"Cared for during my recovery journey"

I was discharged recently from KEMH ward 6 for elective surgery, including hernia repair and investigative exploration for possible recurrence of cancer. Leading up to this, last year I was diagnosed with Uterine Leiomyosarcoma after a rather hellish year from being shunned from ER; misdiagnosis ;incorrect surgery and referrals; to trying to navigate through what I believe to be fragmented hospital systemic practices and feeling powerless and unheard, and on top learning to deal with a cancer that is aggressive and rare with a limited known care plan protocol and resources available. It’s been an incredibly frustrating journey.

However my latest inpatient experience has changed my disposition of mistrust to that of confidence thanks to the my overall treatment by the oncology team headed up by Professor Yee. In my opinion, just by having my surgery personally headed by the Professor as well, was incredible especially considering his calibre and expertise; for his dedicated time to understanding my concerns around proper sarcoma management, and really listening and taking action to address the known issues. I felt heard and acknowledged.  I really felt I was in the right place and hands, having oncology surgeons complete this surgery.

In my opinion my recent experience including the admission process at KEMH and to the actual care from all the amazing nurses during my stay has been outstanding. Every day I was visited by Prof Yee and his fellow/team to check in on my recovery. I was also visited from many support services including pastoral care; dietitian; physios; OTs; and social workers. I came home recently to have rehabilitation equipment already delivered. Everyone I came across was medically professional, caring, supportive and it’s obvious work in an amazing, positive work environment with good leadership.

I cannot say enough how much I appreciate the care and time that has been offered by KEMH onc team and Ward 6. It means so much and I know this will allow me to now to get on with healing not just physically/ physiologically but also build up resolve to moving on and living with a diagnosis such as this. 

Thanks again, I’m recovering now well at home. My small wound is doing marvellously ☺️. Amazing news of biopsy being clear on the abdomen.