. My parents took me to several asthma/allergy specialists, often driving several hours, before they found one whose treatments seemed to help. I'm not really sure if they really helped "cure" me or if I just out-grew it but by my mid-20s I no longer needed medical intervention for the problem. If nothing else, the doctors helped keep me alive until then.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 2:27 pm
OMG....praying for you & your son, hoping he has a swift recovery! My mother & sister has been through the mill with doctors (my mother has asthma & both have Celiacs disease), so I understand your frustration & anger!

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 3:05 pm
Sheldon, my prayers are with your son and you
in this dangerous situation.
Doctors no longer cure, they only treat. If doctors cured a disease,
they would no longer have repeat business. Therefore, they are not
even taught to cure.
I have had asthma, and I now have advanced emphysema. There isn't a
great deal of difference between the two. Bottom line, I can't breathe.
The doctors don't care until they're hauled into court, which is what you need
to do with this bunch.
Sheldon, thank you for your kind comments to me, and again, you are in my prayers.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 3:13 pm
read, noted and shared; thank you Sheldon !

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 3:22 pm
thank you! om amarani giwen taye soha!

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 3:23 pm
oh my goodness

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 3:38 pm
Thx for the article and the opportunity to respond.'
Sheldon; I have been sick, very sick. I have asthma since I was 19. I have been hospitalized for pneumonia and asthma many times. A few times they begged me to stay cause they feared I would die and not because they wanted to push drugs on me for profit.
In my family we ahve, had and new genrations have asthma. Why I don't know. i have had steriods to stop attacks especailly nasal cause I found that what went on in the sinuses does effect my lungs.
Some people dismiss asthma as a non issue and esily fixable so don't used the E>R. They started their own business stating asthma is a easy non issue. I have heard of people dying and children dying from it.
Since I am a control freak- one of my visits i was asked have I ever been intubated for asthma.
They do this to keep you from getting into sudden death situation should your laboring to breathe bring you into a further crisis mode and your lungs collapse from laboring exhausion.
You lungs are not run like the rest of our body parts.One down turn was my fear is how well or good are they are intubating cause one can be intubated instead of lungs, the stomach. And that can be a life and death issue. But they have measures to make sure that breathing tube is in the right place.
It is scary not being able to breathe and fighting for your life. So I understand your desperation as a parent that I share my info. I have my own breathing equipment and medicines> I use my vaporizor when it is winter weather and germs or floating around. I reconize when an episode is coming, but sometimes i haven't and stayed at what I was doing. I have the thing that measures the ability at how much my breathing levels can produce and beileve me it is not much on a normal day but when a crisis is happening, I really am at death's door. I have learned to live within the disease as much as possible or as much as my body will allow me. I know my lungs are limited. I have gone to a specialist and worked a great job that I loved.
What i want also to share with you as well Sheldon; When drugs are advertised on T.V, they tell us about how they address an illness or a symptom and also it's side affects. They are have side affects by themselves and to each other. The meds i take have side affects and solve one problem and clash against another to bring on other problems. There are no easy answers, there are sadly no absolutes in life. We look to each other to be our saviors and maybe sometimes what we get is their best. there is not much out there in differnt asthma drugs all have side affects. My lung capacity puts me in dire straights in a crisis and the effort is to save my life. Sometimes the envelope is pushed cause the the abc's of life are airway, breathing and circulation are in crisis and collapse.
Our country; i had to learn has laws written about the responsibilities of care givers. when it comes to kids. The kids are our ours but the government has laid claims to our kids as well. remember child abuse and all of that, how they are required to report there suspicions. Sort of the same things. A crossroads for parents rights.
it may sound like i am 100% for medicine. I have had my issues but i understand alot. I am not trusting of anyone. i have shared a little to help you understand many areas about asthma as i have experienced it.
I have butt heads with people who don't want you to use the ER for asthma treatments to prevent death vs the healthcare costs it incurs. i am scared to use the now for that reason. My speciaist told me when I get into crisis to go. This person thing she had the cure to asthma set up shop on that dismissal of how asthma is not a big deal. I say it is. i have experienced it. They don't want us to have anything cause it cost too much. So I do the best I can with myself to keep myself alive. I like Steve Brians post cause it is most medically informative. I do trust you will consider all sides of this issue as you go forward. I have a sister who goes to the medical people and then finds fault each time she goes. Is is warranted? I don't know. But the thought with her is, why go? find your own cure since you find so much fault each and everytime. Some of the answers to things is explaining what it is you don't understand about medicine. I buy books and books of knowlege on medicines and alternitives for rememies and cure. So many books I give that knowlege away as gifts at christmas. Again thx for the opportunity to share. Sorry it is so long.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 3:55 pm
We must understand doctors are not GOD. We see and expect them to be GODs and all knowing. But they are educated and contiually educated to keep abreast of what locaally, nationally and world wide what is going on. I think the relationship between patient and dr is key and self education is also necessary along with learning your body and how it behaves as it pertains to you. That is easy for an adult but children are depended upon us. If you find drs are not listening to you find another one who will. Some post here offer where to go and I trust someone will come to aid you and your child in this crisis. But there are no absolutes to anything..

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 4:07 pm
I tried to post this morning but my computer is giving me fits. Your problem with your son's doctors must be awful and I wish you luck in your suit. In the meantime as others have said I hope you can find another opinion and get some help for him. There is nothing worse than seeing your child suffer. With the medical system run by the HMOs and drug companies constantly pushing them to prescribe new drugs,it doesn't seem that the patient is the first priority.It is just a business like any other and that is a big problem. Many doctors seem to have forgotten their Hippocratic oath. Good luck with everything. My heart goes out to you and your family.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 4:15 pm
Asthma can be very tricky. Good luck Sheldon, and I hope your son is well again soon.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 4:15 pm
another time i was looking like I would die; standard medicine was not getting me out of the crisis. I went door to door in my then neighborhood asking anyone if they knew of an old wives rememdy, that worked for them. I got one used it and it ended the crisis that time and my family was stunned. But you can't do that with kids. The government is their parent too. I will include you in my prayers. I'm finished for sure.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 4:16 pm
thanks so much for sharing your story, Sheldon. This is a very painful situation for you and your's. There should be a full work up on your son to find out what triggers the attacks and hopefully from there, it can be monitored. Some doctors are purely out for repeat business, but most with any ethics are not. God bless and you are in my prayers.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 4:22 pm
The love of BIG, HUGE MONEY is the root of all evil.

Best wishes. I am thankful that almost no one in my family has an asthma problem, only some mild allergies. My ex had it, but it seemed to pretty much go away a while after we moved to the NW. I do not know if that was just coincidence or what.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 4:40 pm
i saw your posts for 6 am something today; I am responding. Your immune system can be surpressed by an over load of pathegens that divide and multiply quicker than what the body can take down. Also treating with longterm atibiotics creates an environment for more resistant germs to present themselves againsts anti- biotics and a chore to treat. Ever heard of that? And when treating one problem an imbalance can take place causing fungus to grow and that is a problem. lying in the bedd to much can cause pneumonia and the hospital enviroment is a shared inviroment with other sick people and airborne germs pass from people to people. Sheldon all things are possible, even your son bouncing back from this another time. adr's should do a better job of how they portray themselves. They say we are partners with the patients and their families but alot of times they treat you like you are the enemy when you question them. I have been in that situation a time or two.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 5:14 pm
i have a question for all of you. If you or your love one was admitted in crisis of the abc's of life due to asthma and the only treatment is what it is and you don't agree with it but it is what it is; would you refuse it and still sue cause you died from lack of treatment. or if they did all they knew with prescribe treatments and saved your life but you didn't fully recover, would you sue them? What is it that we want? As I know it, there are no cures for everything. Medicine is lacking. I don't think they are interested in asthma to make money off of it. To be fair. i think asthma is much of what many of you have said-- tricky with many unknowns. Also I took pregnizone got me out of many crisis. The object is to breathe and live and be able to be functional. Later they make it hard to get any meds and you suffer with breathing, cause of what many of you say about side affects. How about living vses dying and having some quality of life. I'm just showing you the bottom line. What do you want?

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 8:49 pm
Sheldon I am so sorry to hear about all the trouble you and your son are having, I don't know much about Asthma but I do tend to think that some doctors try to over medicate at times and some of the side effects are very bad, I also believe that all the pollution in the air has cased a lot of children to have this problem, I know there is nothing worse then seeing your child suffer and I wish you and yours the best of luck and I hope that they can find out what is triggering these attacks, Prayers for you and yours.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 9:25 pm
Thank you all for your post, There are several key advice I found on here that I will definitely look into. I'm sure God will allow me to make the right decision regarding my son's health. Thanks again.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 9:33 pm
Wow, Sheldon, I am so sorry about your troubles with the medical system. The very people we are supposed to trust with our most valuble possession-life! I understand the difficulty you are having believing that doctors could not have your son's best interest at heart. I too have been injured byt the medical system as well as my daughter, who was crippled by a bad surgeon. Remember that in the world we live in today life doesnot have the value to those in power that money has. Drug companies buy and sell the congress and doctors are influenced by drug reps that barage them daily to push their drugs. Doctors are not trained to value alternative methods and are basically drug pushers. This is the state of some practicioners. In many cases they save lives, but in may others they do harm by utilizing drug concoctions that even they have no idea what they will do to people. Children have been overmedicated in many instances and I don't quite understand the thinking behind some of the drugs used on children. I do know that the pharmacist many times is your best source for the safe use of multiple meds. I have had my share of malpractice done to me and my daughter, but another dr. saved my son's life. We have to be aware and get second opinions, that was my mistake, I did not. Please do this for your son. I wish you the best and will remember you in my prayers.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 9:50 pm
And just to set the record straight. My son had recovered where he was breathing good on his own. I disagreed with the amount of harmful pharmaceuticals they wanted to discharge him with for maintaining his health. After all, he just keeps getting worse with their medication and that's a fact!

He experience a lot of adverse side effect associated with the medication that worsen his asthma condition. I think it would be WISE to get a second and third opinion while he's in good health and see what's the best treatment available to him.

It would be foolish to do otherwise. And let's not forget, if the Doctor's really had my son's best interest at heart, they would try to counter the harmful side effects of the medicine that brings on severe asthma attacks. Why did they hold back vital information from me and his mother concerning the well documented side effects the was relevant to my son's condition?

They just choose to stay deaf, dumb and blind every time we complained that he was getting worse. And I supposed to trust someone like that?

Please!

Knowledge is power, and we as a people cannot afford to be dumb down to Doctor's or Governments that try to bully us into something that's not right.

God empowers every parents to make the right choice for our kids and if we lose that important right in this country we are no better than any third world country out there in this world. But as for me and my family we shall serve Jehovah and do what is right.

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 10:35 pm
thanks for sharing this story

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 11:36 pm
So, Sheldon, that God you keep referencing, didn’t he put Cannabis on this earth for us to use? If science shows that Cannabis can benefit asthma sufferers, without the side effects of the current pharmaceuticals the doctors push, what does your God say about ignoring something that could help your son’s suffering? My advice to you would be to get a vaporizer (no smoke) and some high THC cannabis and see if it helps. What have you got to lose besides a laundry list of unpronounceable pharmaceuticals? If it was my son, I’d be trying everything on your God’s green earth to help with his suffering.

Seems that none of the commenters are willing to even consider this remedy, no matter the science behind it. I expected that someone would at least point out that cannabis is illegal. But then again, that’s a pretty weak argument if it stops suffering, isn’t it? Or express their outrage that I’d suggest that an 11 year old use cannabis. Read below about the dangers to African American children from Big Pharma's poisons, then tell me what you'd rather give an 11 year old.


Some Asthma Drugs Kill More People Than Asthma: Why Is Big Pharma Allowed to Hawk Deadly Pills?

‘Big Pharma has been accused of selling drugs that are so dangerous they cause death and drugs that cause the exact conditions they're supposed to treat. The popular asthma drugs Symbicort, Advair Diskus, Serevent Diskus, Dulera and Foradil do both and actually warn on their labels that they cause an increased "risk of death from asthma problems."

Big Pharma and the FDA have known for years that formoterol fumarate, found in Symbicort, Dulera and Foradil, and salmeterol, found in Advair Diskus and Serevent Diskus, can paradoxically cause asthma deaths, especially in children and African Americans. The FDA has heightened the warnings on the labels several times and convened several hearings about the drugs' safety, and some doctors have called for their complete ban.’

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 11:39 pm
Some Asthma Drugs Kill More People Than Asthma: Why Is Big Pharma Allowed to Hawk Deadly Pills?

Wednesday November 30, 2011, 11:49 pm
More than 15 million Americans are affected by asthma. Smoking cannabis (the “raw drug” as the AMA called it) would be beneficial for 80% of them and add 30-60 million person-years in the aggregate of extended life to current asthmatics over presently legal toxic medicines such as Theophylline prescribed to children.

How Big Pharma Distorts Science to Get FDA Approval for Dangerous Drugs

Thursday December 1, 2011, 12:42 am
I have had asthma all of my life. It really is a crippling disease. Big Pharma couldn't cure me then, nor can it cure me now (Just make lots of money lying to you)

Thursday December 1, 2011, 1:24 am
'The use of cannabis for asthmatics goes back thousands of years in literature. American doctors of the last century wrote in medical papers that asthma sufferers of the world would “bless” Indian Hemp (cannabis) all their lives.'

Nearly 100 comments, and noted 144 times. Am I the only one with this information?

Thursday December 1, 2011, 1:44 am
Smoking pot is NOT a good idea for asthmatics. It can severely plug the airways for many, and that's one reason I can't use it to address chronic pain. There are other forms of it other than smoking it, but that would be to address PAIN, not respiratory issues. Smoking it to address a respiratory situation makes little sense to me, and trust me, I'm very PRO legalizing pot for medicinal reasons. The best option for those with such issues is the newer "respirators" that are available. I know a few who have them, but again it's not used for respiratory issues, period and the respirators are used BECAUSE it's the only way it can be used without affecting the nostrils, the throat and the lungs. When you hear someone who has "smoked" go into coughing sprees and gasping for breath, it doesn't make much sense to advise it's use for respiratory issues. The coughing doesn't last long, but anyone suffering from asthma wouldn't want that happening even for 5 seconds.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 1:59 am
All the best for your son and your family dear Sheldon...noted and forwarded!

Thursday December 1, 2011, 2:03 am
You're not paying attention, Diane. I suggested a vaporizer. Did you read the studies? Mankind has been using cannabis to combat asthma going back at least a thousand years.

The Prohibitionists have driven that negative stigma so deep into the American
psyche that you won't even consider the science that proves it opens up the airways.

Clinical research shows that THC acts as a bronchial dilator, clearing blocked air passageways and allowing free breathing. In one study, marijuana, “caused an immediate reversal of exercise-induced asthma and hyperinflation.”Numerous cases of asthma have been treated successfully with both natural and synthetic THC. In one report, a young woman used marijuana with her doctor’s approval. Over the course of several years her attacks were almost completely cured with low doses of inhaled cannabis smoke.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 3:33 am
Medecine is big bussiness too, this should be stopped, but how......

Noted.

Good luck Sheldon, it's not going to be easy, but with the help you can gat from non-US (and maybe slightly less money-oriented) sites... stay alert, and don't believe all just "because the doctor told me so".

Thursday December 1, 2011, 4:02 am
Yes, I was paying attention. If a vaporizer was mentioned, yes, I missed that, but the bottom line STILL is that pot doesn't make things better for those with respiratory issues. The medicinal use is to address chronic pain.

Pastor Tim, "Doctors no longer cure, they only treat. If doctors cured a disease,
they would no longer have repeat business. Therefore, they are not
even taught to cure"..............doctors never were supposed to "cure" anything. Their job is to prevent and to treat. Researchers have the job to cure, via finding the source of illness, disease and conditions and then doctors apply THAT knowledge to their practice. My own PHP definitely believes in prevention, and yes,he also TREATS. Now, if I have a broken bone, then my "ortho" will treat it and in that process, CURE it. There is no "cure" for asthma. Sometimes people outgrow it, and the opposite also happens. Sometimes adults become asthmatic when they never were as kids. I have two friends who fall into THAT category, while my nephew, who was born an asthmatic (well maybe he became one at the age of a day or a week old?) outgrew it by the time he was in his teens. Foods trigger asthma, as does stress. When my nephew got a "draft notice" at the age of 18, he had a severe "attack" at the recruiting offce when he reported for his physical. Yup, got out of "serving"..

Thursday December 1, 2011, 4:31 am
Aaawwww! This must be so hard for you, and your son. Lots of love and healing to you!

In ancient China, the doctors were paid when the patients were healthy. Nowadays, the doctors are paid when the patients are sick. Something is not right here.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 5:09 am
For the past 3,000 years or more, cannabis has provided welcome relief for countless numbers of asthmatics. It was widely used for that purpose in the 19th century. The inhalation of marijuana smoke causes bronchial dilation lasting up to 1 hour. The bronchodilator effect of orally-ingested THC lasts up to 6 hours, but it is not so powerful as smoking marijuana. THC aerosols are not so effective as smoking marijuana because aerosolized THC has an irritating effect on the air passages. (29) L. Vachon, et al., reported that 0.7 mg. THC in a micro-aerosol proved to be up to 60% effective as a bronchodilator, with minimal mental effects and no parasympathetic effects. J. Hartley, et al., found that administration of minute doses (50-200 micrograms) of THC by inhalation increased the peak expiratory flow and forced expiratory volume in 1 second in a dose-related manner. The effects last 4 hours. D. Tashkin, et al., explored the anti-asthmatic effect of THC, and found it to be useful against the encroachment of emphysema. R. Gordon, et al., confirmed the anti-tussive effect. Cannabis also has been used with success in the treatment of whooping cough. In 1955, J. Sirek reported on the importance of hempseed in tuberculosis therapy, but the discovery has been largely ignored since then. (30-34) Visit - http://www.rexresearch.com/hhusb/hmphlth.htm#hhl2c

Asthma Information pages

So, Diane, am I to understand that you discount the countless number of people that cannabis has provided relief for through the ages, for their asthma, and also deny the results of the clinical research that has shown that the bronchodilator effect is real?

Has someone told you that the only thing cannabis does is relieve pain? If that is all you think it does, you are woefully misinformed.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 5:13 am
"I pray that your son will be healed in the name of Jesus "... What a load of crap. If Jesus didn't create asthma, who did?

Thursday December 1, 2011, 5:33 am
OMG, MJ M, you're starting to come across like the guy who calls up every local talk show in my area and starts commenting about whatever the discussion is, and then digresses to growing hemp for clothing, ropes whatever.

I guess you missed the part of my comments about the fact I'm for legalizing pot for medicinal purposes. I guess you missed the part about my having two close adult friends who have asthma. I guess maybe I should have posted statistics about acquaintances and yes, a few family members who use it and have prescriptions to grow and buy it. I guess maybe none of that is relevant. I guess the fact I've tried it myself (albeit year ago) and found I couldn't breathe is irrlevant. No, it's not just "someone", it is many people over many decades, and cannabis also gets people stoned, but sure, they could claim they "just" have asthma. I wish my doctor would prescribe it for me instead of vicoden, but he doesn't believe in it unless it's for MS, countering chemotherapy side-effects or a couple of other issues that I don't have. I can get it in any form I want thru various sources, since I have a dispensary in my community, but again, addressing pain would be the only reason I'd want to.

For 3000 years it's been providing welcome relief for asthmatics? Really? I never knew before that 1000 years B.C. anyone knew what asthma was. Geez, after reading this, I think I'll eat the 2 candies and the brownie I've had sitting here for months in case I run out of vicoden. I need "something"!

And NO, Letitia, Jesus didn't create asthma. He didn't create anyting but dissent amongst the Romans, if I remember the history books correctly.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 5:39 am
And to suggest giving an 11-yr-old who already has been the focus of a system who threatened caring parents with taking custody away from them, an illegal substance is flat out crazy.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 5:59 am
16 States and the District of Columbia say it IS legal, medicinally. If it's safer than Big Pharma's poisons, who's the flat out crazy one?

Thursday December 1, 2011, 6:43 am
‘Big Pharma has been accused of selling drugs that are so dangerous they cause death and drugs that cause the exact conditions they're supposed to treat. The popular asthma drugs Symbicort, Advair Diskus, Serevent Diskus, Dulera and Foradil do both and actually warn on their labels that they cause an increased "risk of death from asthma problems."

Big Pharma and the FDA have known for years that formoterol fumarate, found in Symbicort, Dulera and Foradil, and salmeterol, found in Advair Diskus and Serevent Diskus, can paradoxically cause asthma deaths, especially in CHILDREN AND AFRICAN AMERICANS. The FDA has heightened the warnings on the labels several times and convened several hearings about the drugs' safety, and some doctors have called for their complete ban.’

Thursday December 1, 2011, 7:00 am
I'm going to ignore your crusade to push pot on an 11-yr-old, MJ. You're preaching to the choir about legalizing it in the first place. It's still illegal accordng to FEDERAL law, and Federal law supercedes state law, in case you haven't heard. There have been countless raids on medicinal marijuana coops (dispensaries) and they will continue until the Feds decriminalize it. 16 states is less than 1/3 of the number of states, so what is your point? Did you not read Sheldon's article about the fact that the system was called in to take custody of his son because he even questioned the doctors? Okay, so he gives his kid "pot". What do you think is going to happen? Again, you are still on some rant about it being used for whatever. It is a great tool to use for chronic pain..........ask Montel Williams, who was busted with a pipe in his luggage going thru airport security. He has MS, BTW. Montel is a fitness guru, a health nut, talk show host, martial arts practioner, and knows what he's talking about. He went thru a series of injections to address his muscular issues (of high doses of THC) and now smokes it. There is a vast difference between muscle atrophy and spasms in the arms and legs and breathing problems. If TCH helped that, I'd suggest my best friend try it. She's miserable and it affects her ability to sleep, to eat, to drive, and go to and from her job. Again, if it was less of a hassle for me to get, I'd use it but again, I can't smoke it, it affects my ability to breathe, period. Medicare doesn't cover it and my doctor won't prescribe it. That leaves me other options, all of which are too expensive. Again, you are preaching to the choir and this discussion about an 11-yr-old with breathing problems, an over-zealous medical team in one hospital is somewhat of an inappropriate forum to fight for legalizing pot.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 7:08 am
Sheldon. thanks for sharing this story about your son. I find it so sad and terrible. We people have to take control of our own lives and educate ourselves about the medication we are talking. the doctors don't have time or simply are not willing to tell us what we need to know. The pharmaceutical companies are just happy to pass out more drugs and more drugs. Doesn't matter to them whether or not it helps or hinders so long as it is being used. That is why we MUST educate ourselves and stand up for ourselves. If not us, who then?

Thursday December 1, 2011, 7:16 am
You & your family are in my prayers!! Please continue to fight for the best care possible for your son! I think sometimes it is forgotten that doctors are human & mistakes are made. I think the majority of doctors do try to do the best for their patients, but I have also had to refuse medication to regain my health - turns out I was allergic to the medicaiton I was being given in the hospital, I have not idea what would have happened had I continued to take it but I "knew" something was wrong & when I had the strengh to refuse it I did so & demanded they stop all future treatments too, slowly but surely I regained my health & now have to be sure to put the drug down as an allergy. We all rely on past experience when we do our jobs and I'm sure the medical professionals do as well, but sometimes there are exceptions & they/we need to recoginze this possibility & pursue other avenues of treatment. God bless you & I'm praying for total healing for your son!

Thursday December 1, 2011, 7:17 am
/

Thursday December 1, 2011, 7:29 am
'....can paradoxically cause asthma deaths, especially in CHILDREN AND AFRICAN AMERICANS. The FDA has heightened the warnings on the labels several times and convened several hearings about the drugs' safety, and some doctors have called for their complete ban.’

If Sheldons picture is really him, I'm assuming his son is African American. Children and African Americans. This seems like the PERFECT time to discuss SAFER alternatives. He said that the drugs they were giving his son were making him worse. Your statement about my 'crusade to push pot on a 11 year old' is not only offensive but also a complete lack of understanding of the facts on your part.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 1:04 pm

I'm so sorry about your son. To exacerbate the growing asthma problem in America, Rand Paul was demonstrating with graphs that air pollution is actually good for asthma - sounds like the doctors caring for your son might be guilty of this tiny brained thinking. I send my best wishes for a complete recovery for your son.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 1:26 pm
Noted Tks. Sheldon...My prayers are with you and your son. I would go for that second or third opinion. I have little faith in Doctors these days and I don't care what side of the border your on. They either over medicate or give nothing at all....It's sometimes how fast the turnover from one patient to the next, instead of taking the time per individual....Keep up the fight..you and your son are in my thoughts and prayers...

Thursday December 1, 2011, 2:48 pm
I need to clear something up here. Medicine and Dr's have neve had a track record in any history to cure. medicine has evolved over centuries to what it is now. we need to stop this lingo right now. cause we have come thru the ancient times and blood-letting- not washing hands between patients to doing so and learning how to handle one enviroment over another to contain the spread of bacterias and other pathogens. So we have progressed much in allareas. There was a time when an appendiicitis was not so easier diagnosed than it is today. I respect specialists and primary practioniers. I respect consults. i say to you beware of people coming to you whose only concern is how much medical care cost only. People who have money and great insurance don't have those problems and have access to excellent care. many are not cured but live in the maintenaince of those diseases as best afforded.
If you worked you would want to get paid. But the thought thrown out there with everyone else is --your healthcare cost too much, we need to look at it--. Right there we begin to lose cause our focus is changed from what is needed-- to you cost too much.
Now back to asthma. I use the pain analogy- things run intrends being reactionary to an incident/event (s). Once in the last 2 decades medical society didn't want patients entertaining pain. They would ask you to grade your pain levels from one to10; 10 being the worst. I know cause I been there had that. Now reacting to The Michael Jackson event and maybe even before that they reacted again and ajusted and now no pain meds or pain med concerns. Lump it and suffer. That's how our society is reactionary.
Now asthma; Yes these drugs have side affects as does foods. There is nothing else to save your life. I've used these asthma drugs in one way it keeps you alive at risk of a russian roulette death. There is nothing else. If you water this stuff down- it doesn't work. the new rescue inhalers formula does not pack a punch like the old one that brought relief quickly. That's the trade off. many things that helped me, they removed from the shelves and some they made you sign for.
some of what i hear some of you talk about, what would you suggest we do for medicine? I mean; your argument has two sides one suspect and one solves a problems.
I am glad that sheldon cleared up that his child is doing better and was doing better at the time of his complaint. cause that piece i was meditating over well how this go from this point to this point. his update cleared that up for me.
An asthma attack can go to different extremes and I am speaking from a patient experience. Your airways can become so restricted and the mucous so thick and stuck is why i spoke of a vaporizer for the steam element or it in the air to deal with the mucous and calm the bronchioles down while the meds work internally.
If it goes thru various stages and you are puliing energy from your gut to breathe; i couldn't breathe and walk and finally i couldn't talk. Everything was channeled to just trying to breathe.
i wonder how many of us truly know what asthma is and where it can take you. If we are not careful we will in our zeal to fight side affects of meds, shoot ourselves in our own foot and have nothing to look to, to treat asthma and death diseases to keep alive and functional and we will die with no rememdy ay all.
There are those out there who say the sick are too expensive and don't want them covered for care. And-- there are others who like they took down the teaching profession and their due will do the same to the medical field. I have had issues for many years. i reseached what it is all about. I asked questions, then i came to terms with it with what i am up against and what my expectation of some quality of some sort of life. There are bacterial and viral pneumonias and the same anti-biotics don't cover both pathogens.
You should try to learn what it is all about. i brought up breathing tubes cause when one labors with breathing they use it to breath for you and with the state us getting air into you body help you to get air into your you lungs to feed your body what it needs in O2 to stay alive.
I don't know any thing about weed and asthma so I pass on that one. I just hope my points strike a balance, while you all are deliberating about asthma and meds etc. BTW i have not read anything on my insert about this drugs singling out african americans. I'll look again.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 2:54 pm
Hello Sheldon, there lies some truth in Cannabis used against Astma.Get informed and try it .

Thursday December 1, 2011, 3:03 pm
so many typos, I'll work on it. hope you can understand thru it.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 4:40 pm
Some Asthma Drugs Kill More People Than Asthma: Why Is Big Pharma Allowed to Hawk Deadly Pills?

Big Pharma and the FDA have known for years that formoterol fumarate, found in Symbicort, Dulera and Foradil, and salmeterol, found in Advair Diskus and Serevent Diskus, can paradoxically cause asthma deaths, especially in children and African Americans. The FDA has heightened the warnings on the labels several times and convened several hearings about the drugs' safety, and some doctors have called for their complete ban.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 5:28 pm
Yes that is true MJ, they known it for years and it also the leading cause for childhood hospitalization due to infections which trigger asthma attacks. It's also interesting to note that many kids hospitalize with asthma repeatedly had a severe deficiency in vitamin D3 which work wonders for the immune system.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 5:38 pm
Sheldon, I am sorry to hear about such an unfortunate situation you and your son are in. It is really terrible when one is treated by untrustworthy doctors, esp. if more harm than good is done ultimately! Needless to say, it should never be the case. Lacking experience in this particular thing, I can only wish you the best of luck in your fight for your parental and your child's rights, and the best of health to your son! On a more personal note: It is on my page, as the testimonial. May it help you and may other people be warned.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 5:56 pm
I am so sorry to read about you son's problem and pray he is healed without any more dangerous drugs.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 6:11 pm
Sometimes...more often than not in my opinion, nature has the best treatments...Farmameds good...Pharameds bad....is my first thought in general. So sorry to hear of this tragic medical tale that you are having to sort our and suffer through with your son Sheldon. My best to you both and I hope the medical establishment does more to help than to harm him in the future...but again..personally, I really have serious doubts that they will.

The Phamamed folks... $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ ..only need to put a tubt warning label on things and the docs prescribe them without more than a hint of thought it seems as to what they really are giving anyone...much less to a child. It really is all about profits/stocks and the wallets over flowing for the 1% of the wealthiest of Americans isn't it.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 6:31 pm
It seem so to me Jae... Thanks for your comment,

Thursday December 1, 2011, 6:43 pm
I do want to make clear what I mean about 'Farmameds'....herbs,vitimans,alternative treatments upon suspicion of a health problem and through out it, even if one is also partispating in the 'medical establishments' ...treatment. Nearly everyone , sooner or later unfortunately, do have to take that route..especially in emergency situations ...accidents...etc., but until one finds it totally necessary there are ways to prevent health problems in the first place with proper herbs/vitimans etc.I believe as many others do. For me..the pharamed.medical establishment is there as a last resort, not a first nor one to continue past the point of 'emergency'. It's all a choice and that just happens to be mine. A combo if nothing else in my opinion is the best if one must seek the 'opinion' of the medical/pharamed establishment. There are too many pharmameds that lower our immune systems but few doctors devote any attention or thought to what to do about that. Some do...and those blessed few are way too many in my opinion. Pharameds might sometimes be the only choice in a 'now' situation as a solution to a med problem left untreat for too long but once that point has been properly dwelt with it is up to someone to do what they can to help restrengthen the immune system and pharmameds are not going to do that , that I have heard of personally...but I have heard and had first hand knowledge of what herbs and vitimans and alternative treatments/theorpies etc. can do to strengthen ones immune system over all. It's a constant battle for all of us on this planet now and I do hope you get justice and as well as a fast solution to your son's health problems. Keep the faith and find that lawyer fast ! Hugs to both you and your son. May the spirit of life help guide and watch over you both.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 6:53 pm
Low Vitamin D Levels Associated With More Asthma Symptoms and Medication Use

Vitamin D deficiency soars in the U.S., study says

Thursday December 1, 2011, 6:59 pm
Thanks again Jae, and everyone else for your comments. There has been a lot of good sound advice I got from you all. Thanks for caring and God bless you all.

Thursday December 1, 2011, 7:56 pm
Hi Sheldon,

There's a lot of great advice here and I hope you will find some answers you need. I wish you lived here in Canada and could benefit from our health care system. I wish you and your family healthy times ahead.

Joey with GSD Kiva and Sam the cat

Thursday December 1, 2011, 8:42 pm
Sheldon, have just caught up to see what is happening. A suggestion is that you talk to a chemist/pharmacist about drug side effects. Over here, I have some friends who are pharmacists, which has been helpful, but we can walk into any chemist shop and ask about the side effects. They have a special reference book that they can look at and tell you about anything that your son is taking. It may also be useful to see if you can find a pharmacologist that is a chemist/pharmacist who works with natural drugs.

Another suggestion is to ask these chemists who they would recommend you to talk to. I used to take my son to our local GP who had a lifelong interest in asthma and what he didn't know wasn't worth worrying about. As soon as I turned up at the pharmacist with the prescription I was told that I was with the best person in the area, never mind the hospital.

If there is an asthma support group in your area, maybe even near by, ask them if they know a lawyer. Also ask about doctors. If someone has been in your situation before, they will already have been through the mill and may have found someone useful. They may also have some advice on drugs depending on the type of group. It is why I suggested using a UK group for information, they do not have any pharmaceutical tie in and are very good at talking about minimum doses.

My late father had heart problems and the consultants kept giving him drug after drug and not changing the doses or removing drugs. He saw a specialist professor who made him extremely ill then went to a local specialist on the recommendation of many people who had had heart issues. We had to laugh, he was a very good doctor but he had been to school with my brother so he knew Dad! He reduced many of the dose levels of the drugs that Dad was on and he felt a lot better for it. In fact, he was taking 2 different drugs for the same problem when he only needed one, that's how careful some of the hospital consultants were.

I truly believe that knowledge is power. Understand the disease(s) and the drugs and doctors tend to listen to you more, believe me I know.

G-d bless you and yours.

Friday December 2, 2011, 5:05 am
Hi Sheldon, I hope you get some justice.
I posted your story to myspace, facebook and twitters

Friday December 2, 2011, 6:07 am
Sheldon, the comparison between big "FARMA" and big "PHARMA" was a good one and good points. I think when one has a child struggling to survive, gasping for breath in the ICU, one tends to rely on the professionals in whose hands that child's life has been placed. There is no time to sit in front of a computer and do one's research or "ask around".

To reference the problems from lack of Vitamin D., we've known for decades that it's necessary, but then we hear being outside in the sun (the best source of Vitamin D) is bad for us. We can get skin cancer if too much sun is allowed to get on our skin, BUT too much sunscreen and no Vitamin D. Okay, so Vitamin A is necessary for good eyesight, but too much? One can become deathly sick. We've heard osteoporsis is from lack of calcium, then too much milk is bad, so we take supplements. The doctors suggest Fosamax or Boniva, and both address osteoporisis,but contribute to bone loss in the jaw. Okay, so I have to choose...........hip fractures or losing my teeth. We've all seen the TV commercials from lawyers asking if we've had a death from taking "X" prescription. Well, if I'm dead, I can't call them, can I?

Some of the advice is ridiculous. Some has a basis, but then it has to be weighed carefully against the side-effects. Do I want to take Celebrex because I have arthritis, or do I want to risk the problems from taking it? Do I want to be in chronic pain from my congenital back problems and have a healthy liver and kidneys, or take Aleve and get an ulcer?

IF one is going to consider homeopathic/alternative medicine, then that's great. I do for many things, but if I was going to have joint replacement (I did last Feb. actually), I don't think I'll rely on smoking a joint or sniffing plants to make me "not care" about the sound of the saw used to remove my bones........I want anesthesia. I recently lost a dear friend to colon cancer. Maybe if he'd tried Chinese mushrooms early on, he'd be alive today. He didn't, and also refused surgery, chemo, radiation and everything else. He figured he could drink enough J.D. to "mask" the pain and be happy. He made everyone around him miserable, right up to the end.

Lots to consider. You seem to be very intelligent and have a level head on your shoulders. I know you will make the right decisions for your son. He's a lucky kid to have you.

Friday December 2, 2011, 6:35 am
Dear Sheldon,

Thanks for letting me know about this - and for taking the time to send me a testimonial when you've got all this going on. I'm very sorry to hear about the trouble your son and his family have been going through but, as been said here already, he's a lucky lad to have you fighting his corner. I'd like to thank Henriette, too, for suggesting lighting a candle on the Care2 candle site - I lit one for Sheldon, asking that he might breathe more easily.

Wishing you all lots of luck and love,

Emma

Friday December 2, 2011, 8:19 am
Sheldon: I can't imagine that anyone would take the "neglect" charges seriously considering the amount of research that you have done in an attempt to unravel the mystery behind your son's medical problems relative to the many medications being administered and the high level of dosaging. As a parent, I would have done the same thing and would have stopped at nothing to help my child. I think everyone here is giving you good advice when they suggest that you seek other opinions. Commenters have offered you the names of people they have confidence in through personal experience. Stop at nothing in your attempts to make your son well. Good luck and God bless you in your efforts to find the correct diagnosis and course of treatment for your son's health problems!

Friday December 2, 2011, 11:00 am
Noted, thank you Sheldon. I I wish your son all the best.

Friday December 2, 2011, 11:09 am
Noted. Seek a second opinion!

Friday December 2, 2011, 2:28 pm
Sheldon first i want to say that i am praying for your son, your wife and yourself during this time of much needed healing for Sheldon Jr. and duress you have been put through.
The actions of the doctors involved have crossed the line. You need to call a lawyer if you haven't already and file a lawsuit and follow the advice your lawyer gives you.
I have asthma and COPD and have a respirologist who tests me twice a year, gives me inhalers to use as needed ( side effects cause shaking- eg Ventolin) Also i use Symbicort which is a corticosteroid Turbuhaler (by Astra Zenica - side effects most noticeable is raspy voice - honey helps and throat gargles with warm salt water - herbal lozinges). Also i have QAVAR by GRACEWAY2 also a corticosteroid(Beclomethasone Dipropionate Metered Dose Aerosol)

Every time any medication is prescribed, before I purchase it, the first thing i do is ask the pharmacist for a comprehensive side effects printout. I also go online to *double check* and make sure it is an inclusive list.
Check also for comments regarding the medication by other patients.

Second opinions are a must!
Emerg visits to the hospital happen for me and obviously for your son and my first question is who is the patient rep on duty. I get a name. That way, if I need to be fast tracked or i'm not happy - e.g. left alone with the oxygen mask and meds drip without a buzzer - my husband knows who to contact!
Also get the name of the head nurse managing emerg. ... document your experience with names, meds, times etc.,

Your friends at Care2 have rallied around you with their concern and support and i join our 'family' here to let you know that do care very much, that those of us who pray are asking for comfort and healing, strength and renewal and a successful legal resolution that your family deserves, all this and so much more.
Positive energy and Light be within your heart, mind and spirit for you Sheldon and your wife and Sheldon Jr.

Please let us know how your son is doing soon. With much love, respectfully your cyber sis and friend rosemary

Friday December 2, 2011, 3:25 pm
I wish you and your son well Sheldon. Good for you in advocating so effectively and exposing this shameful situation. Please keep us informed as to the progress both of your son's treatment and your stand against the sytem.

Friday December 2, 2011, 5:15 pm
Thanks guys, you all have been so very helpful with your words of encouragement. I'm so very blessed to have my cyber buddies rally behind my cause. And thank you Kathy for posting my story on your Facebook, myspace and twitter. I agree more people has to know of whats being done in the dark by some of the most trusted institutions within our country. Their strength lies in their secrecy and one has to wonder: How many families that they destroyed with this type of abuse?

Friday December 2, 2011, 5:22 pm
I think its time to shake the grass and see how many snakes fall out. Maybe more people would come forward with their story as they may have felt powerless against the system. I've reported this crime to every investigative agencies within Pennsylvania and it's community leaders. I'll keep you guys posted of any new developments.

Friday December 2, 2011, 5:23 pm
I'm happy to report that Sheldon Jr. is doing well right now :)

Friday December 2, 2011, 6:00 pm
Sheldon, I am so sorry to read of your son's illness and subsequent stay in that hospital. I feel for you and am glad you are going to press for inquiry and suit. Doctor's are not Gods, as much as they believe their own hype. They often make serious, life-threatening and sometimes fatal mistakes. I hope your son recovers quickly away from these idiots. Please do as others here have commented. Take your son to Johns Hopkins and away from this conclave that sounds as if they may be getting some sort of gain from pushing dangerous drugs on children for the sake of PROFIT. Get a second opinion. I am not a doctor, but I would definitely be questioning why he has to be on so many drugs and so many of them are dangerous.

Remember, doctors are not gods and they make mistakes -- everyday. Used to be, one could trust their doctor, not anymore. Most are in the profession for gain and not for their Hippocratic Oath. However, there ARE still EXCELLENT PHYSICIANS out there. There is a big difference between a 'doctor' and a 'physician' -- one cares only for headcount, income and ego. The other cares about individual patients, one-to-one care, usually very reasonable on rates, most times will work with those who have little or no insurance, genuinely cares about the people he/she treats and isn't full of themselves. One just has to find them. I am sure you can find one for your son and he will be made well. I will keep him in my prayers. I wish you the best of luck on getting some justice for you and your son.

Friday December 2, 2011, 6:19 pm
I don't know much about asthma but it seems to be respiratory inflammation. Now what's causing the inflammation? I don't think it has anything to do with the immune system, though powerful drugs in some cases probably can reduce the immune system. It may sound stupidly trite but get a complete physical (blood tests you name it) for your son, list every and all physical problems whatsoever, then see a nutritionist and get a complete assessment there, go on that regimen, then at least you're beefing up the body to it's best state, best condition, best chances of beating off any bad condition in it. Shortages of vitamins and minerals in a body can cause bad physical conditions.
Let's face it, doctors are human. Prone to mistakes, poor conclusions, poor decisions, personal problems of their own that affect their work, poor diagnosis, poor evaluation, time or money considerations, and doctor to doctor they don't all agree even about the same illness or disease! Some are sick of patients, some treat patients on a production line basis, it really CAN matter WHO the individual person is who you're trusting your own or someone else's health with. Some individuals are much more effective and wiser than others and this includes doctors. Unfortunately it can almost be like a car mechanic. There's some you wouldn't dream of letting fix your brakes compared to some other mechanic FOR THE VERY SAME JOB.
Good luck.

Friday December 2, 2011, 7:34 pm
Thanks Kenneth, for your comment. When my son was admitted into Lehigh Valley Hospital, I was very concerned and I was asking a lot of questions, I ask all the attending doctors throughout their many shift change to check for any abnormalities in his blood. my concerns fell upon deaf ears. So, I prayed to God for answers and researched everything I could find about asthma and the meds he was on via my iphone.

It was then I realized that the drugs was suppressing his immune system and he was more prone to catch infections.

Here are some of the adverse effects of FLOVENT, the steroid that he was on:

Immune System Disorders: Immediate and delayed hypersensitivity reactions, including urticaria, anaphylaxis, rash, and angioedema and bronchospasm, have been reported.

Respiratory: Asthma exacerbation, chest tightness, cough, dyspnea, immediate and delayed bronchospasm, paradoxical bronchospasm, pneumonia, and wheeze.

My son had pneumonia, and the Doctors never even mentioned that to us, they just kept telling us that he had really bad asthma and they was trying to sell us a pharmaceutical maintenance plan with all these powerful steroids that would have most likely made him worse base on the history of his worsening condition since they started treating him for his asthma.

Friday December 2, 2011, 9:05 pm
the treatment of your son was and is awful. we should be able to trust the medical staff that takes care of us. i hope he is feeling better. my advice to you as a fellow christian continue to pray for your son and for the medical staff. im sure you can find a christian doctor who can treat you and your family. most important youll be able to trust what the doctor tells you. may GOD bless you and your family

Saturday December 3, 2011, 12:49 am
Read & Noted.
That is awful :( xn

Saturday December 3, 2011, 3:49 am
Very sad. I hope something can be done. One of my cousins died of asthma.

Saturday December 3, 2011, 3:57 pm
Prednisone is a powerful steriod with devastating side effects. You had every right to question, and ask for a second opinion. I am glad your son is better, but these hospitals think they are God. And there are plenty of malpractice suits in our court system everyday.

Saturday December 3, 2011, 4:26 pm
Sheldon, I am so sorry you and your family had to go through this. As a registered nurse, there are a couple of things I'ld like to talk about. First of all, you MUST know that the AMA and BIG PHARMA are married in EVERY SENSE of the word; they constantly support each other's bottom line. That's why your life is probably one big whirlwind of doctor's visits and drugstore purchases to keep the asthma "controlled". There is no such thing as a medication without side effects; our bodies just weren't created to run on drugs! Secondly, and I'm so sorry to be the one to say this, but your particular religion automatically and DISCRIMINATELY raises red flags to the medical community. They automatically look for ways to prove that you aren't providing proper care for your child because your religion prohibits it. There is so much misinformation in the media. Now, this is what I would do if I were you. I would visit a naturopathic pediatrician or if not available, a naturopathic physician. They are covered on some insurance plans, but not most, so it can get a little bit expensive. You should contact your insurance company to see if they can provide the names of any naturopathic physicians in your area. The steroids that are being given your son are very powerful poisons that will eventually shut his life down, over time; they will also predispose him to other more serious conditions such as obesity and all that goes with it. In the event of a life threatening emergency, they will severely limit what can be done for him. Naturopathic physicians are NOT sanctioned by the AMA( because naturopathic physicians don't even acknowledge BIG PHARMA), however they are licensed by the states that allow them to practice. Asthma can kill people; it is caused by so many factors. It may be triggered environmentally as well. Naturopathic physicians are trained to tune in to the whole person and it's processes to find the root causes for disease; not just write prescriptions to cancel the symptoms while making BIG PHARMA bigger and creating even more system breakdown and symptoms for the patient, who will then need MORE medicine! The AMA and BIG PHARMA have killed so many people but they are so good at hiding it. If you go to a naturopathic physician, preferably a naturopathic pediatrician, he or she will work with your family to help better understand what triggers the asthma, if necessary will assign a natural substance to deal with the root cause of the asthma that is particular for your son, and will also help him stay healthy by keeping check on all his body systems, not just the ones having symptoms. Since this person is a STATE LICENSED PHYSICIAN, you will be able to prove to anyone that you are providing adequate care (actually even better care) for your son. Your son has his whole future ahead of him; he'll need every bit of health he can get. May God guide you in finding a better way for your family's health.

Saturday December 3, 2011, 7:12 pm
Thanks Donna, I really appreciate your comment, It was very helpful.

Monday December 5, 2011, 12:49 am
AMAZING

Monday December 5, 2011, 11:45 am
Best wishes to you and your son and his mother. It is obvious that you care deeply for Sheldon and will go to great lengths to protect and care for him. Get that second opinion, look into alternatives, keep up the vitamins, and I know he will do well.

Tuesday December 6, 2011, 1:44 pm
Very sad, never loose faith Sheldon. May you stay safe, bless you and your family. Always.

Wednesday December 7, 2011, 6:04 am
Im so sorry to read about your Son Sheldon, what a frightening situation to be in, thank you for sharing his story.

Wednesday December 7, 2011, 11:45 am
I am living proof that eating High Amounts of Dark Leafy Greenss which are High in Vitamin A which I eat raw in salads. I've not had an asthma attach in 10 years so far

Thursday December 8, 2011, 4:12 am

You have done nothing wrong by standing up to these doctors and may have saved your son's life in the process.

Once you get all of this squared away, hit these clowns with the lawsuit that ate Cleveland!

There is no excuse for this kind of medical practice.

GOOD LUCK TO YOU ALL!

Sunday December 11, 2011, 11:19 pm
Sheldon, I am so sorry to hear of your son's problems. I do not know much about asthma, but I would surely get a second & possibly third opinion from other doctors. Don't be afraid...
I agree with Donna S.
Also, Your son can take control over his life. Teach him to have faith in himself, Life...:)
I wish your son a swift recovery!
Remember: Life is gift!

noted with hope

Sunday December 18, 2011, 6:12 pm
Sheldon you are a mystery to me.

Sunday December 18, 2011, 6:54 pm
lyn L...you and me both.

Thursday December 22, 2011, 11:03 pm
I hope your son is feeling better now, Sheldon.

Monday January 23, 2012, 12:35 pm
I'm hoping that Sheldon Jnr is now out of hospital and doing well.

Can I make a further suggestion that you may take a while to consider? If you can move out of the city into the suburbs or countryside (I know that it could be pricey) but air pollution aggravates asthma as well as other auto imune conditions. I would also suggest an organic vegetarian or vegan diet. The meat in America is full of unwanted antibiotics, growth drugs and all sorts of unwanted chemicals. It has been banned from importation into Europe because of it. Also check for food intolerances if possible. Sometimes such intolerances can make you ill eg peanuts can kill even if there is only a trace but something like wheat or dairy can just make you unwell.

My late brother nearly died several times due to asthma and found that a healthy veggie diet and exercise helped him, he fenced and did Tai Chi.

Thursday January 26, 2012, 2:07 pm
I'm saddened by this story and hope your son is doing better.

Thursday February 23, 2012, 6:05 pm
HEALTH WORKERS INVESTIGATED OVER SERIOUS CRIMES

Note This @ http://www.care2.com/news/member/964135643/3107845

DR'S / PSYCH'S LEAVE OUR KID"S ALONE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wv49RFo1ckQ

Making a Killing: The Untold Story of Psychotropic Drugging - Full Movie (Documentary)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDlH9sV0lHU&feature=BFp&list=PLB1C828275CC9A5EB

Friday February 24, 2012, 7:32 am
This is appalling but not surprising. We all have to be much more involved in our own medical care and that of our families.

A few years ago my 18 month old grand nephew went to the pediatrician and had his head circumference measure off the charts but the doctor did nothing. A few months after that he was having problems walking - the doctor said he had an inner ear infection and prescribed some ear drops. when he had progressed to not even being able to sit up both my niece and sister demand additional test. He had a brain tumor wrapped around his brain stem. the local doctors said it was inoperable but they took him to a Children's hospital in the state and the surgeon there removed it successfully.

He was put on chemo - half of which was done at the Children's hospital at the norther end of the state and half in their hometown at the southern part of the state. the doctors in the local hospital would not adjust the dose of the chemo for his weight loss - as a result he has a permanent 20% hearing loss. However he is no 10 years old and doing well otherwise.

Sunday February 26, 2012, 12:01 pm
I hope you were able to get a second opinion from an independent specialist...Johns Hopkins was a great suggestion. Your family remains in my prayers that you can find the right answers for your son.

Tuesday April 24, 2012, 11:03 am
Quack! This sort of duck looks like what I would see over the sight of a shotgun. Get the boy a competent doctor instead of a Big Pharma stooge!

Sunday May 27, 2012, 9:45 am
Thanx for your story and so glad that your son is doing well now. We must all be vigilant in our own research and care of our loved ones. Unfortunately, we need to trust ourselves as the medical pros do not have a well rounded education. Then , we hope for no emergencies. When the right treatments for the individual are found, even then, the body may gain immunity to the substances. I watched this nightmare with someone who added new pharma meds every year or two. He passed too soon. Farma and lifestyle changes are the healthiest way to go. But, I'm sure you are doing what's best for your son.