Having had management roles for 20 plus years, I had some idea about being organised and bossing people around. After getting through the shock of being told I had cancer in my right lung I had no choice but to get moving. My first few days of acceptance took me to a dark and very lonely place. It was unfamiliar territory and I chose to get out quickly.
I decided to project manage my health and assumed the role of CEO of GIGI & Co. Every CEO knows the importance of recruiting competent staff to promote and drive the corporate vision! Well, my situation wasn't any different. I selected a leadership team who I allowed to get close during my illness. Handpicked members of my family headed up by my amazing sister, various friends who to this day have stuck by me on a daily basis, doctors, specialists and healers! My husband was my trusted advisor and the Operations Director. The most important message I have for you today is that you select your team as soon as possible. Time is of essence so get cracking!
My second message for you is to go doctor shopping and aim for the best. Not every doctor/oncologist/surgeon you visit will be suited to you. This is the time to buy the best you can. Call every hospital in your area, call your friends and ask them if they know of anyone they may recommend.
As an example, my first oncologist, albeit a great breast cancer and prostate cancer specialist was not the right doctor for me. He told me he wasn't familiar with my illness and at the same time told me "if not treated, you may last 4-6 months". I always said the key to a great relationship was open and honest communication. Well, I felt my doctor and I spoke different languages let alone be able to communicate. Listen to you gut ... and go with the team that feels right.
We went doctor shopping and after 4 weeks we found two specialists. Both recommended by different friends and unbeknown to me ... both worked together 1. Professor of Oncology and 2. Professor of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. Both these doctors saw me within a few days of making the call and both had treated advanced invasive Thymoma State IV A.
Top tips for today:
1. Entrust family and friends with key roles and responsibilities ... DELEGATE
2. Find the person who knows most about your disease
3. Quality lasts .. don't settle for second best
As I had four weeks to get myself organised, process the information, find the right specialist for me and research all about Chemotherapy and Thymoma, the next few blogs will have loads of information to help you get through a challenging and busy time. Being the CEO of your health is a very busy role.
Gigi, You are an inspiration and inspire others to be the very best they can be. You encourage me to consider my life, and all it's facets and live that life to the fullest.
ReplyDeleteFor those of you who don't know Gigi, I am blessed, thankful and honoured to know her as a special friend.
Gigi and her partner have both battled Thymoma over the last 12 months in very different ways, and feel that Gigi's story and passion for living in the moment will inspire you to challenge your life, encourage you to be better and do better and support you through your life's journey.
Love you Gigi, Tony xx