<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>> Many of us take for granted the use of the Celiac internet list serve, its owners, support group leaders, the medical professionals that DO pay attention to the needs of undiagnosed and diagnosed Celiac patients, and the many others that attempt in some way to make life better for Celiacs. Too seldom do we think of these actions as being responsible for saving a life. I received a call Monday evening that I think should be shared with all of you. This lady called to ask what our "Club" was all about. We began to talk and she proceeded to tell me her very recent story. In a nutshell she had been very ill for over 8 years. Seen eleven (11) different doctors and - as she got sicker and weaker - was told time after time that she had a malabsorption problem that was killing her, but they had no idea why. About 5 weeks ago she was hospitalized and basically told (once again) that there was nothing they could do for her. She was dying, but they couldn't tell her why. She asked her husband to let her go home to die. She returned home, too weak to move and barely able to speak. In desperation her devoted husband began to search the internet for an answer that the medical professionals could not find for over 8 years. He looked up malabsorption. That led him to Celiac Disease. Searching further he found the name of the local Celiac support group leader in their area. After contacting the leader they were immediately referred to a GI who was familiar with CD. She was tested, diagnosed and put on a gluten-free diet in just a few days. When she called me she was very much ALIVE and looking forward to gluten-free dining and travel and life in general. I have left the names out because I write this without the permission of our new fellow Celiac. But I think it's important that once in a while we recognize the efforts of those who are trying to make a difference. Each in their own way can contribute to a better quality of life for Celiacs. And who knows, maybe you too can save a life. Bob Levy P.S.: This new Celiac is already trying to make a difference. She has sent packets of information on Celiac Disease to all eleven (11) doctors who were unable to diagnose her. Great idea!!