the straw that broke this camels back

Narelle that totally sucks. When I was first being treated in a public hospital I had a GP tell me that I was too young to be there and if everything was clear she didn't want to see me back there until I was 45 (imagine the possible spread in 5 years). Turned out to be after 6 core biopsies and 9 vacuum assisted biopsies Atypical border line DCIS. Then the surgeon I was referred to (still public) told me I only had Hyperplasia (she was very busy and didn't like my questions or the fact I had performed my own research). After explaining to her I had already been told it was Atypical borderline DCIS so for peace of mind I wanted both boobs off , because my Aunt had had cancer twice in both boobs she acted like a condescending B**** and brushed me off as though I was some sort of hypercondriact. Let me just say here that I went to my Mum's GP for a pap smear (have previously had cervical cancer) as mine was on maternity leave. Mum's GP new my family history and told me as I was 40 now I needed to have a mammogram and gave me the referral (I never asked for a mammogram or to be a bc patienta). I very nearly didn't make the appointment I owe her so much. I am a busy part time working, part time studying mother of two with a husband who works away. My gut urged me to make the appointment even though I really didn't have time to attend and had no obvious lumps.

After discovering this surgeon had lied when I called to query the Hyperplasia diagnosis a few days later (trust your gut) I was offered to see the head surgeon the next business day who couldn't perform the diagnostic biopsy in the time frame he wanted so I decided / was advised to go private. I was also told I should never have been told it was only Hyperplasia and that the incident had been reported to the Medical Director.

The diagnostic biopsy was performed privately and confirmed DCIS. A mastectomy of the right breast was advised. Isn't that what I had asked for originally? Not only that but I decided to take the other off also. As I have mentioned on other blogs I had to pay for the side with no cancer or as advised I could wait until I get cancer (how do I sleep, breathe, focus, live, laugh and enjoy life while waiting????? clearly rocks in their heads) in the other side to have it covered.

Am I missing something? What use is early detection if we are not going to get  early intervention with effective treatment. I would absolutely insist on clear margins. I thought that was the whole purpose of surgery. OK I get some women are attached to their boobs, but how can a surgeon sleep at night knowing he might have saved a boob but ultimately lost her life???????????

You are not stupid Narelle you have nursed for many years. Don't let them treat you as though you are. You have bc not a missing brain.

Wishing I could refer you to my private surgeon in WA. He has never once treated me like an idiot and agreed my choice of preventitve treatment was appropriate and required.

Sending you strength to deal with these arrogant professionals. I have even said to my husband at times dealing with a cancer diagnosis is easy compared to endless struggels with impossible surgeons and medical professionals. Even friends and family can be questionable at times.

Thinking of you

Lara xx