For those of you wishing to dive into my personal story and journey this is a good place to start. This is a follow up from my post yesterday regarding psilocybin therapies. Facing a terminal diagnosis under the age of 50 and mother of two teenage children is a tough pill to swallow (medicinal pun intended).
Conventional palliative treatment focuses on symptom management of my body’s physical pain but is not adequate in relieving depression and anxiety. I was thrilled as a patient to discover local integrative palliative specialists that served to fill this critical gap between the physical aspects of my illness and the intense emotional and mental anguish it has caused.
I read and heard about the remarkable efficacy shown in clinical trials (dating back years) with the use of psilocybin and similar psychadelic medicines at relieving deep emotional and mental trauma in patients. My doctor informed me that I qualify under existing Right To Try legislation, at the state and federal levels, to receive treatment with this investigational drug. I wish to exercise those rights.
When I was first diagnosed, I was informed the plan was to help support the highest quality of life possible. For me that means a deep sense of inner peace. I want my right to ingest psilocybin to be respected, with the chance that it will elevate and expand my consciousness. This is a doorway to highly effective, non-invasive, clinically-proven medicinal healing options that should be open, and remain open, for myself and all patients who are suffering. There is no time to waste. I need to walk through that door before my walk on this Earth comes to it’s final conclusion.
When that day does arrive, I feel fortunate that in my home state of Washington there exists a Death with Dignity Act that affords patients the choice of passing away peacefully on their own terms, in their own time, and their own sacred space surrounded by loved ones. A patient knows when their body, will and heart are ready to move onto their next journey (however one personally defines that). I feel blessed to have a medical team devoted to helping patients like me find greater peace of mind. Thanks Docs!
Because let’s face it folks, life is no cake walk. It can beat you down, chew you up and spit you out. I know, because I’ve been there and I am there. For a greater in-depth personal perspective, I invite you to read/download a piece I wrote when I was first invited to join this advocacy effort in October.
This is not a “woe-is-me-whiner” piece. Although, some I’m sure will read it that way. It is merely my honest account of the challenges and struggles I have faced and will continue to face. Overcoming my fears and challenges have provided tremendous personal growth. Living with a terminal diagnosis is no different. It is my intention that my stories serve to help and to heal. I hope any content that speaks to you is received in the same spirit with which it is created. Love.
Thank you for visiting.
Erinn
Erinn's Blog 