Narcolepsy and History...Doctors Are Not Always the Smartest People...

I have recently had the opportunity to read some medical journals and reviews about Narcolepsy dating back to the late 1800's.  I realize that we know so much more in today's world, but damn!
There is absolutely no doubt that medicine in the 1800's and early 1900's was frequently scary as hell, just take a look here and the so scary, I could pee my pants selections here, at the "Dr. Bonkers Institute", to get the picture.But back to Narcolepsy...

I was perusing the 1897 book entitled, "Sleep: its physiology, pathology, hygiene, and psychology." by Maria Mikhailovna Manaseina and not only did I vomit a little while reading, but It so sadly reminded me of the attitudes of so many people during those times, and how scary it is to think that there are probably some people that actually have similar attitudes and beliefs today.  Below is a selection from this old piece of doo doo, "medical" book...

Oh no she didn't!  Ok... it's 1897...we didn't know much then...blah blah blah...HELL NO!  I don't care what year it was, she actually used the word "always".  Read it again please...She says people with Narcolepsy always come from lower and least developed classes or from families with "nervous or mental disease".  That is not a medical statement, that is a stereotypical, stupid statement of idiocy.  Man, all I can say is that I am so very thankful that she was not my doctor!  Thank you Jesus!  

You too, can also read this mind numbing "medical" book online for free by clicking here. There are so many statements in this book that are grossly racist and just plain nuts. But sadly, it is history.

I am a believer in knowing the truth about history and learning from it as well, but sometimes, well, actually, a lot of the time, it really is a hard pill to swallow.  So many throughout history suffered and fought for freedom, and were treated in ways that we could never imagine.  We've got to honor those who suffered and paid the price for our freedom today, and pray for those that still suffer unimaginable circumstances even today. 

Medical issues are just one piece of the pie.  All I can say is that I feel like one of the most blessed people in the world. 

From all I can find, Maria Mikhailovna Manaseina was a noted Russian physician and scientist that studied sleep.  If she were here today, I would have to tell her to kiss my Narcoleptic ass!!!  

History lesson concluded.