Fight for yourself

I have learned a lot about my rights as a patient over the past ten years.  I remember when I first started having health issues.  I freaked out every time I had to go to the hospital, or doctor.  I hated everything having to do with my healthcare.  When I was around doctors I accepted all of the information they gave me without asking questions.  I always felt like I was bothering the doctors/nurses by asking questions, and learning more about my conditions.  Doctors always seemed so rushed, so I didn't want to take up more time than necessary.  I also had my parents around to ask all of the tough questions.  They would relay the information onto me.

I no longer take what doctors tell me at face value.  They tend to tell people the bare minimum.  That is not acceptable in my book.  I want to know every detail when it comes to what's going on inside of me.  I'm not satisfied until I feel comfortable with my diagnoses.  My parents are all the way in Wisconsin, so I can no longer bank on them asking the questions that I don't.  I have been forced to take charge of my healthcare.  Jeff obviously has to work, so he is unable to accompany me to all of my doctor's appointments.  I have to do the research and not be afraid of taking the time I need with doctors/nurses to fully understand my current situation.

After every diagnosis I take the time to do my research.  I have learned of many trusted websites, and I ask for print-outs of the description and side effects of my conditions.  Without my health I have nothing.  I want to know everything that I will be going through, as well as, what I can do to improve my situation. 

I know there are many people out there who are frustrated with their current healthcare, like I was.  The best advice I could give to anyone is to take control of their health.  No matter if it may be something as simple as a cold, or something as evasive as cancer.  Ask whatever questions you may have to doctors/nurses and pharmacists.  They went to school in order to help people stay healthy.  They are around to help make everyone person's healthcare as successful as possible.  Use the resources that are available to you.

I am, in no way, trying to sound like I am preaching to anyone.  You have the right to choose the way you handle your healthcare, and the way you live your lives.  All I know is that I wish I was more confident and more in control of my health from the start.  I'm so thankful I discovered my confidence before it was too late.  I will never stop asking questions in order to better my quality of life!