Hi momdukes, thanks for being happy for me it is appreciated, but I am not happy unless every person I come in touch with who have MS gives their all to beat this damned nuisance of an intruder.  

So I am rapt you are interested in the hair anlysis.

Below is an article on hair analysis and what it does.  The cost is $135.US this place is in Baltimore but they will send the kit, you send your hair sample back and they give a phone conversation regarding what you should do plus they will send you a printed report and graph showing your good and bad things that are happening in your body.

You can do it all from home.

Many years ago, 1985 to be exact, I had to send my hair to the USA for analysis, but now we have clinics in Australia.

This company also do the chelation if required or sell the products to cleanse the body of whatever?

Keep me posted

cheers

Ruby

Hair Analysis Should be an Essential Part of All Chelations

Many factors affect the absorption, distribution and excretion of both toxic heavy metals and essential minerals. Hair levels of toxic metals may give the most accurate indication of body toxic metal burden and overall exposure. Hair analysis is extremely cost effective and also gives an indication of total toxic metal load. This is important because one frequently finds exposure to several different toxic metals which would not be apparent from a single blood test. In addition to toxic metals, hair analysis can provide valuable data regarding essential trace minerals in the body. This can be extremely helpful in pinpointing nutritional levels. Doctor's Data Inc* utilizes the most up to date and accurate technology available. More information on Hair Analysis can be found at http://www.doctorsdata.com*

For optimal chelation results it is essential to:
1) accurately assess the need for chelation
2) establish a baseline measurement of the number, type and amount of toxic metals present prior to chelation
3) determine whether trace mineral metabolism is impaired
4) monitor the progress of the chelation.
Individuals differ vastly in their ability to excrete heavy metals, monitoring of the chelation process is essential since some persons, especially those with derangement of trace mineral metabolism, may require multiple cycles of chelation†.

Hair Analysis vs. Blood and Urine Analysis
Our intention was to find a biomarker that would give us the best indication of overall efficacy. We believe the best to be Total Toxic Metal Body Burden. Many other chelation products have published studies showing increases of a single toxic metal such as lead or mercury in urine and blood after being challenged by the chelator tested. However, measurements of metals in urine and blood provide an indication of only transient changes in metal levels. Urinary levels are a reflection of how much metal is being cleared from blood by the kidneys during a relatively brief interval (hours). Blood levels tend to be transient and within hours are cleared from blood and either excreted or deposited in various tissues.

Neither urine nor blood levels provide an indication of other pathways of excretion or of reduction of total body load. While an increased urinary level of lead or mercury provides an indication that a single toxic metal is being excreted, it does not provide data regarding how many other toxic metals are present or how much residual metal is left post- chelation. A recent study of DMSA challenge from Emory University in Atlanta revealed no correlation between past occupational exposure to mercury and mercury excretion before or after DMSA challenge.13 Furthermore, challenge studies incur a significant risk of serious side effects (see below) and also of kidney damage, particularly in older individuals. The best method for determining total toxic metal body burden would probably be some type of MRI spectroscopy. However, MRI for toxic metals has yet to be developed.

The most reliable and cost effective method commercially available, as well as the safest, is hair analysis by a quality laboratory. Hair analysis is very well documented and referenced with respect to measuring body burden of heavy metals such as Lead, Mercury, Cadmium, and Arsenic. The World Health Organization, the International Atomic Energy Agency, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency CDC, NIH and Justice Dept. have all recommended hair analysis for determination of heavy metals. . The EPA stated in a report "…if hair samples are properly collected and cleaned, and analyzed by the best analytic methods, using standards and blanks as required, in a clean and reliable laboratory by experienced personnel, the data are reliable." (USEPA 600/4-79-049). ).

Hair analysis provides a vast amount of information regarding toxic and trace minerals which relate to health and nutrition, at a tiny fraction of the cost of other methods such as blood and urine testing, which only reflect recent, but not longer term toxic metal exposure. Just as the measurement of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c} has been found to be a more accurate measure of average blood sugar levels than random blood glucose levels, toxic metal levels in hair provide a more accurate reflection of toxic metal accumulation in the body. Furthermore, a single hair sample provides information concerning levels of an entire spectrum of toxic metals. Hair analysis frequently reveals exposure to several different toxic metals, which would not be apparent from a single blood or urine test. Since our study attempts to determine the efficacy of our formulation as a broad-spectrum chelating agent, hair analysis was the only viable choice.

Why We Feel Hair Analysis is the Best Way to Quantify Toxic Metals & Monitor Chelation
Hair analysis provides a wealth of information regarding number, type and amount of toxic metals, levels of trace minerals and derangement of trace mineral metabolism, adrenal and thyroid function, fast vs slow oxidizers and indications of Vitamin D levels, and adequacy of sulfur reserves. The data are indicative of persistent issues (weeks to months) whereas blood levels of toxic metals are transient since they are cleared from the blood within hours and either deposited in tissues or excreted. Urinary levels are also transient since they reflect how much metal is being cleared from blood by the kidneys during a relatively brief period (hours). Neither blood nor urine levels provide an indication of other pathways of excretion or of reduction of body load.

The best technology for determining total toxic metal body burden would probably be some type of MRI spectroscopy. However, MRI for toxic metals is not available at this time. Challenge tests necessarily involve some risk, including risk of kidney damage, risk of toxic redistribution of mercury or lead, as well as a variable degree of oxidative stress and exacerbation of glutathione depletion. While an increased urinary level of mercury or lead provides an indication that a single toxic metal is being excreted, it does not provide data regarding how many other toxic metals are present or how much residual metal is left post chelation. Nor do challenge tests provide any indication of trace mineral derangement, which appears to be an indication that extended chelation is required. A recent study of DMSA challenge from Emory University in Atlanta revealed no correlation between past occupational exposure and mercury excretion before or after DMSA challenge. On the other hand, hair analysis is an accepted procedure with the EPA, ATSDR, WHO, CDC, NIH and the US Department of Justice. We use and recommend Doctor’s Data, Inc* for hair analysis because of their superior technology, extensive experience and high quality service†.

New Light Shed on Hair Analysis and Hidden Toxicities
Recent advances in the interpretation of hair analysis have greatly increased the accuracy and usefulness of hair analysis as a tool for determining the severity of metal toxicity. In the past, there has been an awareness that high levels of toxic metals in the body were frequently not manifested in hair samples causing a negative perception regarding the accuracy of hair analysis. However, in his book “Hair Test Interpretation: Finding Hidden Toxicities”, Andrew Hall Cutler, Ph.D., P.E* has demonstrated how heavy metals cause derangement of essential mineral metabolism resulting in impaired excretion of these toxic metals. Specific criteria for identifying this situation are presented allowing the correct interpretation of this condition. With effective chelation the derangements of essential mineral metabolism and toxic metal excretion are corrected so that toxic metal levels in hair are once again accurately represented. We highly recommend this 298 page book (available through Science Formulas® Inc. Online Store). Utilizing Cutler’s criteria*, we reviewed and reinterpreted over 400 hair analyses with stunning results, allowing us to clearly identify persons with significant metal accumulations and impaired toxic metal excretion†.

Why We Use Only Doctors Data* for Hair Analysis
Doctors Data Laboratory* was selected as our preferred testing laboratory due to its established quality controls and longstanding reputation with other government agencies including The World Health Organization, the International Atomic Energy Agency, EPA, ATSDR, CDC, NIH and Justice Dept.. Blood & Hair Elemental profiles are measured with ICP-Mass Spectroscopy, and reported back with established comparative reference ranges along with actual results. Doctor’s Data’s* reference ranges are established using the standardized protocol published by NCCLS. Reference ranges are determined using a comparative decision making process, utilizing Doctor’s Data’s* hundreds of thousands of patient data and an American healthy population study. Doctor’s Data* has scored consistently high on the CLIA mandated CAP, Le Centre de Toxicologie du Quebec, and New York Department of Health proficiency testing programs (PT), and performs interlaboratory comparisons with other labs that use ICP-MS such as Mayo Medical Labs.

Doctor’s Data* has comparable results to other laboratories using ICP-MS as demonstrated by our successful participation in the comparison program for hair analysis by ICP-MS offered by Le Centre de Toxicologie du Quebec. A summary of Doctor’s Data* proficiency testing program results is available upon request. In addition to PT, Doctor’s Data* has extensive Quality Control processes that ensure precision and reliability which include calibration verification and monitoring standards; preparation blanks; laboratory controls and reference materials (low, medium, and high controls); spiked samples and duplicate analyses. Doctor’s Data* uses a state-of-the-art laboratory clean room specially designed for trace element analysis, which includes metal-free walls, floors, and ceilings, ultra-pure water, and HEPA filtration systems.

Doctor’s Data* uses a modified version of the standardized sample preparation method published by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA/RL/50, Vienna). This method consists of cutting the hair into .3cm pieces and mixing to obtain a representative sample, washing the hair three times with Triton X-100 to remove external contamination, and rinsing with acetone and de-ionized water twice. The sample is then digested using trace metal free nitric acid and temperature controlled microwave digestion. This method has been demonstrated to remove external contamination yet retain volatile elements that can be cooked off using other methods such as open beaker digestion. For more information on Doctor’s Data’s* method, see "Preparation of Hair for Measurement of Elements by Inductively Coupled-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)", Biological Trace Element Research, Vol. 62, 1998

What You Get in Each Hair Analysis Kit
Collecting your hair sample is simple and convenient. You will get detailed collection instructions, sample collection bag, hair scale and a pre-addressed return envelope. Each analysis requires .25 grams of hair and tests for 16 potentially toxic heavy metals as well as 23 essential elements. The results of your Hair Analysis include a complementary phone interpretation with Alan Greenberg M.D.† to help you better understand the data.

How to Submit Your Hair Sample
1. Cut samples of the young hair at the back of the head at the neck area. If there is any concern about chemicals on your head hair, pubic hair samples are commonly submitted for analysis. Use stainless steel scissors and cut the hair as close to the scalp as possible. It is best if small amounts of hair are cut from 5 or 6 areas at the back of the head.

2. As each piece of hair is cut from the head, save only 1-inch (2.5 cm) of the hair closest to the scalp (new growth). Cut off and discard the rest. If your hair is too short to cut, pubic hair can be submitted, or thinning shears may be used to obtain the hair sample by placing them close to the scalp.

3. Collection of 0.25 grams of hair is a sufficient amount of hair to collect. This is approximately equal to a heaping tablespoon. Place the hair in the sample bag provided with the kit and seal. Indicate on the sample bag if the sample is head or pubic hair (send a sufficient amount of hair, more hair is better than not enough).

4. Fill out all information on the form included in your kit completely. Insert hair sample bag (with hair sample) and the completed information form into the pre-addressed envelope included, seal and mail with proper postage.

Hair Analysis Results
You will receive your results back in approximately 7-10 days. An electronic file will be sent to your email and/or a hardcopy will be sent to you or your doctor in the mail. You may now call 1-800-675-4568 to arrange a time for Alan Greenberg M.D. to interpret your results with you† or if you are doing this Hair Analysis under your practitioner's supervision you would then consult with them. This Hair Analysis tests for levels of 16 Heavy Metals and 23 Essential Minerals, Click here to see a Hair Analysis Sample Report. Science Formulas® Inc. highly recommends a Hair Analysis prior to our Chelorex® oral chelation protocol to provide a baseline and another Hair Analysis 30 days after your last Chelorex® dose (90th dose/ See separate sfi_chelorex_protocol_2007 flyer for more details).

Wow Ruby Thanks this is a lot of information, I am going to have to print this off and read it.  I have heard of this procedure.  Thanks for the information, and I will keep you posted!

sherry/smomdukes

Thank you for the information.  At this time the MS is a walk in the park!  On the other hand, the depression I have battled for more than 40 yrs. (congenital on my father's side, he committed suicide at 42 yrs. of age) is at best a rain cloud that follows me everywhere, everyday; at its worst suicide is most prevalent in my thoughts.  How wonderful it would be to just lay down and quietly die.  The pain of depression would be lifted and, my family would not be subjected to a side of myself that I am not particularly poud of.

My mother on the other hand, has nothing to do with the MS except causing my symptoms to be worse from the grief she gives me over any innocuous comment.  Sometimes even saying that the weather is good today can bring a string of words from way out in left field!  I wish that she could see how she is pushing me and, the boys away with both hands, actually, more like a shove.  I do know I can't change her, only the way I react to her.  Thought I was getting the hang of finding excuses to get off the phone when she gets started!  Totally blindsided, again!, this week.  the additional meds have made a huge difference to my emotional issues and, as I have for at least 45 yrs., will find away to put her in a place that she is more manageable.

Warm regards,

Sherry O

Ruby,

I am sorry it has taken me almost 4 months to respond to your thoughts about the rocky relationship between my mother & I.  Firstly, my father's suicide was not due to anything my mother said or did, he was an alcoholic who self medicated with the alcohol.  Unfortunately, what he didn't know, alcohol is a depressant, therefore he was falling deeper & deeper into the abyss of depression.  My parents split when I was about 8 due to the effects the alcohol was having on the family.  Just as men getting help for depression, divorce in the early '70's was not something family & some friends were very supportive; many felt divorce was wrong no matter what you had to live like!  When my father was sober, usually after he smashed up his car, I remember a very fun-loving man.  I know I get my love of animals from him, hence my first life included college to become an Animal Health Technician.  We always had pets even after the divorce. I have chosen to keep the good memories of the short time my father was part of my life.  He chose not to have visitation rights as he felt he would be an embarrassment to my brothers and I.  Part of the vows my husband had to make was that if he takes me, he gets the animals, I don't bake and, I don't make gravy!  I think he thought the animals meant the two cats I had at the time we we're married.  Wrong!  I was the Executive Administrator of the oldest privately owned Zoo in North America for a couple of years.  Any animal that needed transporting if the Keepers were unable to do, I did.  If it fit in my van, we were good to go!  Because of my Animal Health background, if an animal needed round the clock care or observation, I often had them home.  Usually, involved tube feeding, injections or trying different ways & food to get them eating and, since they were usually babies, keeping them warm.  We've had lions, tigers, pygmy goats and, I raised a Serval from the day he was born.  Serval females do not make good mothers and, will often eat their young.  We named him Percival the Serval.  He went to work with me and, back home at night.  At about 9 mos. old, the "wild child" emerged.   It became less & less practical to keep him at the house d.t. his scratching & biting the kids & there were always more than mine in the house!  He was still fine with me but, he did not like the male keepers.  I had to take him in & out of his cage.  He always started to purr when I came in.  My boys had some amazing experiences when I worked there but, the zoo's peak period was also the time my boys & husband (teacher) were off & I was at the zoo from 7:30am to 9pm most days.  Not much quality time with the family.

My second life was working as a Case Manager for an agency that provided services to help seniors and people living with disabilities, to be able to stay in their own homes.  I did the needs assessments to determine what help was required and, then made it happen.  I had a staff of 25 who provided these services which, were care of the environment tasks that included scrubbung the floor, vaccuming, any of the heavier tasks they could no longer do because of health issue.  Clients were encouraged to continue doing the light housekeeping tasks as they were able.  I also had students who did grass cutting, gardening, window cleaning, snow shovelling, mostly the outside tasks.  I did this for 10 years, very involved in the community & church.  To my amazement, after 10 years of marriage, I became pregnant!  22 months later along came our 2nd gift!!  My children became my third life.  When they went to school, I went back to work.  Sometimes it was with animals, more often in the social service sector, though.

Cognitive issues, way off track.  Sorry about that!  My mother, I believe was happy before my father started to drink.  She was raised by her grandmother and, in her md-teens', became the caregiver of a mostly bed-ridden elderly woman who had to wear diapers due to incontinance.  No Depends in those days!  My mother's mother died of cancer when my mother was only 2 yrs. old.  My mother continued to live at the farm until her father remarried a couple of years later.  Off to her grandmothers' & sometimes to her aunt & uncles' whom she adored.  Her father had 3 more children from his second marriage.  Why he didn't allow his first born to live with them will always be a mystery.  We always joked that they were the Christmas Day Family & we were the Boxing Day Family.  I was the first grandchild & the only granddaughter for almost 20 yrs.  Because I could have been twins with my mother's mother, I was treated very well by my grandfather.  I used to think that the only woman I knew as Grandma, must have hated me because everytime he saw me, he would remark on how much I looked like Alice (my mother's mother).  He was a miserable man to his family.  Said some very unkind things to all family members.  For as Long as I can remember, I would not put up with his disrespectful behaviour & told him so.  I seemed to be the only one who could and, have no reprecussions.  I guess looking like Alice had its benefits.  To this day, I'm not aware of any of the other grandchildren being able to spend the night at the farm except me.  As I grew older & he grew more crotchety, I found by telling him I would come back another day when he was up to a pleasant visit.  He would do a 180 & I would stay.  I knew in my heart that he loved me.  I also knew that he gave me more attention than he gave to my mother.  How that must have hurt.  When he died, my mother & I were with him.  At the funeral home I had to keep looking in the casket to make sure I was in the right viewing room; everyone who came to pay their respects told us how kind & generous he was!  Definately, not a side of himself he shared with his family.  I was so sure I'd never be invited back to the farm or see my grandmother again.  I knew we'd see my Uncle, he was very special to us.  To my delight for the first time, we all spent Christmas together and, did so as travel would permit, ever since his death.  I had the most amazing 10 years with my grandmother.  I put off going back for two weeks, eventhough I knew she was dying, I wasn't ready to lose her.  She died about 4 hrs. after I arrived at the farm.  It was her wish to die at home.  I laid beside her and, told her how much I loved her and, how greatful I was for the time we had together and, that she was able to meet my boys before she died.  She could not speak but, I know she heard me.

My mother never opened herself up to people.  It is the major difference between us, I love people and, speak to everyone.  As I tell my boys, a smile & hello costs us nothing but, we may have been the only people to acknowledge them that day, week, etc.  I vowed when I had my boys that they would be raised to make sure other people knew they mattered, regardless of their station in life.  The homeless were as important as the wealthy.  They also would be told how much they were loved & how proud of them we were and, they would know how to give and be given tons of hugs.  The first hug I gave my mother was when I left for college.  She is still not comfortable with them but, getting better.

Since that horrible conversation, I made another attempt to reach out to her.  I told her that both of us had major health issues and, it would be a shame to not take the time to get to know one another and, move forward.  We've got 30 yrs. to make up for.   Only God knows why I am so different in my view of the world but, I have told my mother on many occaisions that I get my strength from her and, I do recognize all the sacrifices she made to keep our little family together and, I can only pay her back by continuing to draw from the incredible strength she gave me through her examples when dealing with the crappy things life has thrown her way.

I think we are finally on the same page, kind of!  I told her I would continue to challenge her comfort zone and, I agreed to be a little less chatty.  Yes, I talk like I write, something else I must have gotten from my father! 

Thanks for listening, again!

Many hugs,

SherryO