It pains me to write this message as I like to find a silver lining in everything and I’m a very grateful person.
Yesterday we were told my Dad’s cancer has spread throughout his body. After months of being medically gaslit, presenting 7 times in a&e, being sent home from hospital too soon only to find my Dad unconscious on the bathroom floor and having to call an ambulance, being laughed at when Dad said he didn’t feel well enough to go home. Only to come back in again.
For the last 3 months I’ve been advocating for my Dad and being made to feel like a dickhead. We have both been spoken to like we were being dramatic, by consultants.
3 days ago a new urology consultant at the rd&e became involved in my Dad’s care… in 3 days he’s done what I’ve been asking for people to do for the past 3 months. My Dad’s cancer has spread throughout his liver and lungs and bones and his left kidney no longer works. Even though he’s been told his treatment is working as his PSA is low so they didn’t bother to investigate his symptoms. Even thought I’ve been saying for 3 months, there’s something seriously wrong with him, I don’t think his treatment is working, please scan him… as I’m having to flush blood clots through his catheter each day.
Why has it taken months of horrific suffering and this consultant has taken action in 3 days.
My Dad deserved so much more than this. I am truly heartbroken by the whole process.
The point of this message. Patients, advocate for yourself. We may not have medical degrees but we know our bodies. If you’re too poorly to push, get someone to push for you. Doctors… we may not have a medical degree but we know our bodies. PLEASE LISTEN TO US