By: Sarah Thompson
As I sit here, resembling a Pez dispenser (minus the candy, of course), I can’t help but reflect on my recent diagnosis of “Noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features” (NIFTP)—a term that’s as complicated as it sounds and, thankfully, a non-invasive form of cancer.
Before diving into my diagnosis and why it’s a wake-up call for all women regarding health, let me share a bit of my medical journey, which has often felt like a chaotic relationship with my body.
- At 23, I underwent a tonsillectomy, a procedure typically done in childhood. I had to use vacation time from work and made sure to document the experience. “Here’s me in the hospital gown… this is me feeling nauseous… and here’s a cheeky photo of me with my middle finger up for the camera.”
- Fast forward to 35, I had a uterine polyp I affectionately named “Artie.” Artie was an uninvited guest in my uterus, hindering my attempts to conceive. He even had a brief stint on social media before being evicted.
- Then came my gallbladder, which I named “Gary.” After Gary was removed, I could finally enjoy eggs again.
Throughout the years, I’ve faced various health challenges, became a mother of two (one with autism), managed a household filled with laundry, and juggled a business. Amidst all this, my own health often took a back seat. I found myself below mundane tasks on my priority list, often falling short of putting myself first.
When many think of self-care, they envision indulging in tea, bath bombs, or sneaking a moment to enjoy some chocolate. While I wholeheartedly endorse these practices, my recent experience with thyroid cancer has highlighted a startling truth: many women neglect their health while striving for self-care.
For the past decade, I’ve known about the nodule on my thyroid but chose to ignore it. This neglect wasn’t due to indifference; rather, life’s demands overshadowed my health concerns. I was caught up in surgeries, infertility treatments, raising children, and the distraction of daily life.
In recent years, I noticed troubling signs—thinning hair, weight gain, irregular periods, and heart issues, which I initially attributed to perimenopause or bad luck. While I vehemently advocated for my children’s health, I became complacent about my own.
Eventually, I underwent an ultrasound and needle biopsy, which yielded a 5% to 15% chance of it being cancerous. Further testing revealed a 50% likelihood of malignancy. After surgery, I received the diagnosis of NIFTP. In sharing my news with friends, I was shocked to find many of them had their own health issues that they were ignoring. One of my close friends admitted, “I haven’t seen a doctor in a decade. If I take time off, it’s for my kids, not myself.”
The topic of self-care is frequently discussed, yet as parents, we often forget to prioritize our own well-being. A study by HealthyWomen revealed that nearly 45% of women over 30 neglect their health due to the demands of caring for others. This statistic resonates deeply with me.
In speaking with my friend, Lisa, a licensed psychologist, she explained, “Women are often conditioned to prioritize others’ needs, leading to feelings of guilt when they focus on themselves. The societal expectation to be caregivers makes it hard to advocate for personal health.”
According to the American Thyroid Association, women are significantly more susceptible to thyroid issues, and undiagnosed conditions can lead to severe complications. It’s not just about thyroid health; what other health concerns are you postponing? When you see quotes on social media about self-care, consider your own check-ups and symptoms that need addressing.
We all have our limits. While it’s commendable to care for others, neglecting our health can lead to burnout and strain our ability to support those around us. Ignoring my thyroid symptoms could have resulted in far worse consequences.
We have numerous commitments, but committing to our health is just as vital as any other obligation. Self-care should extend beyond simple pleasures—it must encompass genuine health management.
For me, I’m committed to being proactive about my health, ensuring I receive the care I deserve. As women, we should uplift one another, even when we feel like a Pez dispenser.
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In summary, my journey has taught me the importance of prioritizing health, not just for myself but for those I care for. Let’s not forget to put our own oxygen masks on first.
Keyphrase: Self-Care and Health Awareness
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