You're Not Being Difficult: You're Not Getting Answers - Medical Dismissal, Informed Consent, and Self-Advocacy

In this week's episode, Jes shares about a recent GI appointment that left her needing more information and clarity which is something that, after cancer, doesn't feel optional. Wanting to understand your symptoms, your options, and your plan isn't refusal. It's informed consent. Den brings both clinical and lived-experience insight, breaking down why clear explanations matter in chronic illness care and sharing a practical list of questions you can take with you to your next appointment to feel more prepared and empowered. This conversation is for anyone who has ever left an appointment feeling rushed, dismissed, or unsure — and is learning how to advocate for themselves without apologizing. 💬 Stay Connected Follow us on TikTok and Instagram, and join our free Support Circle for people who've been touched by cancer or chronic illness.   📝 SHOW NOTES: Questions to Bring to Your Next Appointment • What is the working diagnosis right now? • What are we ruling out? • Why are you recommending this medication or treatment? • What benefits should I expect? • What are the risks or side effects? • How will we know if this is working? • What should improvement look like, and in what timeframe? • What's the plan if this doesn't help? • Are there alternative options? • What follow-up or monitoring will be done? • When should I reach out if symptoms change or worsen? We hope these questions help you at your next apt.    📅 Scheduling  - There will be no new episode next week, Dec 24. We'll be back December 31st with a final episode to close out the year.