Really sorry for the loss of your friend. It's really unfortunate but these things do happen, and too commonly. I see your passion.
From my viewpoint, the medicals have actually never promised to give us the ultimate solutions. The problem is that at the time we are in distress we are often so desperate for some relief. It is just too loud an option for people. I agree that if we could tarry and explore some less drastic measures in some cases - probably many, we would be the better for it on the long term. Personally, I've had some disturbing health issues for years but never quite had the money to go for a diagnosis and treatment. Ironically, i'm somehow thankful for this cos if I had, I have this funny idea that they would have messed with me, I would be dependent on drugs, and other things would have come up; cos really, as we age, our body systems evolve. Thanks for this writeup. Late to the party, you certainly have a great blog!