This is a copy of an email I received today from Ken Hughes, Chair of the Alberta Health Services Board:

January 26, 2011

Dear Ms. XXXX,

Alberta Health Services is dedicated to ensuring Albertans have access to quality health services within a sustainable health system.  Leading Canadian and international experts agree that there is a need for more conclusive scientific evidence regarding a possible link between MS and blocked or narrowed veins, as well as the effectivenss and safety of the "Zamboni treatment".

This is why on December 16, 2010, the Honorable Gene Zwozdesky, Minister of Health and Wellness, announced the government funded Observational Study into the safety and effects of venous procedures, including the "Zamboni treatment" for people with MS.  I recognize that you are familiar with this study, the purpose of which is to determine whether funding for future clinical trials is warranted.  You may also be aware that Minister Zwozdesky has established a working group to develop a comprehensive provincial MS stategy.

Alberta Health Services recognizes that MS places a significant hardship on both patients and their families.  However, it is appropriate that we use proper scientific evidence to find safe and effective treatments for all diseases, including MS.

I hope this information will be helpful to you.

Sincerely,

Ken Hughes

Chair, Alberta Health Services Board

My response:

Janaury 27, 2011

Dear Mr. Hughes,

It is still apparent that you do not read your emails.  You gather the many emails that you have received and have your assistant send a 'form letter' which poorly addresses the issue.  This attachement letter is nothing more than the same information that was in the email to me of December 21, 2010.

You are not making your own decisions based on information you can readily access online, by not reading the countless emails you have received, and by not making personal attempts to simply speak to any number of the many Canadians who have gone outside the country to be treated for CCSVI.  Instead of being insightful and using your intellect, a maverick if you will, which is necessary to be the CEO for a very important department in your province, you state you are leaving it up to 'leading Canadian and international experts'.  Who are these people and why are they the naysayers?  Why do you believe they are experts?  Have you looked into the biases for their recommendations?  Do you know the story behind their negativity?  Have you made a point to view the issue fully from both sides?  I don't think you have.  This makes me believe that you have found the path of least resistance, possess a lackadaisacle attitude, and allow the so-called experts to do your thinking for you.  This is unconscienable for a man in your position.

Yours truly,

Shirl XXXX