Patient Stories
Some of the most significant medical discoveries come from patient stories. At MedTruth, we believe not all knowledge comes from the lab — so we go straight to the source. Explore our coverage amplifying the voices of patients experiencing conditions ranging from breast implant illness to mesh-related pelvic pain and more.
Top Articles on Patient Stories
Suicide, Stigma and a System Delaying Mental Health Care
Lauren Delisle · September 10, 2019
In January, 17-year-old Melody Saenz attempted suicide. Her experience with New York mental health services epitomizes the difficult journey to seeking mental health care, as pervasive stigmas, ill-equipped emergency departments and financial burdens add complex layers to finding treatment and recovery.
Health Features14 Patient Advocates Traveled to D.C.—Here's Why (Photos)
Ashley Lombardo · June 4, 2019
In May, women from across the nation gathered at the United States Capitol to advocate for the Medical Device Safety Act. The bill, recently re-introduced in the House, aims to restore patients' Seventh Amendment rights. Here's why the women of the Medical Device Problems group are fighting for it.
Laws + CongressIs Suicide an Adverse Effect of LASIK Surgery?
S. Nicole Lane · August 20, 2019
Sudden and tragic deaths following a popular eye procedure may indicate that suicidality is an adverse effect of LASIK surgery. Many doctors now believe that the procedure may cause neurological issues that lead to suicidal ideation. Patients experiencing complications feel they were not properly warned.
Health Features-
Suicide, Stigma and a System Delaying Mental Health Care
Lauren Delisle · September 10, 2019
In January, 17-year-old Melody Saenz attempted suicide. Her experience with New York mental health services epitomizes the difficult journey to seeking mental health care, as pervasive stigmas, ill-equipped emergency departments and financial burdens add complex layers to finding treatment and recovery.
Health Features -
14 Patient Advocates Traveled to D.C.—Here's Why (Photos)
Ashley Lombardo · June 4, 2019
In May, women from across the nation gathered at the United States Capitol to advocate for the Medical Device Safety Act. The bill, recently re-introduced in the House, aims to restore patients' Seventh Amendment rights. Here's why the women of the Medical Device Problems group are fighting for it.
Laws + Congress -
Is Suicide an Adverse Effect of LASIK Surgery?
S. Nicole Lane · August 20, 2019
Sudden and tragic deaths following a popular eye procedure may indicate that suicidality is an adverse effect of LASIK surgery. Many doctors now believe that the procedure may cause neurological issues that lead to suicidal ideation. Patients experiencing complications feel they were not properly warned.
Health Features
Healer Crowdfunds Explant Surgery for Breast Implant Illness
Nicole Knight · July 25, 2019
While more information on breast implant illness (BII) is sought by the FDA, some patients suffering from BII symptoms crowdfund explant surgery through platforms like GoFundMe. Miami-based healer Daniela Sage was among them, utilizing the power of social media to remove toxic implants.
Patient StoriesCobalt Toxicity: The Poison in Her Hip Replacement
S. Nicole Lane · June 28, 2019
Frances was 39 when she had cobalt alloy hips implanted. Within weeks, her skin broke out in boils. Within months, she faced effects ranging from memory loss and visual disturbances to severe tinnitus and PTSD-like rage/anxiety attacks. The effects of cobalt toxicity on the brain are evident.
Patient StoriesStories Not Statistics: Faces of Transvaginal Mesh
Carah Wertheimer · May 31, 2019
For Pelvic Pain Awareness Month, MedTruth is sharing patient stories. We're recognizing two transvaginal mesh survivors living with chronic pain. For Billie Copley, 44, and Jennifer Snowden, 34, transvaginal mesh implants have changed their lives forever.
Patient StoriesGet our reporting in your inbox
What is Breast Implant Illness?
Lauren Styx · April 9, 2019
In the past 20 years, more women have been coming forward suffering from symptoms related to their breast implants. While doctors insist these ailments are caused by other health issues, victims of breast implant illness take a stand to share their truth.
Patient StoriesQ&A: Angie Firmalino, Essure Problems Founder, Shares Her Story
Ashley Lombardo · August 27, 2018
Angie Firmalino, advocate and Essure Problems founder, shares her personal experience with the dangerous permanent birth control device.
Patient Stories