Open Letter
- Kylie Leeson
- Dec 12, 2018
- 2 min read
Dear Doctor,
From the bottom of my heart I want to Thank You!
You and I have been on a journey together for the past couple of years. I came into your office with no knowledge of what was happening, my local GP had noticed something in a random blood test when I was checking my hormone levels, she organised an immediate ultrasound to check my spleen then had gave me a referral to visit the hematology ward where you work. She did try to explain to me what she thought may be happening however couldn't confirm and to be honest I was already in panic mode because I knew something wasn't right so my ability to listen was not fully available.
The day I met you was the moment I had stepped into the cancer ward. My mind was running away from me with confusion and fear. I was first introduced to a male doctor who looked at my health history, asked me a series of questions then contacted you for your guidance. Once you met me and looked over my chart you had made a decision that allowed me to become your patient and for that I am forever grateful.
Instantly you began the process to find out my diagnosis. That day you organised a series of blood tests with hopes that I would not have to come back to visit you for a few months. You were calm, cool and collected and instantly settled me and made me feel cared for. That afternoon you had called me as my blood test results were of concern. Instantly I knew the news was going to be bad however you still didn't cause any panic and calmly advised me to come back the next day.
I came back and did another blood test. The results were worse. However you remained calm, sat me down and discussed with me what was happening inside my body. You gave great detail, even though my mind couldn't fully comprehend. You also discussed options of treatment with me and didn't force any options down my throat. You passed on your knowledge and let me decide which course of action was best suited to me.
You continued to monitor me rather than just sending me away. You watched and evaluated my every visit. When things were looking grim you made a call to ensure that my diagnosis was correct - that I actually had ITP (Immune Thrombocytopenia) not Leukemia. You sent me away for a bone marrow test but once again you kept your calm. When the results came back clear you celebrated with me and remained focused to ensure I was getting the best possible care.
You have helped me, guided me and never over treated me. You educated me about my condition, about each treatment method and offered advise however never forced me down a path I was not enlightened to take.
You have celebrated my ups and consoled me on my downs. Never have you once been anything but helpful, kind and dependable.
Thank you for every word, every meeting, every evaluation. I am so grateful for the day you took on my case.
Regards
Kylie xoxoxo