Leprosy Mailing List – October 26 , 2013
Ref.: (LML) Judy Bell-Krotoski and the utility of Monofilaments
From: Robert S. Jerskey, USA
Dear Pieter,
I would like to touch on the theme of Linda Lehman’s thoughtful eulogy to Judith [“Judy” ] Bell-Krotoski posted in the LML earlier this week.
Despite Judy’s ongoing series of chemotherapy treatments for her cancer, she maintained a keen interest in hearing and reading of developments in the field of P.O,D. particularly along the lines of measuring nerve function impairment with Monofilaments. For example, in a recent correspondence just weeks ago Judy wrote, and I quote:
“The goal for me has always been to use a sensitive, reproducible test to monitor patients for early neuropathy”
and
“Please convey my warm greetings and best wishes for success in testing to all. We know the monofilaments are good, but now need more clinical data for comparison with treatment, and identification of treatment that can really prevent impairment and disability by interrupting the developing neuropathy which in all I have measured and monitored seems highly possible if detected early.”
We were in touch before, during, and after the ILA Congress. She was so pleased to hear of the resurgence of interest in the utility of the Monofilaments for helping to assess nerve function and the requests for batches of loose filaments from different continents----thanks in great part to the LML.
I can very confidently say that Judy would be simply thrilled to read of Dr. Narasimha Rao’s news update re: the dissemination of the Monofilaments and instruction in their use at the seminars for large numbers of dermatologists----this appears to be “a first” globally in terms of such numbers and of the significance of target audience--dermatologists.
If not for Judy’s dedication and generosity, the Monofilaments would not have been available for distribution at the Congress. (And there is still an ample supply for some time to come for those who were not able to receive them at the Congress---those interested can contact me.)
One of our last conversations included the question of a grant proposal for a sustainable supply of the Monofilaments to major centres and clinics worldwide.
In Memoriam and Gratitude to Judy.
Thanking you Pieter and the others who manage this LML---it continues to be such a singular tool and resource for so many.
Kind regards,
Robert
Robert S. Jerskey, LOTR, P.O.D.consultant
LML - S Deepak, B Naafs, S Noto and P Schreuder
LML blog link: http://leprosymailinglist.blogspot.it/
Contact: Dr Pieter Schreuder << editorlml@gmail.com
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