Andrea Wilson Woods is a writer who loves to tell stories, and a patient advocate who founded the nonprofit Blue Faery: The Adrienne Wilson Liver Cancer Association. Andrea is the CEO and co-founder of Cancer University, a for-profit, social-impact, digital health company. Her best-selling and award-winning book, Better Off Bald: A Life in 147 Days, is a medical memoir about raising and losing her sister, Adrienne, to liver cancer.
✨A few highlights from the show:
1. Even if there is resistance from the provider and healthcare team, always ask questions. Ask many as you need to ask until you get the information that you need in a way that you understand it. Your life or your loved one's life can depend on it.
2. You have to be a force of nature. You have to stand up for the patient because the patient's focus needs to be on getting well and resting. Often the patient doesn't have the time or energy to participate in those conversations. So the caregiver, whether it's a spouse or a friend, or a parent or sibling, the onus is on the caregiver often to take charge.
3. Always keep track of your medical records. Keep them organized in a binder and in a place where you can easily access them. It is a good idea to have electronic and paper copies. Always keep a medical journal with your notes and observations.
💙🧚📚Follow and connect with Andrea:
Book: https://betteroffbald.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreawilsonwoods/
🦄About Me:
In 2011, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma, out of the blue. I did not have any prior health concerns or issues. Fast forward, the dreaded cancer diagnosis opened my eyes, introduced me to my purpose, and lead me to where I am today.
As a Cancer Doula, I use my 11 years of experience with cancer to support and guide others diagnosed with cancer. Many people are not familiar with what a cancer doula is. Think of me as a personal patient advocate. Schedule a free 30-minute Meet and Greet call to learn more. https://bit.ly/OTOSDiscovery
Learn more about On the Other Side at https://www.ontheotherside.life/.
Follow me on Instagram, connect with me on LinkedIn, or sign up for my bi-weekly newsletter to get information and resources related to cancer.
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Thanks for joining us on today's episode of the Navigating Cancer TOGETHER podcast!
Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.
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