Living With MEN Type-1

About the Book

This book details the experiences of a mother and her two daughters who have inherited a disease called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia or MEN Type-1. The gene of this disease is believed to be carried by males. MEN Type-1 affects many organs in the body such as the thyroids, pituitary gland, liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, and the kidneys, but is difficult to diagnose. As a result, the family received many terrible diagnoses before the cause of their pain was identified. Over activity of the endocrine system is one symptom considered when diagnosing MEN Type-1. All three women showed this symptom by the age of 30, and received some frustrating explanations for their problems. At times they were accused of exaggerating their pains to gain personal attention. There were times when seeking care, the threat of death knocked at their door. Many physicians have told them, “I’ve read about MEN Type-1, but never treated a patient with it.” Nevertheless, all have shocked many of their physicians and surgeons with their progress. There is not a cure for this rare disease, but with the right treatments and medications people with MEN Type-1 can live for a long time.

About the Author

Born and raised in Saint Louis, Missouri, Darlene Brown-Loftis graduated from Normandy High School, attended Culver- Stockton College and later joined the United States Army, where there she met her husband. Via of the military she did complete her college education. After completing military committments, she and family moved to enjoy the country living in the rural area of the small town of Hearne, Texas. This enjoyment is shared with her two children and three grandchildren.