In listening to my peers who’s experience comes from their own, opposed to a Dr. sharing other’s experiences with us, and feeling like there may be an opportunity to gain more knowledge, we have decided to obtain a second opinion. The more eyes the better right?
It’s a weird feeling. I feel almost like we are doing something wrong or cheating on our Dr. that diagnosed Mermaid. I need to constantly remind myself that I am Mermaid’s advocate and if I settle, am I really doing what’s best for her?
My question to you guys is… Have you obtained a 2nd opinion? If you say No, will you share with us why? Please answer below. Thanks everyone!
Mommy's Mermaid 
I never have. The treatment I’ve received from my derm, and everything she has had me try, has worked so far. But, if it didn’t work, I wouldn’t hesitate to try something else or somewhere else.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for your thoughts S!
LikeLike
In my opinion, you’re absolutely doing the right thing by obtaining a second opinion. My gut tells me that your guilt is probably because you are too close to both sides of the coin. Being in the medical field, you most likely feel more of a connection and obligation to her current doctor than most people would.
However, because you are in the medical field, you also know all too well that no one doctor can be an expert at everything…this is why people have specialties. You obtaining a second opinion is not an insult to your doctor, it’s an attempt to ensure that you are seeking out the best care you can for your daughter. Considering her condition isn’t common and there’s no known cure, seeking additional opinions is even more important. If there’s a doctor out there that specializes in this sort of condition or something closely related, who can provide your daughter more informed care than her current physician, I would think that your doctor, as a professional, would understand.
At the very least, you will solidify your faith in your current doctor.
After all, the best care possible is your goal here. Unfortunately, the steps necessary to getting there will involve (already have) tough choices.
Press on Ma! You’re doing great!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Your right Aimee, my profession puts a different spin on things for sure. I just want to make sure all the t’s are crossed and i’s are dotted while she is young so we know how to plan for the future. As always, thank you for reading and sharing your thoughts, myself and readers alike appreciate everyones views.
LikeLike
I agree with Aimee’s words.
With my own health concerns, I wish I had sought a second opinion earlier, especially from a medical professional differing in nature and background than the one who initially diagnosed me (western vs eastern)… I did not know there could be more done earlier – and trusted others who’ve worked in that field for many years. They were wrong – because they discounted medicine and health solutions outside their idea of medicine… Or were possibly too concerned with how it might appear referring me outside their network.
If the questions are left more unanswered than answered, there is a rational duty to find some sense and connection to what steps can be done at this given point…
There’s a time to realize we don’t have control and or knowing (or very lil of either) – but it shouldn’t be the default feeling.
Like Aimee said, if after seeking further knowledge and sound opinion, you receive the same sort of information, you can better trust your initial doctor.
PS: You’re a wonderful mom regardless.
LikeLike
I didn’t get a second opinion yet. I at 30yrs old just was finally told what it is I have, epidermis nevus. I went to a dermatologist when I was younger and was treated horribly. He never told me or my mom what it was called and said it was the worst case he had seen. I ended up leaving feeling like a freak! Didn’t help that I got picked on in school for it. I literally grew up thinking I was some kind of freak. I got the nerve up to see another recently and he gave me a diagnosis but told me if they try to remove it that it may scar. He told me that now that I’m older it shouldn’t bother me anymore. I do want a second opinion as he made me feel terrible as bad as the first Dr did. I just unfortunately can’t afford it. I’m getting married soon and wanted to feel my best and wanted to have the majority of them removed. I have a ton on my neck, chest, left shoulder and left arm also down my back. I feel sad that I may be stuck with this the rest of my life.
LikeLike
I voted no, but we consulted several surgeons. We were reading our daughter’s dermatologists articles before we knew she would be our derm, so we trust her opinion. The team has been encouraging of other opinions. They want us to be confident in our care and get the best care, even if it isn’t from them! I’d question any doctor that wasn’t supportive of other opinions!
LikeLike
We are in the process of getting a second opinion from a derm doctor. Im not 100 % satisfied with ours i feel like he does not take enough time answering my questions and tries not to give any details.
From my own experience working at a cancer center our doctors dont mind the patients getting 2nd opinions they actually encourage them. 🙂
LikeLike