Good news is yes, you can go public in your treatment. Don't let them bully you that they can't. As to work, don't think about tomorrow, just get through today. Hour by hour or minute by minute if you have to. Just focus on getting through that bit. Would cold packs help with the pain and swelling a bit? You shouldn't have to live in pain. Get up that GP doctor for some more pain meds or if they interfere with you working, Panadol can be taken more often than recommended dose rate. Consult your Doctor. If you can't get to one, try the emergency dept at the public hospital after work. When I had seroma during xmas and new year a few years ago, I rocked up to the emergency dept a couple of times for draining as my GP was away.
I have never paid for any scans, tests, or surgery as I went public with everything.
There is nothing wrong with a nice sedate 50th birthday but pencil that trip in as a goal to achieve after treatment and recovery. You need something to work toward. <3
