University of Houston: Aneise Jameson and Her Insights

Hi all! My name is Aneise Jameson and I am a graduate from the University of Houston, with a Bachelor's in Biology and a minor in Kinesiology. I am hoping to go to medical school next fall. I am working right now as a pharmacy technician and clinical research assistant. In my free time, I enjoy doing pilates and playing pickle ball!

Reviewed Article: Care Management in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis by M.H Soriani, C. Desnuelle

Main Argument & Findings:

The main argument of this article is that comprehensive, multidisciplinary care significantly improves both quality of life and survival outcomes for ALS patients. Approaching management in a holistic manner while recognizing the importance of early intervention profoundly impacts our understanding by showing that ALS care is not just about managing a terminal diagnosis, but about maximizing quality of life and potentially extending survival through coordinated, proactive interventions.

Importance for Youth:

This subject matter illustrates the utmost importance for today's youth to recognize and understand neurological disease. ALS, while primarily affecting older adults (peak incidence 65-75 years), can occur in young adults under 30. Understanding comprehensive care approaches helps reduce fear and stigma around neurological conditions in the real world. It also helps young people to become patient advocates for family members or friends who be affected and challenges them to growth in compassion and empathy. Furthermore, the article showcases how multiple healthcare disciplines - from respiratory therapists to social workers to palliative care specialists - work together. This can inspire young people considering healthcare careers to understand the collaborative nature of modern medicine.

What I Learned: 

I learned more about the ethics in medicine, especially on a global scale. The discussion of the French Claeys-Leonetti law and advance directives connects to ongoing global debates about end-of-life care, patient autonomy, and medical ethics. This is particularly relevant as many countries are updating their laws around these issues. The article also emphasizes the burden on caregivers and the need to support families, not just patients. This connects to broader recognition in healthcare that chronic illness affects entire family systems and hits close to home as I am hospice volunteer myself.

Citations:  Soriani, M. H., & Desnuelle, C. (2017). Care management in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Revue neurologique, 173(5), 288–299. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neurol.2017.03.031

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aneise-jameson-228b501a0

Instagram: @aneisejameson