I received some very tragic news today.
My endocrinologist, Dr. Kenneth Blanchard, passed away on April 15th. He was a US physician but he treated patients from all over the world. People here might know of his two books ("What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Hypothyroidism: A Simple Plan for Extraordinary Results" and "Functional Approach to Hypothyroidism: Bridging Traditional and Alternative Treatment Approaches for Total Patient Wellness").
I first saw Dr. Blanchard in June, 2014 and he saved my life and my sanity. He treated my hypothyroidism (and more recently, took charge of my HRT), all of which gave my life back to me. No other physician would treat me because my "levels were normal". Dr. Blanchard LISTENED to me, treated my symptoms, was always available for questions and guidance. Because of HIM, I am now in a good place. I don't think I would be were it not for this one, caring man. I was to see him on May 23rd (my regular 6-month checkup). I am very sad that I now do not have the opportunity to tell him just how amazing he is and what a difference he has made in my life.
I will miss his personal approach, his lone-wolf expertise, his willingness to challenge the establishment of medicine for the sake of his patients, that ever-present twinkle in his eye, his playfulness, his thoughtfulness and his love of telling jokes.
My heart goes out to his family, friends, colleagues and patients. He will be sadly missed.
Rest in peace, sweet Doctor. I hope you are making them all laugh up in the heavens.
xoxo
UPDATE: For those interested, here is a link to Dr. Blanchard's obituary on Legacy.com ( legacy.com/obituaries/bosto... ) as well as a link to the online guestbook where you can read the notes left by friends, family and patients ( legacy.com/guestbooks/bosto... )