Laurie MacCaskill: Cancer Warrior

To close out Breast Cancer Awareness month, I’d like to share a valuable story I learned from a dear friend, Laurie MacCaskill, who has valiantly fought and survived pancreatic cancer for over 18 years.

A passionate advocate, coach and inspiration for all cancer patients, Laurie continues to tackle her long journey with love, kindness, resilience, and shares lessons learned in speaking engagements, on IG and with anyone who asks.

A key point she reinforces is about *keeping good records*, which I am sharing with you below in her own words - which are the most powerful:

🗣 "When I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, I was unprepared for the level of organization and commitment needed. From day one, I began documenting everything: appointments, treatments, medication names, side effects, every test and scan. Having never been seriously ill before, I had no idea how vital this would be for my survival.
🗣 After over three years of grueling chemotherapy, I was eventually given just three months to live. Then, a friend recommended a new doctor. However, there was a hurdle - he wasn't accepting new patients. With pancreatic cancer, you don't have the luxury of time. I was determined, calling three to four times daily for a week but each time the answer was the same: NO.
🗣 In a last attempt, I condensed my medical records and overnighted them to his office. By the next afternoon, not only did I have an appointment within three days, I was also asked to teach a record-keeping course.
🗣 Now, it has been 18 years, and digital records are more accessible, however my organizational method provided me with so much comfort and gave me back some control I had lost via my diagnosis.
🗣 While technology has made record keeping easier, I still advocate creating a few concise spreadsheets with the most relevant information for each doctor’s visit. Presenting this to new doctors can earn you some respect. More often than not, my appointments are extended beyond the usual 20 minutes, allowing for more in-depth conversations. I feel heard and successfully create meaningful connections which is an invaluable asset to my healing journey.
🗣 During this challenging time, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, especially with ‘chemo brain’. My advice…Be meticulous about documenting every detail.  It might seem excessive, but organized records can make all the difference - they could even save your life!” - Laurie MacCaskill

Thank you Laurie! Remember, you can take control of your health and see your doctor regularly to be screened for cancers by getting a mammogram, pap, prostate exam and a colonoscopy.

To your vitality,
Lizanne

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