General
Lyfetalk- Advocating for yourself at Doctor Appointments
May 15, 2024
in General
Jeanmarie and Dusty are talking how they have advocated for themselves throughout their journey when speaking with their medical teams. Last night during Support Group we touched on this a little bit. Check out their conversation and let us know how you have advocated for yourself along your journey.
Tagged:
1 - 9 of 9 Replies
Below is the link to make it easy to find. It's always fun recording with @dlatchison
Blog — TransplantLyfe
I had to advocate for myself today. I have a scheduled CT Scan tomorrow and they called me to come pick up Barium solution. I told them I told the person scheduling I had a transplant. They were going to end it all for me . Ask Questions
Oh wow. Even if you think it's a silly question or concern, it is so important to ask questions. It's impossible for us to remember or know everything. And doctors and staff are human too and make mistakes. I always think I am the most annoying person asking so many questions all the time. One time I didn't because I wasn't feeling well. And almost took out my kidney. I am so glad you asked!
True, you have to be an advocate for yourself. My younger sister not only taught me this but she reinforces this often.
My best friend/sister is very outspoken and taught me well. If I hadn’t been an advocate for myself I don’t think I would have been told I was a candidate for a transplant. The doctor told me he was impressed I wanted to even begin that journey. I chose my hospital and it so it began. I’ve had to speak up many times after that at times it’s a matter of life and death.
Transplant Patient
I don't know if I would call what I do advocating but apparently to some people it is! I try to have a conversation, and conversations go two ways so I'll definitely speak up if I read something/disagree with something/am interested in something. I'm also under the impression my doctors are part of my team, and can be replaced accordingly. I have been known to be a fiery little spitball to get them to take me seriously though. I wouldn't say I've had to go toe to toe with a doctor too many times though, most of the time they take me pretty seriously. I apparently have a reputation 😅
I literally just had this happen today. After years in the hospital, mostly on and off and 8 months pre transplant, my veins are shot. Track lines, scar tissue everywhere in both elbow access. I now know which veins are still good and which are still promising under the right circumstances.
today, at my blood draw I had a cranky woman. She would not listen to me. Demanded that she can do “any vein”. I had to be firm and I always try to be kind in my advocacy. She was clearly having a rough day and my heart tries to support their hearts as they navigate life’s challenges. Then I lost it a bit and had to say “this vein only or I a want another phlebotomist”. Well she was angry but she pulled from the vein I asked. She wouldn’t look or speak to me after. I said a prayer for her as I was leaving.
TheMac Way to go you of all people would know, when I have blood draws and sit in the chair they always ask me which arm/and where .💪
TheMac That is great that you stood up to that nurse. I, like Melsamm, always have been ask which vein to use and I have one that is totally shot and it used to be the best.