places that change you

I realize that I could have had my hysterectomy done right here in the amazing medical community that I live in and I would also have had outstanding care. Yet, I needed to separate my home world from the surgery required to get me back to my ground zero. I wasn't really sure what that even was at this point, after all of these years. I did associate, however, the (exaggerated slightly -- but just slightly) millions of doctors appointments, waiting rooms, and corridors I've been down over the last twelve years and for me to take this next step I needed a solid, intentional break. Psychologically, I was ragged and in my fear of the unknown outcome of what I was diving into, I needed my starting point to be a fresh cut, unfamiliar, unassociated path that would allow me to use all of my energy to leap forth and hopefully return home stronger. I feel like this has happened.

I had never been to Mayo Clinic prior to the need for their services for myself. When I googled the best OB/GYN hospital in the United States, it appeared at the top of the results. I called and had an appointment the next week. Paperwork was smooth, their medical system connected to ours, making the destination care that much more reasonable. I've always been about second opinions and whenever I've heard of any major health concern shared with me, I always suggest/recommend/urge people to make sure they are going to the best place for their needs.

Advocating is a strenuous business and advocating for yourself is exhausting when you are feeling depleted. Yet, I will remain steadfast that the one who knows what is best for you is you. Advice is great -- seeking opinions is critical in a world where there is so much unknown to us. And so you can feel better about this -- because I know that oftentimes we worry about "hurting" our providers feelings by looking at other options -- but know this -- a good provider will understand. At the end of the day, your provider will get in their car and go to their house. They will make their dinner, take out their trash and sleep in their bed. You will go to your house and you will do all of the things that you must do to live. If you got in a fender bender and needed to get your car fixed -- unless your uncle owns the shop, you might look into another quote (your insurance may insist on it). If you get your gutters cleaned or your windows washed, you might get a few quotes to make sure they are in line with each other. You should do nothing less than everything when it comes to your own body and your own healthcare. Health is an amazing thing and I don't know how often we stop to appreciate this fact as much as we should.

I am grateful. I am getting another chance to get my health, my life, back on track. I will take it and I will forever be grateful to Mayo, to Dr. Burnett, and the amazing staff that helped me find my grounding once again.