Diagnosis of Gaucher Disease

Here is a poem I wrote one night, when unable to sleep. I thought it rather appropriate since October is Gaucher Awareness Month. The poem is entitled "Diagnosis" relating to Gaucher disease:

Diagnosis

Diagnosing a rare disease, is difficult a task,

Relieved to rule out cancer, you continue to ask.

Why are platelets low and haemoglobin out of whack?

Still awful diseases in one's mind lurk at the back.

A doctor cannot know every single rare disease,

Hence correct diagnosis doesn't come with ease,

If no family medical history exists to help give a clue,

Appearing you're the first with something entirely new.

It can take a long process, which is highly frustrating,

But once on the right path the doctor begins debating.

Gaucher a rare disease, passed on from mother and father,

Often affecting siblings, a sister or a brother.

Many years ago, a sternum puncture, was the only way,

Of determining Gaucher, but this is not the case today,

Now it’s a simple blood test, no pain or fear,

Will give a diagnosis that's absolutely clear.

Technology and medicine have improved by far,

With greater awareness, we intend to lift the bar.

October is Gaucher Awareness month internationally,

Together we campaign, as a worldwide family.

To bring better understanding of Gaucher, a disease that’s rare,

Help me spread the word, and show how much you care.

Written by Elaine Benton 2014©