Everyone has a story about our failed health care system. I have mine, but it's no failure.
Ten days ago I went to the Dr. for a minor problem. My doctor is on leave as he's getting a hip replacement. I saw his substitute. A very nice middle aged fellow. I asked him before I left to look at a light red spot on my lower leg. It's been there for years, but it's started to change.
He looked at it and said "this needs to be checked immediately!" He turned to his computer and typed a lot. When he was done he said "a specialist will call you". A specialist did call and I had an appointment yesterday, yes on April Fools Day!
The specialist looked at it and said "it may be okay, but let's be sure, I'll do a biopsy". He froze my leg, I waited 30 minutes and he did a biopsy! He set up a telephone call in three weeks to get the results. Even if it is cancer, it's not a serious type and I shouldn't worry.
My friend who was diagnosed with cancer said British Columbia has a policy all cancer is to been seen within 30 days.
My husband had a biopsy and it was benign. He was told he needed to have the benign growth removed. When I told them of our upcoming cruise, they said "don't worry, cancer patients come first, it will be a while". Who can argue with that? He was operated on December 27th.
I took pictures of my spot so I knew how it changed. Always ask a physician about any moles or spots. I never thought anything about a light red spot in the middle of my leg until it started to change. I'm glad it was seen so quickly and relieved even if it is cancer, its' not a serious cancer.
