IN THIS UPDATE, I WANT TO DELVE INTO THE IMPACT OF ATTENTION IN MEDICAL CARE ON MY HOW I EXPERIENCED THE SURGERY | ON 25TH MARCH, I UNDERWENT A PREVENTATIVE MASTECTOMY. BECAUSE THIS PROCEDURE HAS A COMPLEX IMPACT ON BOTH THE MIND AND THE BODY, I WANT TO WRITE ABOUT THE VARIOUS ASPECTS OF IT IN MY BLOG THIS MONTH.
The personal experience
We often hear that attention and connection in medical care can be invaluable, but it remains abstract. Now, I’ve personally experienced this. And it wasn’t a small matter, as I was going to have my breasts removed.
Completely my own choice, yes. So off I went to the hospital. With complete conviction… though I still felt a slight tension. Because, well, it’s still your breasts that you’re having removed…
Hospital, or not?
Upon arrival, I didn’t think for a moment about being in a hospital. I swear, I’m not advertising. But honestly, it felt more like a spa or hotel. Everything contributed to the experience: the wooded surroundings, the beautifully decorated interior, soothing. Everywhere there were light and cozy sitting areas, small details specially made by volunteers for fellow patients. On my bed lay a welcome package with lovely items, alongside a warm bathrobe. The interaction with the staff was genuinely friendly. I believe they were consciously trained and selected to provide good attention and pleasant interaction. People took their time. They even took time for a chat and didn’t seem rushed. They truly looked at me.
Surgery and post-surgery
The surgery itself was 100% fine with me. From preparation to waking up, everything went smoothly. I felt safe. After the surgery, I woke up feeling fine. Still a bit groggy from the anesthesia, but happy. I chatted and joked with the nursing staff, who thankfully also laughed with me (hopefully not just at me, haha).
Once back in my room, I felt I had space, not only to recover but even to enjoy. From the tranquility, the relief, the view, and the sunbeams shining through my window. And boy, was I hungry! But they took care of that too.
Making a difference
This experience is certainly very special. But why? What makes it special? Every hospital wants to heal, care for, or alleviate your suffering. Every hospital has the knowledge and the desire to help the patient. What’s the difference? I even asked if it was a private clinic. It wasn’t, it was “just” a small hospital. So, what is the difference then?
The answer is abstract: it’s the attention. From environment, to interaction, to care. There was thought put into making it pleasant, comfortable. They took their time. So, what is the value of attention in medical care? FUNDAMENTAL. Though not scientifically measurable, the effect on my body and experience is very concrete, tangible, and visible. It’s not just helpful, but decisive. It makes the difference between suffering and thriving.
This was the second post in a series on the impact of my mastectomy on me, from body to mind. I write one post every week while recovering from the procedure.
