Posted by Carl Plaskett on December 18, 2003 at 07:31:48:
In Reply to: Re: PVA's posted by Newman on December 18, 2003 at 02:52:39:
Newman: While I began to read/post to the LAF Forum back in 2000, around the time Jack started this site, I have some reservations about the commercialization of the site, (offer to receive emailed issues of 2 e-zines for $34.95/yr, or buy the site owner's book).
I think the owner/creator of that site has contributed a lot to the dialog re: afib and the causes/possible ways to ease frequency, through lifestyle changes, "natural supplements", IV Magnesium infusions, chelation therapy, etc.,etc.; but only some of the posters have introduced discussions re: "cures" (read:Maze/PVAs/PVIs).
I tried many of the "natural" alternatives prior to finally deciding upon the Maze in late 2000, and having it in January,'01. I have not had afib since, but did have a couple of runs of aflutter after my hospital release. I take no drugs, do whatever I wish at nearly age 63, and have a new life.
The owner of the other site however, is still fighting afib, AND finding some interesting info regarding things such as the relationship of heart inflammation to afib. His research, which involves asking posters to complete surveys, from which he compiles "results" does not pass the minimum standards I would expect from something labeled as research, given that it is the result of responses from those few who chose to participate by sending back their answers. This is not valid research. I happen to be one who has faithfully completed several of these questionaires, but I have always included the fact that I was "cured" by the Cox Maze III.
Given the commercial side of this site, and the fact that Canadians are posting of being cured in Canada by the Maze and more recently, ablations, I would hope that the owner of that site would screw up the courage to go for a cure at home, AFTER "researching" who/where in Canada he might go to for surgery or an ablation.
I wish him all the success the overwhelming majority of us have enjoyed, and hope that he might find someone to support real, controlled research re:afib.
- Re: PVA's Henry Alken 09:54:32 12/18/2003 (8)