I haven't avoided seeking medical attention even when I've encountered medical providers who seemed rushed and impatient. It's very difficult to open up to a medical provider under those conditions and particularly if you haven't seen that provider before. I worked at a clinic at one time on a memory care team and the neurologist rushed, was impatient, and often interrupted the patients. I talked with him more than once about that as I don't think he had much awareness of the dynamic that was happening. When I met with the patients (and often the family) I learned to take it slow. That has more to do, unfortunately, with the medical system that they work for and it's been this way for a long time. I don't anticipate that changing anytime soon.

Fortunately, all of the medical providers I have encountered since I began this cancer journey have spent enough time with me so that, I felt heard, were empathic, and skilled. All of these medical providers have been at Mayo Clinic in Rochester. I do feel heard and well cared for by my primary care physician in my hometown.

Mayo Clinic Connect is my best support system too.