How to Advocate for the Best Care, No Matter the Diagnosis

Receiving a cancer diagnosis is overwhelming—countless decisions to make and so much urgency.

When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I met with a care team at a good, local hospital. They walked me through the next steps, but something didn’t feel right. 

I didn’t feel I connected with all the doctors.

I already had the biopsy results and talked with a knowledgeable care team, so initially I didn’t think a second opinion was needed. 

But my husband and I agreed: it couldn’t hurt, so I called a well-known cancer center.

Advocating for Myself

What I learned after getting a second opinion there is that it’s not just repeating the diagnosis. 

It’s about exploring all treatment options, finding a team you connect with, getting questions answered, and advocating for the best possible outcome.

The biggest surprise? The hospital that gave me the diagnosis encouraged it. They weren’t offended; they wanted me to feel confident in my care.

Whether it’s cancer or something less serious, trust your gut. 

Get a second opinion. You deserve to feel certain about the path ahead so you can make the best choice for yourself.

Photo credit: @bermixstudio

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