This question was originally posted on Facebook.

I responded with a quote from this book: Harvey Cushing: A Life in Surgery

“Dr. Harvey Cushing, who is the one responsible for discovering our disease, found some of his patients in circuses.”

Other responses so far:

OP:  Thank you for sharing this Mary Kelly O’Connor… as sad as this is… that our past cushing’s friends were on display as freaks in circuses, i am happy he was able to find them and help them and further his research.

Mary Kelly O’Connor: I remembered from reading this book many years ago.

For a long time, I was “mad” at circuses until I realized that they were the only people offering jobs to Cushies and others who should have had a better chance at life.

I know the circuses were exploiting the “freaks” but at least they could find a place in society.

I am so thankful to Dr. Cushing and the work he did…for all of us. I hate the disease but I am so glad that I’m alive after it was discovered and I didn’t have to run away to join a circus, too.

OP: Mary Kelly O’Connor i also am thankful to dr harvey cushing… even though i did read he was sorta an asshole arrogant jerk. Lol. I guess when you are the father of neuroscience you are entitled though…

Mary Kelly O’Connor:  My first “real” endo, the one who diagnosed me was that description. But he got me into NIH for surgery and I’m thankful to him, too. (But I never went back after I found another endo. LOL)