by Judy Salcewicz
 |
Mariano Barbacid, who leads the Experimental Oncology Group at the Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), developed a treatment that has successfully and completely eradicated pancreatic tumours in mice, without any major side effects. The discovery was hailed as a potentially significant turning point in the fight against this disease. However, a segment of social media users mocked a birthmark on Barbacid's face and made numerous offensive and superficial comments, rather than recognizing the scientific achievement. —Money Control, January 31, 2026 |
Is it because we’re reading fewer books
that we forget not to judge them by their covers?
A disparagement, a quick dismissal
and we miss out on adventure, insight,
inspiration, knowledge, heroes to emulate,
and so many things that improve our lives.
Pancreatic cancer is a deadly disease--
with a five-year survival rate is 13%
Dr. Mariano Barbacid,
a Spanish cancer scientist,
and his team found a triple-drug therapy
that eliminates pancreatic tumors in mice.
This remarkable discovery is cause for
celebration and hope that it will lead
to a human cure.
Instead of celebrating, many online disparagers,
focus instead on the Doctor’s birthmark.
Judy Salcewicz is a New Jersey poet and writer who believes in the power of words.