Peg is correct that 'positive thinking' can do a lot..we have not learned all there is to know about the ability of the mind to affect many things about the body..."Bio-feedback" is an accepted concept.

Whether one needs to go to someplace like Lourdes to achieve results depends, I guess, on the basic beliefs of the people involved....it may just provide 'focus'. If friends who share these beliefs willingly offer to finance the trip, it is not for me to say "don't do it", although I wouldn't go myself.

I wish them well, whatever they decide....that is a nasty disease to live with....