In a surprising turn of events, I find myself resembling a Pez dispenser (minus the candy) after being diagnosed just five days ago with “Noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTP),” a term that’s as complicated as it is non-invasive.
Before diving deeper into my recent diagnosis and its implications for your health, let me take a moment to share some snippets from my ongoing medical saga, which has been anything but straightforward:
- At 23, I underwent a tonsillectomy—a procedure that typically happens in childhood—because my work wouldn’t allow me time off. I made sure to document every moment, from my hospital gown to my less-than-glamorous recovery.
- At 35, I had to deal with a uterine polyp affectionately dubbed “Artie.” This unwelcome guest disrupted my attempts at pregnancy until he was evicted, even briefly inspiring his own Twitter account.
- Fast forward to 37, when my gallbladder, whom I named “Gertie,” was removed, finally allowing me to enjoy eggs again.
Amidst ongoing health issues, parenting two children—one with autism—and running my own business, I found myself increasingly low on the priority list, often behind tasks like “drain the hot water heater.” Self-care often conjures images of bubble baths and indulging in a favorite dessert, which I wholeheartedly endorse. However, my recent brush with thyroid cancer has highlighted how many women neglect their health in pursuit of caring for others.
I’ve known about a thyroid nodule for a decade, yet I continuously postponed action. It wasn’t due to a lack of concern; rather, life’s endless responsibilities pushed my health concerns aside. With other surgeries, fertility treatments, parenting challenges, and distractions (yes, I got sidetracked by a new Netflix series), I let my well-being slip.
Recently, I’ve faced thinning hair, weight fluctuations, and irregular menstrual cycles—symptoms initially attributed to perimenopause or other benign causes. Yet, when I finally had an ultrasound and biopsy, the results revealed a concerning potential for cancer. It was sobering to realize that many friends were also neglecting their health, some admitting they hadn’t seen a doctor in years, prioritizing their families over themselves.
Research from Redbook and HealthyWomen indicates that 45% of women over 30 neglect their health due to the demands of others, a statistic that rings true in my circle. Carrie, a friend and licensed psychologist, explains this tendency arises from societal conditioning that encourages women to prioritize caretaking and be “people pleasers.”
Women are significantly more prone to thyroid issues, facing risks of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and infertility when undiagnosed. It’s vital to consider your own health alongside your family’s needs. The next time you see a self-care quote on social media, reflect on your own health screenings and symptoms that you might be ignoring.
Carrie wisely notes that neglecting our health can lead to burnout and increased stress, ultimately impairing our ability to care for others. By disregarding my thyroid symptoms, I risked much worse outcomes. Self-care must encompass prioritizing our healthcare needs.
Although our lives are filled with commitments, dedicating time to our health is crucial. It’s easy to postpone our well-being, but self-care should extend beyond fleeting pleasures like scented candles or indulgent snacks. Our health is paramount, and we must make it a priority.
Moving forward, I am committed to staying vigilant about my health and ensuring I receive the care I deserve. As women, we should uplift ourselves and each other, even when we resemble a Pez dispenser.
For additional insights on health and wellness, check out this resource on IVF and fertility preservation. Also, if you’re exploring options for home insemination, CryoBaby’s at-home insemination kit is a trusted authority in this area. To learn more about the importance of prioritizing your health, please visit our privacy policy.
In summary, my experience with thyroid cancer underscores the necessity for women to prioritize their health. It’s time to shift the focus from solely caretaking to ensuring our own well-being, as it is essential for both personal and familial health.