I find myself looking a bit like a Pez dispenser these days—minus the candy, of course. Just five days ago, I received the diagnosis of “Noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTP).” It’s a mouthful, and yes, it’s a form of non-invasive cancer.
Before I dive into my recent health journey and how it might inspire you to prioritize your well-being, let me share a few notable moments from my medical history. My body and I have not always been on friendly terms:
- At 23, I underwent a tonsillectomy, which I had to schedule during my vacation time because my job wouldn’t give me leave. I returned with plenty of photos to share, including ones of me in a hospital gown and, of course, a classic shot of me giving the camera the finger while throwing up.
- Fast forward to age 35, when I discovered a uterine polyp, which I humorously named “Bob the Blocker.” He was an unwelcome tenant in my uterus, preventing my attempts to conceive and even had a brief Twitter presence before being evicted.
- Then, at 37, I bid farewell to my gallbladder, affectionately dubbed “Gary,” which finally allowed me to enjoy eggs again.
Through all these experiences, I’ve faced ongoing health issues, became a mother of two (one of whom is on the autism spectrum), managed a household, dealt with laundry, and juggled a business. Amidst all this, I slowly slipped down my own priority list, often beneath tasks like “Drain the hot water heater.”
When we think of self-care, we often envision sipping tea, indulging in a bath bomb, or sneaking chocolate in the bathroom. While I wholeheartedly support these activities, my recent brush with thyroid cancer has highlighted that many women aren’t just neglecting self-care but are also overlooking their health.
For a decade, I was aware of a nodule on my thyroid but didn’t act on it. This wasn’t out of indifference; I genuinely advocate for health. However, life’s demands always seemed to take precedence. From surgeries and infertility treatments to raising kids and binge-watching Netflix, I constantly found distractions.
Recently, I noticed troubling symptoms—thinning hair, weight gain, irregular periods, and heart issues—which I initially brushed off as signs of perimenopause or low blood pressure. Ironically, when it came to advocating for my own health, I became complacent.
After finally getting an ultrasound and needle biopsy on my thyroid, I learned there was a 5% to 15% chance of cancer. A subsequent genetic analysis showed a 50% chance of malignancy. When the surgery was done, the pathology confirmed the diagnosis of NIFTP.
As I shared this news with friends, many admitted to ignoring their own health issues, with one even confessing she hadn’t had a physical in ten years. Women often prioritize the health of others—children, partners, even aging parents—over their own. This brings to mind a study by Redbook and HealthyWomen, which found that 45% of women over 30 neglect their health due to the demands of caring for others.
I spoke with my friend, Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a clinical psychologist, to understand this further. She explained that societal expectations often place women in caretaker roles, leading them to feel guilty when prioritizing their own needs.
Interestingly, the American Thyroid Association notes that women are significantly more likely than men to face thyroid issues. Moreover, untreated thyroid disorders can elevate the risk of severe conditions like cardiovascular diseases and infertility.
So, I ask you, is there a health concern you’re sidelining? Next time you see a motivational quote about self-care, consider your own health necessities—when was your last check-up? Are you due for a mammogram? What about that nagging pain you’ve been ignoring?
Dr. Mitchell emphasizes that everyone has their breaking point. While it’s commendable to care for others, we must also make room for ourselves. Ignoring our health can lead to burnout and stress, ultimately affecting our ability to care for others.
If I had continued to overlook my thyroid issues (which I’ve humorously named “Sweeney Todd” due to the incision on my throat), the consequences could have been dire. Self-care must encompass our healthcare needs.
We often juggle numerous commitments, but committing to our health is just as vital. It’s easy to push our needs aside, but self-care should extend beyond indulgent treats and brief moments of relaxation. Our lives depend on us being healthy, so we must prioritize our well-being as much as we do for others.
From this point forward, I will remain proactive about my health, ensuring I receive the care I deserve. We, as women, should remind and support one another—even when we feel like a Pez dispenser.
For those interested in more insights, check out this informative article on self-care and its importance in your health journey.
Summary
A recent cancer diagnosis has prompted a reflection on self-care, highlighting the need for women to prioritize their health. Many women often neglect their own health while caring for others. It’s crucial to advocate for oneself and stay vigilant about health concerns, as self-care must include healthcare.