How Will This Show Tell the Story?

Most television shows that mention Huntington’s Disease only do so in passing. Few really take the time to make it a major storyline. In fact, the number of show that have made it a true part of the story can probably be counted on one hand. So, I was very surprised when I sat down to watch an episode of Private Practice. Okay, so I am a bit behind. I have only just now sat down to watch and episode of Private Practice that aired a few weeks ago and had a Huntington’s Disease story line. Part of the summary is that a friend of one of the doctors threatens to kill herself if she test positive for the Huntington gene. I have to admit, that ticked me off. Why would a person do that? However, after watching the episode, I have to say they did a fairly good job of giving a bit of insight into the disease and what in can lead to. Essentially, after having recently buried her mother due to the Huntington’s Disease, Michelle debates getting tested. She says that if she test positive, she is going to kill herself because she doesn’t want to live life the way her mother did. Seriously? So, one of the doctors (Amelia) convinces Michelle to get tested and then lies about the results saying that Michelle does not have the gene when she really does. And all of a sudden Michelle’s world can go on. I wanted to throw something at the TV at this point in the whole storyline. Amelia thinks she is helping Michelle by allowing her to think that she doesn’t have the gene so she can go on living. While I admit that as the disease begins to take control of a person’s body, the outcome is not pleasant. However, should a person stop living today because of something that most likely won’t happen for many years down the road? In the end, Amelia felt guilty and came clean with Michelle letting her know the truth of the test results. Michelle is devastated and debates if she wants to end her life. Amelia finally convinces her that she needs to live for today and not worry about what will happen down the road. She doesn’t have any of the effects of the disease today and may not for many years to come. For all they know, Michelle might die in a car accident tomorrow but that doesn’t mean she stops leaving her apartment. And Amelia convinces Michelle that life does go on and that as a friend – who happens to be a doctor – she will be with Michelle every step of the way. Now the part where Amelia hints that she would be willing to help Michelle end her life when the disease begins to take control is a subject to discuss in another blog. I do have to give kudos to the show. They did a good job of describing some of the physical side effects that the disease can have on a person, but they took it a step farther. They took time to highlight the effects on the disease on family members as well as the personal struggle each person has as the decide whether or not to take that step to be tested. Not many shows have taken the time to do that. Thanks Private Practice for allowing everyone to view a small window into the lives of those that deal with this every day. If you want to check out the show, here is a link. http://abc.go.com/watch/private-practice/SH559070/VD55117689/love-and-lies