Text Box: A Thought about Rationality I was recently reminded how the sanest among us have their irrational moments. Let us assume we’re speaking of off-balance moments; not sheer stupidity. While we women are known to be the rock of stability when it comes to caring for our families, or providing logic to moments of confusion, we can be just as staunch in our resolve not to take action when it comes to our own health. An aging friend has found her body just ain’t what it used to be: and, like some of us, resents it terribly. Last year, the less than savvy physician she visits issued a prescription to treat adult onset Diabetes: but said it was “just pre-diabetic” (for several years the literature has stated there is no such thing (it’s like being a little pregnant). A few weeks ago the patient was feeling tired and short of breath. Our Senior was referred to a specialist. The Cardiologist indicated diabetes is a factor in heart disease; as is her extensive family history. He pointed out that her tests were all normal, with the exception of elevated cholesterol. The doctor explained how lowering the number would help stave off impending coronary problems. In response, our older American lashed out at the man. Why does SHE have these problems? She eats a healthy diet! She exercises regularly! She has always been hale and hearty! She refused to take anything for her condition. I suspect she will die, have a stroke, or become a cardiac cripple in the not too distant future. There is another scenario that plays out daily, which is just as bizarre: putting off going to a health care provider, in anticipation some condition may be revealed. The logic(?) being that if nobody knows about it, no treatment would be necessary. When the errant lump is discovered, the patient suffuses with fury and self recrimination for submitting to tests. From what I’ve seen in two decades of clinical care, reaction such as the one just related, is not an isolated instance. To some, being told they have a chronic ailment and require pharmaceuticals, is a personal affront. They lash out in angry insolence. It is also not a foible of aging. People of all ages and walks of life express their frustration at the inability to control, through rage. “But” you say, “I don’t like taking medicine”. That statement takes me back to the old Dow Chemical slogan: “Better living through chemistry”. I will ask you: “Do you prefer the alternative?” Not being around to see the grandchildren grow up, your son get a job, or the mortgage paid off, isn’t such a great way to prove your point (which is?). Of course, you may not have a rapid lethal exodus. It’s quite possible you’ll live to experience those events: from a wheelchair, rehab center, or planted in front of a window. For those of you who still think nothing untoward will occur from lack of meds, perhaps you also think no illness would ever strike. Still avoiding the doctor or pharmacy? Corie RichterWriting for the fun of it!