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hamsterjill

(15,501 posts)
Mon Jan 10, 2022, 03:08 PM Jan 2022

"You don't ever have to do that again."

Words that I wasn't expecting to hear, but was so grateful to receive.

I am a woman in my mid sixties and I have a breast cyst that was discovered a couple of years ago. Every six months, I have had to have a diagnostic mammogram and an ultrasound to monitor that cyst. I went for those tests last week, and as with every time I'm there, I try to think positively, but there is always a bit of fear and dread that creeps in - especially while waiting to be moved from one test to the next, etc.

As the ultra sound was completed, the tech told me to wait in the room, and that the radiologist would come in and let me know if they needed any additional views, etc., and what the findings were. You always feel so small and helpless at this point.

It, of course, seemed like an eternity until the door finally opened.

It was the ultrasound tech with a big smile on her face. She said, "Ma'am, the radiologist is satisfied that we've monitored this condition long enough to determine that it is a benign situation. So, you don't ever have to do that again". You can go back to regular, yearly screenings at this point.

It took a minute to register and for the absolute elation to show on my face, but when it did register, I thanked her profusely for the news. The same tech has done the ultrasound every time, and the same radiologist has read the results all except one time. I told her that I liked the care that I received at the facility and that I wanted her to know that the compassion shown to me over the last few years was appreciated. I told her that I appreciated her showing up for work every day in a world where doing that could be putting her own life in jeopardy.

I got dressed, skipped to my car, and sat there for a few minutes - feeling grateful and happy. As is my practice, I said a prayer for those who would be at the facility that same day who would not receive positive news. It's all I can do for them.

Just wanted to share my experience. If anyone out there is behind on regular screenings - especially because of COVID - please make your appointment. As I'm aging, I know that there are going to be issues, and I have some other tests due in a month or so. I may not get as good news on those, but it's important to take a moment to be grateful when good news is received.

And I was glad to have gotten that moment this time. Peace to all. God bless the healthcare workers.

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BobTheSubgenius

(11,782 posts)
6. Very, very happy for you!
Mon Jan 10, 2022, 04:14 PM
Jan 2022

After my last colonoscopy, I was told that, because of my age and history of "clear" tests, I don't have to do another one.

Not the same, I realize, and I'm not trying to compare it to your life-threatening situation (now past!) but it was great news to me. Quite a good feeling, isn't it?

badhair77

(4,594 posts)
7. What a relief with such good news.
Mon Jan 10, 2022, 04:34 PM
Jan 2022

I’m sure the tech was grateful for your kind words also. Definitely a good day.

AmBlue

(3,437 posts)
8. Wonderful!
Mon Jan 10, 2022, 04:35 PM
Jan 2022

I know this whole scenario personal and very well as I too got good news. I'm very happy for you!!

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