Deciding what reconstruction is right for you can be overwhelming, the medical terminology can be confusing and it can be just plain scary. And lonely. But you're not alone.
My name's Luan. In 2017 I was diagnosed with breast cancer and told I needed a mastectomy. I had no idea about the different types of reconstruction and didn't know anyone who'd had a reconstruction. Hearing about my reconstruction options gave me hope that I could be 'me' again. I'm creating a community that supports and empowers women who want to know more about reconstruction after a mastectomy so that they can feel confident in their choices.
On the Rewritten Me podcast I talk with leading surgeons about all aspects of reconstruction, including the latest techniques that they're developing to help improve women's quality of life after a mastectomy. I also talk with healthcare professionals who can help with practical advice to support mental, physical and emotional wellbeing after reconstruction. And I talk with the wonderful women from our community who generously share their stories to help inspire and raises awareness of life after breast cancer and reconstruction.
Rewritten Me is here to help women make an holistic, informed decision so that they can have a say in how they re-write their story.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Deciding what reconstruction is right for you can be overwhelming, the medical terminology can be confusing and it can be just plain scary. And lonely. But you're not alone.
My name's Luan. In 2017 I was diagnosed with breast cancer and told I needed a mastectomy. I had no idea about the different types of reconstruction and didn't know anyone who'd had a reconstruction. Hearing about my reconstruction options gave me hope that I could be 'me' again. I'm creating a community that supports and empowers women who want to know more about reconstruction after a mastectomy so that they can feel confident in their choices.
On the Rewritten Me podcast I talk with leading surgeons about all aspects of reconstruction, including the latest techniques that they're developing to help improve women's quality of life after a mastectomy. I also talk with healthcare professionals who can help with practical advice to support mental, physical and emotional wellbeing after reconstruction. And I talk with the wonderful women from our community who generously share their stories to help inspire and raises awareness of life after breast cancer and reconstruction.
Rewritten Me is here to help women make an holistic, informed decision so that they can have a say in how they re-write their story.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What does MDT mean? How do they work for patients? Are there breast reconstruction MDTs?
As a patient, learning medical acronyms can be like learning a new language!
In this episode, Luan talks to A/Prof Rhea Liang ,General and Breast Surgeon, about MDTs (Multidisciplinary Team meetings) and their importance in breast cancer treatment.
An MDT can feel like a mysterious behind-the-scenes meeting where your future is decided without you having a say.
Dr Rhea explains how MDTs bring together various healthcare professionals to create a personalised treatment plan for each patient. Dr Rhea also talks about the potential benefits of having a reconstruction-specific MDT and how patient involvement in MDTs in other countries could provide valuable insights into informed decision-making.
But Dr Rhea talks about more than just MDTs. She explains how doctor training has changed over the years, including incorporating patient discussions about holistic care and recognising the different information needs of patients.
It’s important that patients feel empowered to ask questions and seek clarification about any medical terms or procedures they don't understand when considering their reconstruction options.
We hope this episode helps them to feel confident to do just that!
This is part one of my interview with Dr Rhea - subscribe to hear when part 2 drops.
Links for this episode:
Where you can find Luan:
If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636.
The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.