The importance of Advocacy – for my dear mum
Four weeks ago, not long after writing my third blog post, I sat in the hospital. I was holding my mum’s hand for the last time as she slowly passed away.
My mum gave me so many skills growing up. She taught me the importance of never giving up. She instilled belief that I could do or achieve anything. She taught me how to fight my own corner. To live by the rule of I can rather than I can’t.
All these skills and more have at some point, helped me fight for the healthcare I have needed. They have helped me hit many milestones. Like becoming one of the youngest surgical vascular patients. The first patient to be awarded a Flowtron for home use by the then PCT.
They have helped me fight for treatment, care and medication. All of which I have needed over the past 21 years. Yet for the last three years of my mum’s life she never once used any of these skills. She never let me use any of these skills on her behalf. Perhaps if she had of done she would still be here today.
Self advocacy is your strongest tool in getting the right healthcare. Understanding and knowing your rights. Being aware of guidance and the local interpretation of this. Asking questions. Saying NO when something isn’t right. Asking for an explanation when you do not understand. All these actions may sound quite militant. However, they are essential if you intend to live and not simply survive when you are hit by chronic illness.
Mum, I wished you had, practiced what you preached. Especially over the last few years. However, thank you for raising me with the ability to stand up for myself. To be my own advocate and to educate other people in how to be their own too.
The skills you have given me have allowed a life to be lived way past survival .
Welcome to The Impatient Patient 