Richard64. Think you have to be careful how you respond to people with worrying results Ultrasound/Scans etc. I'm sure you mean well but you must be aware that many people that post here are usually very worried and anxious and you don't know what their state of mind is like when they post. Your reply to a post about a Liver Cyst ended up with tumours and ablations, don't think it was helpful but it did scare me. Think we all know liver stuff is serious, we're not in denial, constructive advice is what we need not the worst case scenario, everyone ultimately has to make their own decision on how to go forward. The BLT link explanation of cysts was very helpful for anyone that's worried.
Scaring People: Richard64. Think you... - British Liver Trust
Scaring People
This site is for help, support and advice.
It was never my intention to scare anyone. What l was merely trying to do was raise awareness. There is an almost relaxed approach beginning to creep in these days, "oh it's only fatty liver, you'll be alright". Early identification of liver issues is vital, and for someone to just say, "oh it might be, or could be" is not a satisfactory prognosis, in my opinion.
All liver related condition should be fully investigated.
I'm so pleased everyone is in support of you Richard and said what they have.. it saves me wading in!! Keep up the great advice it's invaluable !!
Laura xx
Hi Lola, I just wanted to say that Richard64 is extremely knowledgable and knows what he’s talking about. He most certainly wouldn’t intend to cause distress, just sharing what he knows.
I guess we are all different personalities, but I for one always want to know everything , including cold hard facts.
I’ve found more help on this site than anywhere because people sharing first hand knowledge is invaluable, in my opinion. xx
Hi Lola, When I joined this forum 2.5 years ago, after being diagnosed with F4 Cirrhosis, I was scared witless about what the future held for me. I was clear from the start, that I wanted honest replies to my worries and concerns. I didn't want sugar-coated there, there replies. Many of the people on here are very knowledgeable, Richard being just one. When people ask on here how their liver issues could develop, I think they deserve a truthful answer. We can soon spot the posters with anxiety issues, and reply accordingly. Nobody on here wants to upset people unnecessarily.
David
Lola, I do not know how long you have been a member, but you will see over time that there are certain members who are incredibly knowledgeable, helpful and generous with their time. We need their expertise and support. Richard64 is one of these and gives realistic, but not hyperbolic, responses. Please note his reply above… He is trying to combat the dangerous trend of medical staff to dismiss fatty liver as “no big deal.“ We all know that’s not true. Personally, I want to thank Richard for all he has done for me and other members on the site. Best of luck to you, Lola, and take good care.
Well said to all of you have backed Richard 64 I wholeheartedly agree
The reason I join forums is to hear both good and bad from people who know, we have to be proactive and learning about all scenarios enables us to go forward.
Richard, as I said in my post, I'm sure you meant well, but still think when someone posts and are concerned, in Belgium's case about a liver cyst it's not necessary to elaborate on more serious outcomes at this stage, as they're usually very worried and stressed anyway. It's just as likely to be nothing serious, we know it maybe too, but until a person has the results, we can try and be positive for them and not talk about more serious outcomes at this point, doesn't serve any purpose except frighten people more. Someone used the term 'sugar coated', like every one else here I like to know the truth. I appreciate very much what I've learned about liver disease on this site, and there is a few on here that go the full mile, with their knowledge in helping others and do so with kindness and integrity. Can see your posse came in to support lol, that's ok too😁 This site has many members, and most people don't post, so I'm sure others will relate to what I said. We are all here for support, this was never meant to be a tirade, so let's move on and go forward🙂
I of course totally respect your opinion. But I shall continue to advice others as much as I can.
Hi Richard
I’m sure you don’t mean you advise others Richard? We are not meant to advise are we? Merely to relate experience... as you well know lots of folk have been told off for giving advice! No way am I trying to detract from your comments though - it’s just terminology I think!
Miles
Miles, l have over the past three years been offering advice, support, help, and information of things liver related. I appreciate that liver disease in all it's forms is a delicate subject. People still need to be informed and made aware. Sharing experiences, and offering advice is what this site is all about. It's none judgemental, and people really appreciate that advice and support. Ayrshire Kate is a wonderful source of information and her advice is always spot on and is most often invaluable.
Spreading the word and talking about liver disease is now my mission in life. I have a few other irons in the fire and are doing things to support others. I shall continue to offer advice, help and support in anyway l can.
You are definitely a one off Richard! In the nicest possible way of course.
I’m not sure Katie offers advice per se she just relays what she has learnt or understands to be so from experience. There is a difference as you know only too well.
There's a few gems on this site and Katie is definitely one of them