It’s Easy To Make Some Calls

It’s so true that we need to be our own healthcare advocates. I know first hand that when you’re facing a cancer diagnosis it can be consuming and maybe you feel like you want to curl up in the fetal position and not come out.  It’s ok to do that…temporarily.  This time more than ever is when you need to get up and put on your big girl panties so to speak.

I haven’t written lately because I have been hoping to know some information prior to posting again. Information like; when will I be going to MD Anderson in Houston. MD Anderson Orlando told me last week that it could take a week for Houston to receive and review the information necessary to schedule my appointment.

Patience Is Not My Gift

Working on being patient and accepting of the task in front of me I waited the week. I heard nothing so started making calls yesterday. I called the coordinator at MD Anderson Orlando. When she returned my call she had no information but had sent a message to Houston to get things moving. I received a call from a woman in billing in Houston. She gave me the name and number of the woman who would call to set up my appointment.

Meanwhile, I let the woman know that it was no longer my plan to simply go to Houston for a second opinion. I want to go and have the surgery. My intent is to fly there, meet with the Dr and have the surgery the following day. The woman I spoke with was calling about medical records and information. She said that it is an option to meet with the Dr and have surgery the following day. I’m not sure it is but it gave me hope. I have also had 3 calls from different people in Houston. Although I don’t have an appointment date yet, I am encouraged knowing that they are working on things.

I Want The cancer Out Of My Body

Originally I was told that it would take a week to get the information to Houston to get the appointment scheduled. I interpreted that (incorrectly) to mean that everything would be in order and I would know when I’m going to Houston. In speaking with the coordinator in Orlando today she said that it takes a week for them to get the info -at a minimum. I heard what I wanted to hear originally.

When I told her I heard from them yesterday she said that is a good sign and one of the faster referrals she has seen. I know the cynics will say that she says that to everyone. She might, but she said it nicely and that was good enough for me. I asked two people today what I can be doing to be a better advocate for myself to make sure this is moving along. It’s getting tiring and at times frustrating. I’m ready to get going. I’m ready to have the cancer removed from my body. I feel it. The lymph nodes are getting uncomfortable.  It’s time.

What To Say To A cancer Patient; It’s Strange For The Patient Too

On a final note, I have had some questions and comments from people about how to act or what to say to me.  I want everyone to be as normal as they can be. It’s ok for you to ask about the cancer and it’s ok that everyone knows about it. If you say “how are you” as everyone in our society does, I will say “I’m doing OK” or “I’m ready” or something like that. I’m not sure how to respond to that as much as many aren’t sure how to act about how I am.

You Give Me Strength

It’s strange on both ends. I’m still positive and trying to live each day as normally as possible. I am enjoying my afternoon naps more than ever. Still exercising every day and staying strong. If you are reading this it’s because you care about me and want to know what’s going on. I’m honored that are taking the time to check in on me. So many of you have asked what you can do. For now, pray, smile, and laugh. There will be things I will need and I will ask. I promise. I know I can’t do this alone and am grateful so many people are willing to help. I know that everyone who has said “what can we do?” means it, so thank you.