Starting here, I find myself trying to navigate a whirlwind of emotions, primarily anger. I’ve learned it’s essential to acknowledge and process these feelings without suppression, even if it’s from a place of detached observation. I’m just Jen—simple yet oh-so-complicated—and humor has been my lifeline through this journey.
Recently, I had a pivotal phone call with my patient advocate at MD Anderson in Houston, a place that welcomed me with open arms after a health scare post my 44th birthday. From the moment I arrived at their ER, the care was top-notch. Despite facing Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer, I’ve endured pain from various conditions over the years, managing with alternative methods like yoga and supplements, including my past experience with Plexus.
After starting palliative care, I’ve experienced unexpected relief—my symptoms have subsided significantly, a testament to both medical expertise and personal determination. However, navigating the healthcare system has been challenging. I’ve encountered institutional policies that don’t align with my preferences, highlighting the importance of patient advocacy and self-empowerment in medical decisions.
The journey has been emotionally taxing. For instance, I’ve had frustrating experiences like playing phone tag with MD Anderson for weeks due to their system, which required leaving messages and missing callbacks repeatedly. Despite these challenges, the dedication of the staff and the care I received have been invaluable.
While my journey has been fraught with setbacks and frustrations, I’m grateful for the healing I’ve found at MD Anderson and the unwavering support of loved ones. Each day brings new challenges, but also moments of profound gratitude and hope for the future.
If you or someone you know is navigating a similar journey, I hope sharing my detailed experience offers comfort and insight. Let’s support each other through difficult times and celebrate victories together. Share your stories using #breastcancerawareness and #MDAndersonStrong.
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#MDAndersonStrong
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