Dear Abigail, I began this response earlier...had to leave on family business.
First of all, thank you for those kind words. I try when writing about medical topics to give people the sense that they should be partners in their medical care--not passive consumers.
This is something you apparently came to understand through experience. That is a terrible lesson to learn as a young woman. Overcoming serious illness gives you strength and insight I think. This may be one source of your great empathy. May your good health continue--for at another 50 years :)
As for allergies... I think you and I may have more in common than I suspected. Super-charged immune systems. But that's OK, because we have the resources to get what we need. And the good sense to avoid what can hurt us.
And I'm not likely to be overwhelming my readers with information..because I usually start from ignorance. I have to study the stuff inside out until it makes sense to me, before I can explain it to anyone else. No jargon in my pieces because I don't know any :))
I think epigenetics gives lie to all those who would blame heredity--for anything. The environment has such a profound effect on gene expression. Knowing this makes social policy--social equity-- all the more compelling. Heredity is a cop out, I think. Even something like Huntington's Disease, which is generally described as a genetically transmitted disorder, can be affected by lifestyle and environment.
Thank you for reading, and commenting on my long blog. I know you're busy, especially this time of year. So your feedback is much appreciated.
We are getting ready for Thanksgiving here, in the USA. I'm barely used to fall, and it seems winter is pressing upon us. Fall is my favorite season..best time for walking.
Hope you are well, peaceful, and not too pressed for time.
Love, from your good friend, in chilly New York,
AG