Refusing Treatment

A woman with terminal cancer returns to religion with fervor. She knows that God will help her get better.

Early in her sickness, a surgeon proposes radical surgery.

“No”, she says, “I don’t want to get mutilated and suffer pain. It’s not necessary, God will help me”.

A while later, she sees a radiologist and he proposes radiation to treat the tumor, which by now is uncomfortably large. “No”, she says, “I don’t want radiation burns inside and out. It’s not necessary. God will help me.”

A year later, the cancer has metastasized. It’s painful and she is referred to an oncologist. Chemotherapy is advised. “No”, she says, “I don’t want to be sick all the time and lose my hair as well. It’s not necessary. God will help me”.

Soon after, she dies. She goes to Heaven and demands an audience with God. “Why didn’t you help me?,” she whines.

“What do you mean? I sent you help three times: a surgeon, a radiologist and an oncologist. What more did you want?”