Viva Las Vegas -- My Embryonic Stem Cell Doctors Visit America

As I prepare for my next trip to India in just about a week (can you belive it?), I am still recovering from a whirlwind trip to Las Vegas. Is any trip to Vegas not like that?? Dr. Geeta Shroff and Dr. Ashish Verma attended and presented at the Physicians Of Indian Origin Conference at the Venetian hotel Thursday.

Patients from all around the world came to support them and rally for their acceptance in the medical community. The organization of the conference was far from perfect, as Dr. Shroff's speaking time was misprinted in the conference schedule. In addition, the room she was to speak in was changed four times on the morning of the presentation. Text messages galore were flying between patient's cell phones to notify each other of changes as they came. Dr. Shroff had letters of confirmation from the organization for her presentation times and dates, but somehow, it all becamse a jumbled mess while we were there. Many people thought it was done intentionally to confuse the audience and limit the number of people who could actually hear her speak. The topic of embryonic stem cells is of the highest political debate. Although I hate to think this could be true, it is quite probable. The unfairness of it is heart-wrenching but re-confirmed the need for more advocacy from patients until change is achieved.

The physicians who did find their way to the correct room on the correct day were awe-struck as each patient got up to tell their story and demonstrate their new abilities. I told my story of recovery from a life consumed by physical pain; a quadriplegic told how he is able to breathe without his ventilator for the first time in 14 years; a paraplegic explained how her body is coming back to life after 15+ years; another paraplegic demonstrated how he can walk with leg braces and a walker; and the list of amazing stories didn't stop there.

Despite the scheduling conflicts, Dr. Shroff and Dr. Ashish's presence in the U.S., was comforting and re-inspiring to all of their patients and families who gathered in Vegas to support her. A pizza and cake party in my room allowed us all to mingle, meet or reconnect with each other. The room was brimming with hope, excitement and of course, lots of food. The top of the cake had a white chocolate plaque that read: GO BABY STEM CELLS!

There is absolutely no doubt in mind that my trip in July will help me harness a stronger immune system and further improvement in my remaining brain lesions.

I will of course be posting on this blog to keep everyone updated on the latest hospital happenings, stem cell procedures, and daily life in the sweltering heat of Delhi.

I will be there for three weeks and expect it to be every bit as inspirational and fun-filled (with a fair amount of emotional roller coaster rides) as last time. There are a few special people that I will get to see in Delhi at the hospital. When you are surrounded by honking horns, Hindi that you can't understand and endless bowls full of curry (although I do love how the chef cooks for me there), good friends are the very best medicine.

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About Amy B. Scher

A passionate author, pioneering patient, and sassy spirit with just enough sweetness to get me by, I live by my self-created motto: when life kicks your ass, kick back.Amy B. Scher's profile Amy B. Scher's blog