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Plague: One Scientist's Intrepid Search for the Truth about Human Retroviruses and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), Autism, and Other Diseases
On July 22, 2009, a special meeting was held with twenty-four leading scientists at the National Institutes of Health to discuss early findings that a newly discovered retrovirus was linked to chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), prostate cancer, lymphoma, and eventually neurodevelopmental disorders in children. When Dr. Judy Mikovits finished her presentation the room was silent for a moment, then one of the scientists said, �Oh my God!” The resulting investigation would be like no other in science.
For Dr. Mikovits, a twenty-year veteran of the National Cancer Institute, this was the midpoint of a five-year journey that would start with the founding of the Whittemore-Peterson Institute for Neuro-Immune Disease at the University of Nevada, Reno, and end with her as a witness for the federal government against her former employer, Harvey Whittemore, for illegal campaign contributions to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid.
On this journey Dr. Mikovits would face the scientific prejudices against CFS, wander into the minefield that is autism, and through it all struggle to maintain her faith in God and the profession to which she had dedicated her life. This is a story for anybody interested in the peril and promise of science at the very highest levels in our country.
For Dr. Mikovits, a twenty-year veteran of the National Cancer Institute, this was the midpoint of a five-year journey that would start with the founding of the Whittemore-Peterson Institute for Neuro-Immune Disease at the University of Nevada, Reno, and end with her as a witness for the federal government against her former employer, Harvey Whittemore, for illegal campaign contributions to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid.
On this journey Dr. Mikovits would face the scientific prejudices against CFS, wander into the minefield that is autism, and through it all struggle to maintain her faith in God and the profession to which she had dedicated her life. This is a story for anybody interested in the peril and promise of science at the very highest levels in our country.
464 pages, ebook
First published February 4, 2014
781 people are currently reading
1043 people want to read
About the author
Kent Heckenlively
21 books74 followersWhen I was fourteen years old I submitted my first story to ANALOG magazine, devoted to short science fiction stories. My story did not get accepted, but I did get a gentle rejection letter which told me to keep writing. In college I wrote my first novel, spent many years writing screenplays, and eventually ran across a story I thought I could turn into a non-fiction story. That was PLAGUE, co-authored with Dr. Judy Mikovits.
In between writing, I worked a summer for a United States Senator, spent two summers chasing bad guys at the United States Attorney's Office, and spent six weeks in a virus lab where I worked with Ebola.
In college I was a double major in English and Political Science, served as Head of our Model United Nations team, and was our school's Rhodes Scholar Candidate. In law school I was a writer and editor for law review, and also won top honors in our Mock Trial class.
I worked as a lawyer with my dad for several years, then found myself drawn to my original love of science and became a science teacher. Now I get to teach science during the day and write about it at night.
In between writing, I worked a summer for a United States Senator, spent two summers chasing bad guys at the United States Attorney's Office, and spent six weeks in a virus lab where I worked with Ebola.
In college I was a double major in English and Political Science, served as Head of our Model United Nations team, and was our school's Rhodes Scholar Candidate. In law school I was a writer and editor for law review, and also won top honors in our Mock Trial class.
I worked as a lawyer with my dad for several years, then found myself drawn to my original love of science and became a science teacher. Now I get to teach science during the day and write about it at night.
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August 8, 2020
When Ignaz Semmelweis discovered that doctor hand washing between patients prevented patient death by puerperal fever, you would think people would be happy about it. The patients - mothers of newly birthed babies - were certainly happy to NOT BE DEAD. But not everyone was happy. Semmelweis's colleagues were not happy. No, these learned doctors were upset that Semmelweis' hypothesis made it look as though they were the ones giving puerperal fever to their female patients. They were not in the habit of washing their hands, & it was absurd for anyone to suggest that they should. They were mad, BECAUSE THEY DIDN'T WANT TO WASH THEIR HANDS.
Semmelweis lost his job & credibility due to his outspoken insistence that it was a real problem. He eventually went crazy & died a young man, in a mental asylum, from, of all things, sepsis. The end.
But things have improved since those medical dark ages, no? Hand washing has increased, at least. More hand washing, sure, but things are NOT much different in the area of research & new ideas, when egos & money come into play. It's the same ol' story that prompted Mikovits to write this book; her defense. Her defense against naysayers in the scientific community, as well as vindictive financial opportunists, who, metaphorically speaking, refused to properly wash their hands.
This books reads much like a season of Sarah Koenig's Serial. It's full of intrigue & outrageous misuses of power. Part scientific paper, part true crime story, the narrative jumps between explaining Mikovits's work researching the possible cause of MECFS, & the dramatic way her employers sabotaged her rights to due process. Mikovits encountered a perfect storm of betrayal from her employers, & an unwillingness from her scientific colleagues to properly evaluate her research; a research that has damning implications, but more importantly, hope for thousands of patients suffering from various health problems. It's THAT big. Mikovits rocked the boat. Big time. But it was the patients that Mikovits had in view with her research, & her unwavering, bull-dog relentlessness to press the issue, & to continue the fight. At this time, this book is her only recourse to continue that fight.
The "unfortunate" timing of the disintegrating relationship with her employers, along with the dismissal of her theories from her scientific colleagues, might actually be fortuitous in the long run. The attention received by the legal battle with her former employers, serves to bring more attention to her scientific research. Mikovits was poorly treated, but as Mikovits might acknowledge, in the end - what man has planned for evil, God has used for good.
I listened to this book on Audible, & I recommend that as an engaging way to process the extensive amount of information presented.
Semmelweis lost his job & credibility due to his outspoken insistence that it was a real problem. He eventually went crazy & died a young man, in a mental asylum, from, of all things, sepsis. The end.
But things have improved since those medical dark ages, no? Hand washing has increased, at least. More hand washing, sure, but things are NOT much different in the area of research & new ideas, when egos & money come into play. It's the same ol' story that prompted Mikovits to write this book; her defense. Her defense against naysayers in the scientific community, as well as vindictive financial opportunists, who, metaphorically speaking, refused to properly wash their hands.
This books reads much like a season of Sarah Koenig's Serial. It's full of intrigue & outrageous misuses of power. Part scientific paper, part true crime story, the narrative jumps between explaining Mikovits's work researching the possible cause of MECFS, & the dramatic way her employers sabotaged her rights to due process. Mikovits encountered a perfect storm of betrayal from her employers, & an unwillingness from her scientific colleagues to properly evaluate her research; a research that has damning implications, but more importantly, hope for thousands of patients suffering from various health problems. It's THAT big. Mikovits rocked the boat. Big time. But it was the patients that Mikovits had in view with her research, & her unwavering, bull-dog relentlessness to press the issue, & to continue the fight. At this time, this book is her only recourse to continue that fight.
The "unfortunate" timing of the disintegrating relationship with her employers, along with the dismissal of her theories from her scientific colleagues, might actually be fortuitous in the long run. The attention received by the legal battle with her former employers, serves to bring more attention to her scientific research. Mikovits was poorly treated, but as Mikovits might acknowledge, in the end - what man has planned for evil, God has used for good.
I listened to this book on Audible, & I recommend that as an engaging way to process the extensive amount of information presented.
March 6, 2018
Didn't realize this would be a rah-rah conspiracy theory story about an anti-vaxxer. I saved a few hours by reading her Wikipedia entry instead.
May 8, 2020
May 8, 2020. Note: current evidence available on this author/researcher leads me to dismiss or at least be more suspicious of her research in this book. I am leaving the original review because there are still issues with women in science and challenges to the established system.
This is a book that shows the best of science and the worse: scientists and researchers who are ethical, diligent and passionate about finding the truth and making that truth available to the scientific world and to the public at large, and scientists and researchers, corporations and political interests who seem more interested in their own fame and/or fortune (or at least those who can be pressured to toe the establishment line).
For those readers interested in retroviruses and their possible link to chronic fatigue syndrome, autism, Lyme disease, Parkinson's and some forms of cancers, this book offers fascinating insights into the meticulous research of Judy Mikovits, and the legal/scientific case to destroy her reputation and case study results.
My background was working in microbiology and cytopathology labs, so I appreciated the abundant sections taken from the scientific papers. The primary author here (the literary author) makes sure to follow up with a layman's overview so the implications are not lost to those untrained in science. I can imagine for many readers Judy's court problems come as a shock.
Not since middle childhood, when my dream of being a scientist first ran up against the reality of how science can be manipulated, have I believed that the truth always wins simply because science is about Truth. My husband insists in science the truth does win and when I started to mention the gist of the book, he (being a science editor) had little sympathy for Mikovits' case (she just needs to keep up her research).
I consider this attitude equally naive. I think back forty years to a radio interviewer of a doctor who discovered that the body's own immune system could be stimulated to fight cancer. Despite other doctors watching as tumors dissolved before their very eyes, the doctor of the original research was dismissed and eventually shunned. Big money was being made in chemotherapy and radiation. I remember the bitterness he felt as the community pushed him out and silenced his research. Forty years later, I hear news announcing the 'breaking research' that scientists can now use the body's own immune system to fight cancer. Forty years later. (I won't even get into a female astrophysicist who was ridiculed for 80 years before being finally credited with a major discovery).
I contracted mononucleosis in high school, right during the time period mentioned as the outbreak of CFS. I've tested for high titers of Ebstein Barr antibodies. I've gone through most my life hearing CFS put down or dismissed (like many who suffer through CFS). I certainly never had the disease as bad as some, but I know by now when I am hanging on the edge, when to stop what I am doing and pay attention to the strange sore throats, swollen glands, ear pains, and bone-weary fatigue. If I can catch it in time, I can pull myself back into the functional world with careful attention to extra rest. Only when I push too hard or go through unusual periods of stress do I find myself barely able to stumble to bed or do I need to sleep for ridiculous amounts of time. I have called it "the sleeping sickness" but I know the look in other people's eyes to this explanation (or to blaming it on CFS). I have always been grateful I did not have one of the more severe cases of CFS that might have left me bed-ridden for months or years.
Why give this book three stars? First, I am delighted to read of Dr. Judy Mikovits and her research, troubled but not (unfortunately) surprised at her being blackballed. The fact she was a woman only increases the odds of her being shunned (at least in my experience). If the public groups related to retroviruses were to join forces they might be able to force research funding. I do not expect speedy answers and treatments.
This book did present some troubling options as I age. Already I see more periods where I hang on the edge. To learn that Parkinson's and cancer might be part of my future means my best option is to plan for the worse: work harder to strengthen the immune system and develop lifestyle patterns that help reduce other risk factors for possible serious health problems.
As for the writing: there, I was not as thrilled by the book as some of the other reviewers. The main author jumps time periods, which obviously was used to keep up suspense. You hear about the research. You see a respected doctor being locked up. Back and forth in time, trying to piece together how this all went wrong. At times I found this confusing, as every chapter skipped forward and backward through multiple periods. It took paragraphs to sort out when in the timetable this action took place. I think there was more emphasis put on "building the suspense" than on outlining the actual story. Perhaps the lay public finds this more entertaining. I was not enamored by the writing format.
This is a book that shows the best of science and the worse: scientists and researchers who are ethical, diligent and passionate about finding the truth and making that truth available to the scientific world and to the public at large, and scientists and researchers, corporations and political interests who seem more interested in their own fame and/or fortune (or at least those who can be pressured to toe the establishment line).
For those readers interested in retroviruses and their possible link to chronic fatigue syndrome, autism, Lyme disease, Parkinson's and some forms of cancers, this book offers fascinating insights into the meticulous research of Judy Mikovits, and the legal/scientific case to destroy her reputation and case study results.
My background was working in microbiology and cytopathology labs, so I appreciated the abundant sections taken from the scientific papers. The primary author here (the literary author) makes sure to follow up with a layman's overview so the implications are not lost to those untrained in science. I can imagine for many readers Judy's court problems come as a shock.
Not since middle childhood, when my dream of being a scientist first ran up against the reality of how science can be manipulated, have I believed that the truth always wins simply because science is about Truth. My husband insists in science the truth does win and when I started to mention the gist of the book, he (being a science editor) had little sympathy for Mikovits' case (she just needs to keep up her research).
I consider this attitude equally naive. I think back forty years to a radio interviewer of a doctor who discovered that the body's own immune system could be stimulated to fight cancer. Despite other doctors watching as tumors dissolved before their very eyes, the doctor of the original research was dismissed and eventually shunned. Big money was being made in chemotherapy and radiation. I remember the bitterness he felt as the community pushed him out and silenced his research. Forty years later, I hear news announcing the 'breaking research' that scientists can now use the body's own immune system to fight cancer. Forty years later. (I won't even get into a female astrophysicist who was ridiculed for 80 years before being finally credited with a major discovery).
I contracted mononucleosis in high school, right during the time period mentioned as the outbreak of CFS. I've tested for high titers of Ebstein Barr antibodies. I've gone through most my life hearing CFS put down or dismissed (like many who suffer through CFS). I certainly never had the disease as bad as some, but I know by now when I am hanging on the edge, when to stop what I am doing and pay attention to the strange sore throats, swollen glands, ear pains, and bone-weary fatigue. If I can catch it in time, I can pull myself back into the functional world with careful attention to extra rest. Only when I push too hard or go through unusual periods of stress do I find myself barely able to stumble to bed or do I need to sleep for ridiculous amounts of time. I have called it "the sleeping sickness" but I know the look in other people's eyes to this explanation (or to blaming it on CFS). I have always been grateful I did not have one of the more severe cases of CFS that might have left me bed-ridden for months or years.
Why give this book three stars? First, I am delighted to read of Dr. Judy Mikovits and her research, troubled but not (unfortunately) surprised at her being blackballed. The fact she was a woman only increases the odds of her being shunned (at least in my experience). If the public groups related to retroviruses were to join forces they might be able to force research funding. I do not expect speedy answers and treatments.
This book did present some troubling options as I age. Already I see more periods where I hang on the edge. To learn that Parkinson's and cancer might be part of my future means my best option is to plan for the worse: work harder to strengthen the immune system and develop lifestyle patterns that help reduce other risk factors for possible serious health problems.
As for the writing: there, I was not as thrilled by the book as some of the other reviewers. The main author jumps time periods, which obviously was used to keep up suspense. You hear about the research. You see a respected doctor being locked up. Back and forth in time, trying to piece together how this all went wrong. At times I found this confusing, as every chapter skipped forward and backward through multiple periods. It took paragraphs to sort out when in the timetable this action took place. I think there was more emphasis put on "building the suspense" than on outlining the actual story. Perhaps the lay public finds this more entertaining. I was not enamored by the writing format.
April 25, 2019
A well-respected scientist studying immunology and viruses discovers that vaccines grown in mice cells contain a retrovirus known as myalgic encephalomyelitis, a virus which causes swelling of the brain, leading to chronic fatigue and other crippling symptoms. This virus is thought to have affected as many as 25 million people, including myself. When Judy Mikovits presented her findings to her superiors, she felt confident that they would act to protect the public and halt the vaccination program as we know it. But instead, they tried to silence her, undermine her findings, and bury the evidence.
Mikovits' discovery is very similar to the findings years earlier that HIV was a man made disease, due to vaccines being developed in the cells of monkeys. In monkeys, the HIV virus is not serious, but transferred to humans, it is devastating to health. ME has also caused much damage to human health.
I'm so grateful for Mikovits' bravery in speaking out and standing up to powerful pharmacuetical companies. She has been imprisoned (unlawfully), had death threats, and her reputation has been smeared, not unlike Suzanne Humphries, another hero of mine. Both of these women are courageous Christians, who answer to a higher moral calling and who care about their fellow man.
Mikovits' discovery is very similar to the findings years earlier that HIV was a man made disease, due to vaccines being developed in the cells of monkeys. In monkeys, the HIV virus is not serious, but transferred to humans, it is devastating to health. ME has also caused much damage to human health.
I'm so grateful for Mikovits' bravery in speaking out and standing up to powerful pharmacuetical companies. She has been imprisoned (unlawfully), had death threats, and her reputation has been smeared, not unlike Suzanne Humphries, another hero of mine. Both of these women are courageous Christians, who answer to a higher moral calling and who care about their fellow man.
April 21, 2017
True account of what happens in the world of science when money and mass hysteria are at stake. If you want to know how the research world works and how tainted our vaccines are, read this book. There are many reasons why vaccines can cause chronic fatigue (ME/CFS) and other neurologic problems. Judy Mikovits, PhD researched one: hidden viruses in vaccines. The book details how her findings were ridiculed, silenced, and how she was even put in jail for wanting to continue important research. The writing is verbose and there needed to be a very good editor to delete at least 1/4 of the book. But you can't get this information anywhere else. Large-ish book but a must read if you want to be in the know.
October 14, 2018
This is an amazing look behind the scenes of the scientific establishment and how research pioneers may be disparaged and even driven from the science community. Judy Mikovits, an honest, meticulous researcher, published a rigorous study in 2006 about a retrovirus that was associated with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and possibly with autism. She was vilified by the scientific community, yet now the leading researchers who participated in her downfall are investigating the issues she raised, although they are carefully avoiding the conclusions she drew. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the scientific process, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, vaccines, and autism.
July 10, 2019
Personally, I think this book is part complete and udder unscientific propaganda, and part a loving memoir of a scientist who did nothing wrong. These view points don't contradict, and I'll tell you why:
Firstly, it has been proven that there is no direct link with vaccines and autism. NONE. If a scientist doesn't accept that, then there sure as hell must be a reason other than "I had a patient come in, get a vaccine, and then poof. She's got autism." Clearly, Mikovits wants to state that there IS no direct link, but there is an indirect stimulant in the vaccine which causes an autism responsible gene to activate. But that justs isn't how it works, though.
Next, I do think that this book is just a historic count of the discoveries of XMRV, HIV, Autism, and their relationship to the life of Mikovits and the other scientists mentioned in the book. It is interesting to see just how far we've come in a relatively short amount of time.
My favorite part of the book was actually the depiction of the daily life of someone with ME/CFS. Without a doubt, I had no idea just how much these people were suffering, both physically and mentally (since they are being eaten alive by the fact that science hasn't found a cure or cause yet).
With the virology in check, it's time for the analysis of Mikovits herself. Seemingly, she doesn't care to mess with those who critic her. She's tough, and I find that to be a admirable character of a scientist. But, she was thrown in prison! Why? To be honest, I couldn't follow, but it had to do with her relationship with Lombardi and the Whittemores. I found this to be an interesting part of the book, too. The final thing I should add is that this book jumps around a lot! This does make it hard to follow. Also, it's difficult to understand for a non-scientist. I recommend doing some online research on the Mikovits case and the science against her before you make a final judgement of her character.
Firstly, it has been proven that there is no direct link with vaccines and autism. NONE. If a scientist doesn't accept that, then there sure as hell must be a reason other than "I had a patient come in, get a vaccine, and then poof. She's got autism." Clearly, Mikovits wants to state that there IS no direct link, but there is an indirect stimulant in the vaccine which causes an autism responsible gene to activate. But that justs isn't how it works, though.
Next, I do think that this book is just a historic count of the discoveries of XMRV, HIV, Autism, and their relationship to the life of Mikovits and the other scientists mentioned in the book. It is interesting to see just how far we've come in a relatively short amount of time.
My favorite part of the book was actually the depiction of the daily life of someone with ME/CFS. Without a doubt, I had no idea just how much these people were suffering, both physically and mentally (since they are being eaten alive by the fact that science hasn't found a cure or cause yet).
With the virology in check, it's time for the analysis of Mikovits herself. Seemingly, she doesn't care to mess with those who critic her. She's tough, and I find that to be a admirable character of a scientist. But, she was thrown in prison! Why? To be honest, I couldn't follow, but it had to do with her relationship with Lombardi and the Whittemores. I found this to be an interesting part of the book, too. The final thing I should add is that this book jumps around a lot! This does make it hard to follow. Also, it's difficult to understand for a non-scientist. I recommend doing some online research on the Mikovits case and the science against her before you make a final judgement of her character.
February 13, 2018
An astonishing read. How the hierarchy of scientific research can treat their colleagues in this way and still retain any respect is amazing. I cannot believe how much corruption and intimidation there is in this world. When a Dr is penalised by her peers for trying to help people with long term suffering the world has gone mad!
I read this book in the hope that new research might mean that my daughter (has ME/CFS) will not have to suffer as long as I have with debilitating illness (I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fibromyagia) It appears as if no one is looking for a cure and many scientists are only looking to benefit themselves.
Apart from the science I was overall quite disappointed with the way the book was written, the lack of cohesion throughout and the many grammar and spelling errors!
I read this book in the hope that new research might mean that my daughter (has ME/CFS) will not have to suffer as long as I have with debilitating illness (I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fibromyagia) It appears as if no one is looking for a cure and many scientists are only looking to benefit themselves.
Apart from the science I was overall quite disappointed with the way the book was written, the lack of cohesion throughout and the many grammar and spelling errors!
February 17, 2018
I found this book fascinating however I can see its not for everyone. Firstly I am interested in health and have a little bit of knowledge of medical procedures (not a lot... a little), however its not necessary to have any knowledge. Plague is a true story of how ego, power and corruption can taint even the most dedicated scientists and researchers. This is the story of an honest, dedicated and authentic medical scientist and how the system simply steam-roller over her. She was too honest and the world is not ready for that just yet. The story line (although heavy with necessary medical procedures) is lively and kept my interest all the way through. Because the authors understand that the average reader may not understand medical terminology, they took pains to explain the procedures in basic layman language.
February 17, 2015
It seems like a sci-fi thriller but unfortunately is the real life. A book that every one with a chronic and unexplained immune-related illness must read. In this book Dr. Mikovits depicts how the north-american justice systems behaves and how the influence and money corrupted guys controls everything. It also clearly explains the evidence that she and her team has found about a retrovirus behind the chronic innate immune system activation and the subsequent immunosuppression.
September 5, 2019
Plague
by Kent Heckenlively & Judy Mikovits, PhD
If you’re into medical anomalies or social collapse, you’ll be interested in this book.
The focus of the book is the adventurous 30-year career of Dr. Judy Mikovits, Ph.D. Spending the better part of her life learning details and developing skills that would normally make her a success, instead, she was punished for paying attention to technical, medical and social details.
Dr. Mikovits studied and worked with HIV/AIDS, along with micro-organisms, both human and animal that happened to cause some of the more mysterious diseases and conditions of the past 75 years. Her recent problems came when dealing with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS).
Her work ethic, methods, and conclusions were scientifically sound. A multitude of problems came when she applied social judgments to benefactors, contributors, and co-workers. Her industrial naiveté came when she applied a social judgement to the sub-culture of scientific sycophants. Thinking that they had the same motivations and goals were her mistake. Economics and power altered her science and work patterns so severely that it began to destroy her.
The book is well laid out. Each chapter is readable by itself. Almost four hundred pages will take you a while to get thru but in the end, it is worth the time invested.
You’ll need some background in the criminal justice system, scientific jargon or a good dictionary and thesaurus. The technical verbiage might get a little overwhelming but the general ideas are digestible once you break down each thought or circumstance.
The basic faux pas to her story is that she stepped on the third rail of science, medicine, and big pharma. When Dr. Mikovits mentioned VACCINES and AUTISM in the same breath as ME/CFS her world changed. She was no longer playing the scientific game as a team member. She became a renegade. A curmudgeon. A bull in the china shop of the über wealthy.
The history of extraordinary women in science is hidden but discoverable. First, there was Dr. Alice Hamilton (February 27, 1869 – September 22, 1970) and the development of Occupational Medicine. When she began asking questions that cost industrialist money, she was viewed with a suspicious eye by the establishment. Dr. Hamilton was successful in changing work habits. However, her work wasn’t appreciated during her lifetime. Laws began changing about Lead poisoning in around 1972. They are constantly being revisited.
Second, came, Dr. Alice Stewart and her self-motivated and financed study of radioactivity and the illnesses that it causes were society altering. Her calamity came when she asked the Pentagon the results of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki studies done post-war.
Third, is the closest scenario to Dr. Mikovits’ experience. Dr. Bernice Eddy was a revolutionary, changing the way we look at vaccines today. This woman was truly extraordinary. She identified the SV-40 Virus in the Polio Vaccine that essentially ended her viability as a scientist. The question that no one has ever asked is, “what about the other thirty-nine Simian Viruses? Could they be reeking havoc on our society today?” And, “could anyone of them or in symphony be recombining with XMRV (Xenotropic Murine Leukemia Virus-Related Virus) to deliver a worldwide pandemic?”
She predicted an explosion of cancer within the ‘baby boom generation’. Today (2019) the last figures that I have heard was 1 in 4 men will have cancer and 1 in 3 women will have cancer (no references). The World Cancer Research Fund has published figures as of 2018.
These figures are frightening enough without knowing that there might be a monkey or mouse virus causing them. The world is a scary place. What is contributing to these fears is the ‘Medical Community’s Commercial Brothel.’
The most frightening portion of the book is the description of Dr. Ian Lipkin’s press conference on September 14, 2012. Dr. Mikovits was there to enhance her chances of regaining a reputation mired. D. Lipkin tried to do that but he did more damage to the Scientific Community than reconstitute a reputation, in my opinion.
He began mentioning ‘man-made chimera viruses” and “H5N1 work being done in Rotterdam, Wisconsin, and Japan”. This was enough to make my blood boil. This collaboration of ‘Frankenstein’ mentalities will lead to no good ending.
The rear cover of the book spells out why you should read this book very effectively. They are all correct, yet somehow they don’t go far enough. Not being a doctor or scientist myself, I might go even farther.
This is a great book. It’s long but compelling in every way. If you know anything about the illnesses of ME/CFS, MS, Autism, Vaccines and even Cancer, you should be reading this book.
1 Chapter 20 Pages 366 & 367
by Kent Heckenlively & Judy Mikovits, PhD
If you’re into medical anomalies or social collapse, you’ll be interested in this book.
The focus of the book is the adventurous 30-year career of Dr. Judy Mikovits, Ph.D. Spending the better part of her life learning details and developing skills that would normally make her a success, instead, she was punished for paying attention to technical, medical and social details.
Dr. Mikovits studied and worked with HIV/AIDS, along with micro-organisms, both human and animal that happened to cause some of the more mysterious diseases and conditions of the past 75 years. Her recent problems came when dealing with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS).
Her work ethic, methods, and conclusions were scientifically sound. A multitude of problems came when she applied social judgments to benefactors, contributors, and co-workers. Her industrial naiveté came when she applied a social judgement to the sub-culture of scientific sycophants. Thinking that they had the same motivations and goals were her mistake. Economics and power altered her science and work patterns so severely that it began to destroy her.
The book is well laid out. Each chapter is readable by itself. Almost four hundred pages will take you a while to get thru but in the end, it is worth the time invested.
You’ll need some background in the criminal justice system, scientific jargon or a good dictionary and thesaurus. The technical verbiage might get a little overwhelming but the general ideas are digestible once you break down each thought or circumstance.
The basic faux pas to her story is that she stepped on the third rail of science, medicine, and big pharma. When Dr. Mikovits mentioned VACCINES and AUTISM in the same breath as ME/CFS her world changed. She was no longer playing the scientific game as a team member. She became a renegade. A curmudgeon. A bull in the china shop of the über wealthy.
The history of extraordinary women in science is hidden but discoverable. First, there was Dr. Alice Hamilton (February 27, 1869 – September 22, 1970) and the development of Occupational Medicine. When she began asking questions that cost industrialist money, she was viewed with a suspicious eye by the establishment. Dr. Hamilton was successful in changing work habits. However, her work wasn’t appreciated during her lifetime. Laws began changing about Lead poisoning in around 1972. They are constantly being revisited.
Second, came, Dr. Alice Stewart and her self-motivated and financed study of radioactivity and the illnesses that it causes were society altering. Her calamity came when she asked the Pentagon the results of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki studies done post-war.
Third, is the closest scenario to Dr. Mikovits’ experience. Dr. Bernice Eddy was a revolutionary, changing the way we look at vaccines today. This woman was truly extraordinary. She identified the SV-40 Virus in the Polio Vaccine that essentially ended her viability as a scientist. The question that no one has ever asked is, “what about the other thirty-nine Simian Viruses? Could they be reeking havoc on our society today?” And, “could anyone of them or in symphony be recombining with XMRV (Xenotropic Murine Leukemia Virus-Related Virus) to deliver a worldwide pandemic?”
She predicted an explosion of cancer within the ‘baby boom generation’. Today (2019) the last figures that I have heard was 1 in 4 men will have cancer and 1 in 3 women will have cancer (no references). The World Cancer Research Fund has published figures as of 2018.
These figures are frightening enough without knowing that there might be a monkey or mouse virus causing them. The world is a scary place. What is contributing to these fears is the ‘Medical Community’s Commercial Brothel.’
The most frightening portion of the book is the description of Dr. Ian Lipkin’s press conference on September 14, 2012. Dr. Mikovits was there to enhance her chances of regaining a reputation mired. D. Lipkin tried to do that but he did more damage to the Scientific Community than reconstitute a reputation, in my opinion.
He began mentioning ‘man-made chimera viruses” and “H5N1 work being done in Rotterdam, Wisconsin, and Japan”. This was enough to make my blood boil. This collaboration of ‘Frankenstein’ mentalities will lead to no good ending.
The rear cover of the book spells out why you should read this book very effectively. They are all correct, yet somehow they don’t go far enough. Not being a doctor or scientist myself, I might go even farther.
This is a great book. It’s long but compelling in every way. If you know anything about the illnesses of ME/CFS, MS, Autism, Vaccines and even Cancer, you should be reading this book.
1 Chapter 20 Pages 366 & 367
March 15, 2016
If I could give this zero stars, I would. The writing is awful. The author jumps from back and forth over the timeline, gives random information then switches to a new topic, and awkwardly sticks in lengthy quotes as if he doesn't quite get what the quote means.
There is significant emphasis on "the notebooks". The way the story was told, it seemed like Judi didn't actually read the notebooks. She's surprised to find, long after it occurred, that a colleague told her tech to do an experiment involving the prostate cancer cell line and patient samples in her lab while she was away. Why didn't she look at the tech's notebook when she returned from her trip? I was a tech before I went to grad school. My PI was all over my notebook-all the time.
I finally gave up when I came across this gem: "Mikovits couldn't help but view Silverman's two-year delay in telling her this information as a sharp diversion from standard scientific protocol." Here are some facts about science (I have a PhD in Molecular Biology & Genetics from the University of Pennsylvania): at the very least, the PI should have inquired at a WEEKLY lab meeting how the virus was obtained. Normally, a PI would ask how an experiment is conducted the first time he/she sees the results. So why didn't Judy ask this question?
Also there are sections about the patient data in her emails. She's not an MD. Patient data should be coded so it is unidentifiable. I could go on, but I'm already annoyed at the time I wasted on this book. Don't read it. There are many fascinating, well-written books about science. This isn't one of them.
There is significant emphasis on "the notebooks". The way the story was told, it seemed like Judi didn't actually read the notebooks. She's surprised to find, long after it occurred, that a colleague told her tech to do an experiment involving the prostate cancer cell line and patient samples in her lab while she was away. Why didn't she look at the tech's notebook when she returned from her trip? I was a tech before I went to grad school. My PI was all over my notebook-all the time.
I finally gave up when I came across this gem: "Mikovits couldn't help but view Silverman's two-year delay in telling her this information as a sharp diversion from standard scientific protocol." Here are some facts about science (I have a PhD in Molecular Biology & Genetics from the University of Pennsylvania): at the very least, the PI should have inquired at a WEEKLY lab meeting how the virus was obtained. Normally, a PI would ask how an experiment is conducted the first time he/she sees the results. So why didn't Judy ask this question?
Also there are sections about the patient data in her emails. She's not an MD. Patient data should be coded so it is unidentifiable. I could go on, but I'm already annoyed at the time I wasted on this book. Don't read it. There are many fascinating, well-written books about science. This isn't one of them.
May 7, 2020
Poorly edited and hard for a layperson to follow, but WORTH THE READ.
When I read this book in 2014, it was very hard to find a copy. Not a huge audience for a book on scientific conspiracy and the story of retroviruses jumping species. When I mentioned this book to a couple of doctor friends, no one had heard of Judy.
Flash forward to CoronaVirus Central. Suddenly, Judy has a new platform and is all over the alternative media.
I believe Judy’s story, and am appalled at the science and political community’s lack of open mindedness and stifling of scientific inquiry.
Now (2020), 6 years after the release of this book, she is making another splash and she’s madder than ever. The rising of the divine feminine takes many forms!
I take everything with a grain of salt. Do I believe Anthony Fauci is the antiChrist? NO.
Do I believe scientists who are also politicians walk a fine line? YES
Do I believe scientists like Judy have been silenced by powerful men through the millennia? YES
I’m seriously trying to avoid the polarization of today’s craziness.
So my advice to all you conspiracy theorists is, don’t get your knickers in a twist.
Go outside. Bring in lots of dirt. Plant some seeds. Get fresh air DAILY. Build your own innate immunity. Getting caught up in “what is truth” is a life long quest.
Believe in a world where love overcomes fear, and time will heal all wounds.
Glad to see Judy’s having her moment of fame though. Vindication!
When I read this book in 2014, it was very hard to find a copy. Not a huge audience for a book on scientific conspiracy and the story of retroviruses jumping species. When I mentioned this book to a couple of doctor friends, no one had heard of Judy.
Flash forward to CoronaVirus Central. Suddenly, Judy has a new platform and is all over the alternative media.
I believe Judy’s story, and am appalled at the science and political community’s lack of open mindedness and stifling of scientific inquiry.
Now (2020), 6 years after the release of this book, she is making another splash and she’s madder than ever. The rising of the divine feminine takes many forms!
I take everything with a grain of salt. Do I believe Anthony Fauci is the antiChrist? NO.
Do I believe scientists who are also politicians walk a fine line? YES
Do I believe scientists like Judy have been silenced by powerful men through the millennia? YES
I’m seriously trying to avoid the polarization of today’s craziness.
So my advice to all you conspiracy theorists is, don’t get your knickers in a twist.
Go outside. Bring in lots of dirt. Plant some seeds. Get fresh air DAILY. Build your own innate immunity. Getting caught up in “what is truth” is a life long quest.
Believe in a world where love overcomes fear, and time will heal all wounds.
Glad to see Judy’s having her moment of fame though. Vindication!
February 13, 2018
Written well enough to be engaging. The book is fascinating if only to see clearly how "science" and court is controlled by money and power. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is not a matter of "laziness" or a "psychological" condition. It is a real disease, that is spread through bodily fluid. It is in fact a true "plague." This issue ought to be shouted from the rooftops and yet its being covered up b/c of the simple fact that it was accidentally created by man in his foolish attempt to play god. They would rather destroy millions of lives than admit that they made a mistake. Combining human and animal DNA to create vaccines is dangerous and ought to be illegal. In an attempt to stop one disease, we have inadvertently created something far worse. As a side issue, it also shows how absurdly taboo it is among grant protective scientists to connect autism w vaccines. The corruption espoused and the science that this book covers ought to convince any intellectually honest person that vaccines are not the flawless saviors of humanity that they tell us they are. The CDC should be tried for crimes against humanity.
June 30, 2018
What u don't know
Can kill u or worse. Or can destroy someone u love. I doubt very seriously that the reason this is being buried is good. Ask yourself why modern medicine just can't seem to cure much at all, but instead keeps coming up with new and expensive treatments for diseases that have been here for years. Look at the advances in cars, computers, agriculture and on and on. And still no cures n allergies (n fact they r worse than ever), cancers etc. In fact the number and severity of chronic illnesses just keeps on skyrocketing. And there r those that keep getting richer off of them. And they r the same people that r controlling the research for "cures" for these diseases that they r getting rich treating the symptoms of. The only way science has made computers that boggle the mind, sent rov's to mars, and mapped the human genome without managing to CURE practically anything is the money behind it DOES NOT WANT TO. For those that doubt the existence of good and evil look around. Only the blinded can't see it
Can kill u or worse. Or can destroy someone u love. I doubt very seriously that the reason this is being buried is good. Ask yourself why modern medicine just can't seem to cure much at all, but instead keeps coming up with new and expensive treatments for diseases that have been here for years. Look at the advances in cars, computers, agriculture and on and on. And still no cures n allergies (n fact they r worse than ever), cancers etc. In fact the number and severity of chronic illnesses just keeps on skyrocketing. And there r those that keep getting richer off of them. And they r the same people that r controlling the research for "cures" for these diseases that they r getting rich treating the symptoms of. The only way science has made computers that boggle the mind, sent rov's to mars, and mapped the human genome without managing to CURE practically anything is the money behind it DOES NOT WANT TO. For those that doubt the existence of good and evil look around. Only the blinded can't see it
December 31, 2014
A captivating story that has all the makings of a suspense novel, except that this is real life, not fiction. Now the details are known behind the headlines and the research papers. Reminding the science community that the relief of suffering and early death should be the focus of the endeavors of medical science, and to accomplish this, is honesty no matter the cost. Forever grateful that this story has been told. -- will be 26 years in a couple weeks since I became sick with M.E.
February 18, 2016
Profoundly Disturbing
Drawn to this book as a sufferer of CFS for over twelve years, I am thoroughly appalled by the behaviour of the American scientific community. Planning to give a copy to my attorney pin hopes that a class action lawsuit will wake the NIH and CDC.
Drawn to this book as a sufferer of CFS for over twelve years, I am thoroughly appalled by the behaviour of the American scientific community. Planning to give a copy to my attorney pin hopes that a class action lawsuit will wake the NIH and CDC.
May 18, 2020
I wanted to give this book 5 stars due to what I consider the importance of the topic, but I felt it was simply too poorly written to strongly benefit the average person—like me, (or say, the parents thinking about vaccinating their kid, or being pressured to vaccinate their kid). The book is way too technical. I even asked my good friend, an MD, to read the book because I was having trouble following it, and I wasn't sure if I was grasping the key points. Like me, she felt there were technical terms insufficiently explained (or not at all), got lost in places trying to follow the story, and wasn't confident that she understood the research methods described to know whether the thesis withstood scrutiny. Why did I continue reading it?
I am a huge vaccine skeptic, so it was interesting to me to read about a doctor who is trying to find out what could be causing chronic fatigue syndrome, autism and other debilitating sicknesses, and whether there is a potential vaccine connection. As far as I was able to understand, the vaccines don't in and of themselves cause these illnesses, but can trigger latent tendencies within the body that lead to these illnesses and even cancer.
This book is a story of the heated, volatile, and sadly, unduly politicized subject of the advisability or inadvisability of vaccinations. It deserves a wide audience, and I think the book could be rewritten to better serve the lay-men & -women of the world who need this information but won't slog through this entire book.
I am a huge vaccine skeptic, so it was interesting to me to read about a doctor who is trying to find out what could be causing chronic fatigue syndrome, autism and other debilitating sicknesses, and whether there is a potential vaccine connection. As far as I was able to understand, the vaccines don't in and of themselves cause these illnesses, but can trigger latent tendencies within the body that lead to these illnesses and even cancer.
This book is a story of the heated, volatile, and sadly, unduly politicized subject of the advisability or inadvisability of vaccinations. It deserves a wide audience, and I think the book could be rewritten to better serve the lay-men & -women of the world who need this information but won't slog through this entire book.
June 20, 2020
This is the story of Dr. Judy Mikovits, how she did research in several fields, cancer, HIV/AIDS, ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome), autism, etc. How she was researching the XMRV retrovirus (xenotropic murine leukemia virus-related-virus), and how it relates to illnesses like ME/CFS, autism, prostrate cancer.
Dr. Mikovits was finding out more and more how XMRV is causing illness and how when a virus is passed through mouse brain tissue and brain stems to make a vaccine, the XMRV is transferred into patients, in turn she was figuring out that this was causing illnesses.
The corrupt scientific community did not like that she was finding this information out, especially since she thought it to be the new HIV/AIDS, and that it could affect millions of people. They did not want that information getting out to the public. They feared it would cause panic and people would refuse vaccines.
She and her colleagues published their work in Science, but the article was eventually retracted. She continued her work, but was eventually fired from her job at WPI (Whittemore Peterson Institute) on September 29, 2011, and on November 4, 2011, WPI filed a civil case claiming she left with intellectual property, specifically her notebooks and computer files. She had not and technically she had every right to them, as they were her property, her research. In the scientific community a researcher is legally required to maintain and protect copies of all data under federal regulations.
On Friday, November 18, 2011, she was arrested. There was no arrest warrant or charges. She was held in jail for five days without being able to post bail. When they came to her home, they had a search warrant, they were looking for the notebooks. She did not know where they were at and believed her assistant, Max Pfost, had secured them. When she asked why she was being arrested they told her she was a fugitive from justice.
After five days she was able to post bail and get out.
During this time, on November 22, 2011, there was court in Reno, Nevada for the civil trial, she was not able to be there. Judge Brent Adams gave a preliminary order to turn in all of her emails. She could not because of the privacy laws regarding the study participants.
On December 19, 2011, Judge Adams handed down a default judgement, meaning she would not be able to present a defense, even though normally everyone gets their day in court.
The only thing left was to determine damages, the Whittemores wanted $15 million. Judy did not have that kind of money.
They made her an offer, $450,000 for legal fees, return the notebooks, no criticism towards them, and sign an apology. She said no. After her attorneys present evidence that there were no missing notebooks to return, that she had worked diligently for the 5 years, and how Lombardi had not been entitled to the cell line, and that they could prove the contract had been forged they countered with another offer, sign an apology letter and it would be over. Judy again said no stating that to sign an apology that was a lie and never discuss the crimes against her and the patients would end everything and end her life. The offer was withdrawn.
On March 14, 2012 Judge Adams recused himself from the case, admitting accepting more than $10,000 from Harvey Whittemore for his campaign.
The new judge, Janet Berry, set the date for damages for September 6, 2012, it would never be held.
On June 6, 2012 Harvey Whittemore was indicted on federal charges of election violations.
On June 11, 2012 the DA of Washoe Co. filed for the dismissal of charges against Mikovits without prejudice. She never got her day in court to tell her side of the story or to present her evidence.
Harvey Whittemore was eventually convicted on May 29, 2013 of three felonies: making excessive campaign contributions, making contributions in the name of others, and causing a materially false statement to the Federal Elections Commission. On September 30, 2013 he was sentenced to 24 months in jail, $100,000 fine, two years supervised release, and 100 hours of community service. On June 5, 2014, after his appeals, he was ordered to surrender to federal authorities on August 6, 2014.
Dr. Judy Mikovits is a brilliant scientist who was subject to the corrupt scientific community and was not able to have her day in court and present her story. As with many before her she was shunned and unable to continue researching and doing what she so dearly loved.
I would highly recommend this book if you want to learn more about XMRV, retroviruses, vaccines, and the corruption that goes on in science.
Dr. Mikovits was finding out more and more how XMRV is causing illness and how when a virus is passed through mouse brain tissue and brain stems to make a vaccine, the XMRV is transferred into patients, in turn she was figuring out that this was causing illnesses.
The corrupt scientific community did not like that she was finding this information out, especially since she thought it to be the new HIV/AIDS, and that it could affect millions of people. They did not want that information getting out to the public. They feared it would cause panic and people would refuse vaccines.
She and her colleagues published their work in Science, but the article was eventually retracted. She continued her work, but was eventually fired from her job at WPI (Whittemore Peterson Institute) on September 29, 2011, and on November 4, 2011, WPI filed a civil case claiming she left with intellectual property, specifically her notebooks and computer files. She had not and technically she had every right to them, as they were her property, her research. In the scientific community a researcher is legally required to maintain and protect copies of all data under federal regulations.
On Friday, November 18, 2011, she was arrested. There was no arrest warrant or charges. She was held in jail for five days without being able to post bail. When they came to her home, they had a search warrant, they were looking for the notebooks. She did not know where they were at and believed her assistant, Max Pfost, had secured them. When she asked why she was being arrested they told her she was a fugitive from justice.
After five days she was able to post bail and get out.
During this time, on November 22, 2011, there was court in Reno, Nevada for the civil trial, she was not able to be there. Judge Brent Adams gave a preliminary order to turn in all of her emails. She could not because of the privacy laws regarding the study participants.
On December 19, 2011, Judge Adams handed down a default judgement, meaning she would not be able to present a defense, even though normally everyone gets their day in court.
The only thing left was to determine damages, the Whittemores wanted $15 million. Judy did not have that kind of money.
They made her an offer, $450,000 for legal fees, return the notebooks, no criticism towards them, and sign an apology. She said no. After her attorneys present evidence that there were no missing notebooks to return, that she had worked diligently for the 5 years, and how Lombardi had not been entitled to the cell line, and that they could prove the contract had been forged they countered with another offer, sign an apology letter and it would be over. Judy again said no stating that to sign an apology that was a lie and never discuss the crimes against her and the patients would end everything and end her life. The offer was withdrawn.
On March 14, 2012 Judge Adams recused himself from the case, admitting accepting more than $10,000 from Harvey Whittemore for his campaign.
The new judge, Janet Berry, set the date for damages for September 6, 2012, it would never be held.
On June 6, 2012 Harvey Whittemore was indicted on federal charges of election violations.
On June 11, 2012 the DA of Washoe Co. filed for the dismissal of charges against Mikovits without prejudice. She never got her day in court to tell her side of the story or to present her evidence.
Harvey Whittemore was eventually convicted on May 29, 2013 of three felonies: making excessive campaign contributions, making contributions in the name of others, and causing a materially false statement to the Federal Elections Commission. On September 30, 2013 he was sentenced to 24 months in jail, $100,000 fine, two years supervised release, and 100 hours of community service. On June 5, 2014, after his appeals, he was ordered to surrender to federal authorities on August 6, 2014.
Dr. Judy Mikovits is a brilliant scientist who was subject to the corrupt scientific community and was not able to have her day in court and present her story. As with many before her she was shunned and unable to continue researching and doing what she so dearly loved.
I would highly recommend this book if you want to learn more about XMRV, retroviruses, vaccines, and the corruption that goes on in science.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2020
This is like a Microbiology 101 course for the uninitiated. Such expertise is to be lauded! Read this as you would if you were paying for a college course on Virology and Real Politiks of Virology. Mikovits is undoubtedly a legitimate and widely recognized scientist. After her video was blocked & banned by YouTube, et al there sprouted so many fools attacking her credibility. That drove me nuts because those critics have no humility: they’re not scholars in the field. This book reveals power moves in scientific echelons. The well-meaning, truth-seeking researcher is met with denials of funding, aspersions and a list of other subtle impediments. And much credit to the author for unraveling the entire narrative. It felt overwhelming at times due to the back & forth between the court, Las Vegas, the lab, and the microscopic world of viruses.
What do I think of Dr. Fauci, the WHO, NIH & CDC? Today mid-May? It’s scary. To be clear, for those wondering, there is no direct condemnation of Anthony Fauci, or any one person. If anyone, it’s Harvey Whittemore, the big Reno power broker. But it does refine the reader’s lens for perceiving the nature of such widely recognized yet never-ever-ever-challenged institutions. Some very important and valuable information is suppressed or ridiculed, or some sharp researcher is quietly bought out and told to not speak of certain things, or some prominent & influential scientist goes mute on a crucial matter. We are all in the hands of these high priests of microbiology now.
There are some wonderful analogies employed in the author’s many attempts to convey abstruse problems. Much of the matter is complicated in and of itself: viruses are really really tiny! And conditions that are dubbed these acronyms of CFS, HHV, HIV, AIDS, & ME can have multiple factors/causes. In this book, for instance, there is distinguished the infection from the contamination, and the immune response/breakdown from the allergic reaction. Is she sick because of a virus in the blood? Where did it come from? Did something trigger it? What is a virus that does not kill its host right away? This book illumines the study of vaccines and raises the concern that the samples were contaminated from having been passed through mouse tissues, and this has been endemic since day one, that is, the mixing & the testing of animal systems w/human systems.
Practically, I took from this book the reminder to strengthen my immune system. I also don’t want any vaccine for the rest of my life unless there is imminent death for me in some exceptional situation. Not anti-vaccine but one that now asks many more questions about which & what vaccine. The book also encourages one to stay up to date on this field of science. Indeed its pace of acceleration is only matched by the IT field. Things move so fast because the tech allows for greater revelations.
I recommend this for everyone but unfortunately don’t expect many to read it all the way through, it’s pretty long & at some sections, pretty dense. Freshen up on the difference between DNA & RNA, and how replication occurs. You’re going to learn about the envelope of a protein, and how you can search for a virus in the blood, the tissue, the lymph nodes, etc. Is this relevant & important? YES. If you get this book, take your time, some valuable, practical, layman lessons on virology in this book. There’s also a bit of court drama that threads through everything but try to appreciate the complexity of the entire matter and this will keep the reading experience up & moving. Lastly, this is mainly aimed at her peers. PHDs and professional researchers will swim in familiar waters here when learning of Mikovits. She’s no small fry. The language can be technical and very sciency. Drink your fill.
What do I think of Dr. Fauci, the WHO, NIH & CDC? Today mid-May? It’s scary. To be clear, for those wondering, there is no direct condemnation of Anthony Fauci, or any one person. If anyone, it’s Harvey Whittemore, the big Reno power broker. But it does refine the reader’s lens for perceiving the nature of such widely recognized yet never-ever-ever-challenged institutions. Some very important and valuable information is suppressed or ridiculed, or some sharp researcher is quietly bought out and told to not speak of certain things, or some prominent & influential scientist goes mute on a crucial matter. We are all in the hands of these high priests of microbiology now.
There are some wonderful analogies employed in the author’s many attempts to convey abstruse problems. Much of the matter is complicated in and of itself: viruses are really really tiny! And conditions that are dubbed these acronyms of CFS, HHV, HIV, AIDS, & ME can have multiple factors/causes. In this book, for instance, there is distinguished the infection from the contamination, and the immune response/breakdown from the allergic reaction. Is she sick because of a virus in the blood? Where did it come from? Did something trigger it? What is a virus that does not kill its host right away? This book illumines the study of vaccines and raises the concern that the samples were contaminated from having been passed through mouse tissues, and this has been endemic since day one, that is, the mixing & the testing of animal systems w/human systems.
Practically, I took from this book the reminder to strengthen my immune system. I also don’t want any vaccine for the rest of my life unless there is imminent death for me in some exceptional situation. Not anti-vaccine but one that now asks many more questions about which & what vaccine. The book also encourages one to stay up to date on this field of science. Indeed its pace of acceleration is only matched by the IT field. Things move so fast because the tech allows for greater revelations.
I recommend this for everyone but unfortunately don’t expect many to read it all the way through, it’s pretty long & at some sections, pretty dense. Freshen up on the difference between DNA & RNA, and how replication occurs. You’re going to learn about the envelope of a protein, and how you can search for a virus in the blood, the tissue, the lymph nodes, etc. Is this relevant & important? YES. If you get this book, take your time, some valuable, practical, layman lessons on virology in this book. There’s also a bit of court drama that threads through everything but try to appreciate the complexity of the entire matter and this will keep the reading experience up & moving. Lastly, this is mainly aimed at her peers. PHDs and professional researchers will swim in familiar waters here when learning of Mikovits. She’s no small fry. The language can be technical and very sciency. Drink your fill.
May 19, 2020
I highly recommend this book. I had never heard of Judy Mikovits before 2 weeks ago. I have been interested in Coronavirus information since February. I don't usually trust MSM, but I had been watching just about all of the Task Force press conferences and usually about an hour of CNN afterwards. Well, I saw a video/interview with Dr. Mikovits and 3 others about 2 weeks ago. She talked about her much earlier interactions in the past with Dr. Fauci and Dr. Gallo and then mostly technical stuff about viruses and immune system response that I didn't understand but I became instantly fascinated. So I had watched her in 3 other long interview videos and listened to her talk for an hour on a podcast before I saw the viral video that was deleted from YouTube. And here's a textbook example of the Streisand Effect. When I saw 8 FB friends of mine share the video and then see it was deleted (most of the other videos of Mikovits were also deleted), I decided to buy both of her books. This one was very good, especially if you like the scientific details and also history. My only knowledge of CFS before reading the book was from a Golden Girls re-run that I saw while visiting my mom and Aunt about 5 months ago. If you want to make sense of what is going on behind the 'curtain' in our government and scientific agencies, I'm going to recommend the same thing that Dr. Mikovits recommended in the 1st video I saw her in. Watch the movie "And the Band Played On" about the HIV/AIDS epidemic. And then watch "The Dallas Buyer's Club". And then maybe this completely bizarre nightly left vs right debate over a drug that has been commonly prescribed for malaria, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis for decades will make some sense.
February 14, 2016
The politics of scientific discovery
I must admit that much of the scientific nomenclature was hard for me to follow. I found it to be extremely interesting to see how scientific exploration and discovery is driven by the current political culture of money ( can any be made from this research and discovery) and governmental responsibility. (Can we be sued by the populace for not admitting we knew these viruses were out there infecting people). I found confirmation that there was a link between viruses and autism and also autism and chronic fatigue syndrome. I would recommend this book to any one who would like to broaden their understanding of scientific processes of discovery and the difficulties encountered by those championing an unpopular cause while attempting to maintain integrity and honest compassion. I am glad I read this book and took one star away only because it was difficult to keep track of the meanings of all of the abbreviations and terminology used.
I must admit that much of the scientific nomenclature was hard for me to follow. I found it to be extremely interesting to see how scientific exploration and discovery is driven by the current political culture of money ( can any be made from this research and discovery) and governmental responsibility. (Can we be sued by the populace for not admitting we knew these viruses were out there infecting people). I found confirmation that there was a link between viruses and autism and also autism and chronic fatigue syndrome. I would recommend this book to any one who would like to broaden their understanding of scientific processes of discovery and the difficulties encountered by those championing an unpopular cause while attempting to maintain integrity and honest compassion. I am glad I read this book and took one star away only because it was difficult to keep track of the meanings of all of the abbreviations and terminology used.
July 21, 2015
Idealistically speaking, two parts of our system SHOULD be free of political influence -- the legal system and scientific research. I know this has no relation to truth as I know it, proved by the classification of marijuana as a class A drug (in the infinite stupidity of the FDA). This book shows how both are corrupt, to the detriment of public health.
It probably surprises nobody that the Nevada legal system can not even be insinuated to be a justice system, but that it can reach into California and cause injustice is proof of the massive influence of big money in our system.
All medical librarians need to read this as should all people involved in medical research. It is an eye opener. The "justice system" in Nevada is hopeless.
I will need to relisten to this to better understand the science of it, but I highly recommend it.
It probably surprises nobody that the Nevada legal system can not even be insinuated to be a justice system, but that it can reach into California and cause injustice is proof of the massive influence of big money in our system.
All medical librarians need to read this as should all people involved in medical research. It is an eye opener. The "justice system" in Nevada is hopeless.
I will need to relisten to this to better understand the science of it, but I highly recommend it.
December 16, 2020
This book is a must read. A true scientific thriller, it is very detailed and not for those who dislike specific information. Sometimes it's easier to look the other way in life but in the end ignorance is not bliss, it is often dearly paid for by those who can least afford it. The book is a courageous contribution. I found it fascinating and well-written. We should all have information on retroviruses and how the scientific community works. It is a hierarchy like everything else, with people looking for acclaim and money. Some are honest. Some are not. Five stars.
August 30, 2020
Dr. Mikovits is not a whistleblower and lies about Dr. Fauci to hide her theft of intellectual property after her firing from her former employer. Mikovits deliberately spiked CFS patient samples with the XMRV retrovirus, evidence of scientific fraud. Silverman found VP62 plasmids from WPI samples, only in the CFS patient samples and not healthy controls, suggesting no proper blinding. The western blot in figure 2 was duplicated in 2 different experiments, intentionally mislabeled to suggest a lack of proper negative controls. Mikovits lost the civil case for theft of lab notebooks, which belonged to her former employer, not the investigator.
December 30, 2018
Fascinating true story, with serious implications, however written with far too much technical detail (if you aren't already familiar with virology, good luck.....much of it will not make a lot of sense) and a poor writing style in which the author jumps around from event to event to event over the course of many years, instead of writing about what happened in a sequential order that makes any kind of sense.
June 18, 2016
The story was interesting, frightening, and completely believable, but this book needed spell checking and heavy editing.
July 26, 2020
Very interesting and recommended reading regarding viruses and their transmission.
January 22, 2021
Baseless and repetitive fear-mongering. Nothing in this book suggests any kind of link between autism, vaccines and ME/CFS beyond mere suggestions by the author.
May 14, 2020
This was a very eye opening account of some the structural problems of institutionalized science, that also raises a lot of concerns and questions around what is really the truth behind ME-CFS and autism. I hope we will eventually get the full answers.
The book is really long and very detailed, with a lot of scientific jargon. As someone with a background in life sciences (a PhD in bioinformatics and a MSc in biotechnology) I found it actually quite enjoyable, but it might be hard to follow without a solid science background.
The book is really long and very detailed, with a lot of scientific jargon. As someone with a background in life sciences (a PhD in bioinformatics and a MSc in biotechnology) I found it actually quite enjoyable, but it might be hard to follow without a solid science background.
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