I was a strong advocate for myself today..maybe to strong

I saw the PA today for the sternum pain and arm tingeling and numbness. It didn't go to well. I went in very calm 110/60 and 5 hours later it was still up over 150.(My internest was a little concerned.) The PA did the usual exam and checked my neck and collar bone area and had me raise my arms in the air, You need physical therapy, ok, I can see that,( maybe, I will try anything) but what about the sternum pain. It went down hill from there.
Didn't touch it, didn't check it, just more or less said we do tests and there is no indication for a ct scan. I said what tests have you run. Nada, except Muggas. We do blood tests, and I told her one month before I was diag. I saw my gastro dr. who did blood work, and it came back fine, and guess what I had bc. Well your on adjunctive therapy and we just do what is the standard protocal. I said some times the adjunct therapy doesn't work on everyone. It's been 5 months since treatment ended and you have not run one test. My other doctors did. I told her, I came in here because I am to report anything that is different to listen to my body and tell you about it and you do nothing. I asked her what difference does it make to her if I want some peace of mind and want a ct scan, it's my body and my insurance company. Well I..I said just forget it, I am through with you people, I don't know why I even bother. I will be back to get my herceptin tx's and see my doctors who actually give a ---- about me.
My internest saw me at 2:00 today and ordered a ct scan for next week and we have a follow up plan for pain. I don't think I would have had the courage to stand up for myself if it wasn't for you amazing women. I didn't mean for it to get loud. It all just started rushing out of my mouth, all the things that I have held in just came out. In the end though they needed to hear it. Not my friends or family. Them, and I feel so much better. THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR ENCOURAGEMENT and next time I will try to keep my blood pressure down. Sorry this is so long. Again THANKS...K

Kristen,

Although I don't advocate yelling unless the words aren't being heard, I salute you for your actions. We must all learn to be advocates and must do what it takes to protect our health.

So proud.

Love and light,

Lisa

Wow, you really let 'em have it, good for you. If they thought you were being too "loud" that's ok, they needed to hear you roar :0
The main thing is you feel better about speaking up, and you will be healthier for it.
Love, Lolly

K,
YOU GO GIRL!!! I am so proud of you!!! I am sending many positive vibes your way and hoping this puts your mind at ease!!

Its called being pro active and taking control!! I have been there and done it and from now on I bet they will listen to you. As you can see we are cheering you on and who knows you may have just saved your life!!! God bless you. Hugs, Sandy

Dear Kristen,
Listening to your storey and watching what my wife and others have gone through, I wonder if some of these "experts" wouldn't be a lot happier if we would just die and go away!! I know they hate being questoned or challenged! Think about it... Failure only enters the picture if you try hard and it doesn't work. Non-action seems to be an acceptable response when working with the terminally or chronically ill.
Again, you are your best advocate!!!
take care,
Al

Kristen
I have had a similar outburst at one time or another, and came to the conclusion that we do have patient rights when the ONC'S are not really conentrating , maybe even ignoring your concerns. We learn to be alot more assertive when your own life is at stake. BRAVO,Kristen.

Really I couldn't have done it without your encouragement and also everything that is discussed on this board. I really think people who are informed can handle themselves in a debate. They just want you to trust them and not challenge them, and when you do (at least mine) was flabbergasted. so again all the credit goes to you ladies and teaching us the path in which to follow. Take Care

Kristen,

I am so proud of you. You absolutely did the right thing. I will keep you in my prayers as you continue this path.

Jerri

SHOUTSOLOUDTHATGODCANHEARYA!

HIP HIP HOORAY BRAVO AND MORE POWER TO YOU!
FROM A SURVIVOR!