Week 6: The Power of Self-Advocacy – Becoming Your Own Best Ally

⚔ Warrior’s Law: Question Everything – This Is Your Life, Not Theirs

You are not just a patient—you are a partner in your healing. Speak up, question often, and never hand over your power.

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Why “That’s Just the Way It Is” Is Not a Good Enough Answer

As cancer warriors, we’re constantly told:

“That’s just a side effect of treatment.”

“It’s normal—you’ll get used to it.”

“Let’s wait and see.”

And for a while, we believe it—because these words come from experts.

But the truth is:

⚔ Warrior’s Code #6: Master the Art of Self-Advocacy – Ask questions, demand answers, and make informed decisions.

Just because something is common doesn’t mean it’s acceptable.

If it affects your peace, your mobility, your quality of life—it matters.

• Lingering pain? Ask.

• A side effect disrupting your life? Challenge it.

• A gut feeling something’s wrong? Speak it.

This is your body. Your life. Your voice.

Warrior’s Code #4: Own Your Story – Speak your truth and control your narrative; don’t let cancer write your script.

Not Every Symptom Is “Just Cancer” – When to Push for Answers

Doctors see thousands of cancer patients, and over time, their responses may become automatic.

But you are not a statistic—you are a whole person.

Personal Story: When My Pain Was Dismissed

I had intense pelvic pain. Walking was unbearable.

My oncologist told me, “It’s not cancer-related—talk to your PCP."

But how was I supposed to know what was or wasn’t cancer-related? I’d never had cancer before.

Warrior’s Code #20: You Are a Warrior, Not a Victim – The mindset you adopt determines how you conquer.

I followed their advice. My PCP found nothing but gave me antibiotics “just in case.

”Things got worse.

It wasn’t until I broke down and cried that I got referred to a specialist.

Diagnosis: Myofascial pelvic pain—a stress-induced condition.

I needed therapy, medication, and care—not dismissal.

Warrior’s Code #1: Claim Your Power – Cancer does not define you; you define how you fight it.

Lesson: If it doesn’t feel right—don’t stop asking. Push for better. You know your body.

Choosing the Right Medical Team – Trust Is Everything

You are placing your life in someone’s hands. That means trust must exist.

✔ Do they listen?

✔ Do they explain things clearly?

✔ Do they advocate for your best care—or just follow the rulebook?

Personal Story: Choosing a Doctor I Clashed With

At University Hospitals, I had the option to choose my oncologist.

I chose someone I clashed with often. Why?

Because she didn’t care about being liked—she cared about results.

She fought for her patients, questioned the system, and didn’t settle.

I needed a warrior beside me—not a cheerleader.

📌 Lesson: You don’t have to like your doctor—but you must trust them to fight for your life.

Understanding Oncologists – Why They May Seem Emotionally Distant

Cancer doctors face the harshest truths every day.To survive emotionally, some shut down compassion and focus on logic.

It’s not that they don’t care—it’s that caring too much can break them.

• They operate from data, not feelings.

• They make tough decisions every day.

• They often see death before they see healing.

Warrior’s Code #19: Know When to Surrender, Know When to Fight – Strength is in knowing the difference.

You may feel like just another patient—but remember:

You can bring your humanity into the room.

And if it’s not returned, you have every right to find someone who balances both skill and care.

Balancing Your Expectations – What Do You Really Need?

Every warrior has a different threshold for what matters in a care provider.

Ask yourself:

• Do I want someone emotionally present, or fiercely logical?

• Can I accept a tradeoff if it means better care?

• What kind of support do I expect in return?

Warrior’s Code #10: Faith and Science Can Coexist – Lean into both; healing is mental, spiritual, and medical.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

But knowing your expectations gives you the power to make the right choice for you.

Self-Advocacy Exercises – Building Your Voice in the Doctor’s Office

🛡 1. The “Does This Make Sense?” Method

When you receive advice or a treatment plan, ask:•

Does this make sense to me?

• Do I understand it?

• Do I feel heard and respected?

If not, press pause and ask for clarity.

🛡 2. Create a Medical Confidence Plan

Before your next appointment:

• Write down 3 questions you need answered.

• Identify 1 concern you will not leave unaddressed.

• Remind yourself: “I am in control of this conversation.”

Warrior’s Code #3: Hope is Your Strongest Weapon – Never underestimate the power of belief in your survival.

🛡 3. Know When It’s Time for a Second Opinion

You are never locked into one opinion.

If you feel:

• Dismissed

• Ignored

• Pressured or rushed

It’s okay to walk away and get another voice at the table.

Warrior’s Code #12: Find Purpose in Pain – Use your journey to inspire and help others.

Sometimes, advocating for yourself gives others the courage to do the same.

Reclaiming Power – Your Life, Your Voice, Your Choice

Doctors are trained in medicine.

You are trained in yourself.

Warrior’s Code #2: Armor Up with Self-Love – Your self-esteem is your shield; protect it fiercely.

Speak up.

Challenge assumptions.

Refuse to settle for care that doesn’t honor the warrior in you.

This is your life.

And you get one chance to live it boldly, fully, and on your own terms.