Navigating Breast Cancer: From Surgeon to Patient, and Dealing with Post-Reconstruction Nipple Issues
Dr. Liz O'Riordan, a breast surgeon who was diagnosed with breast cancer, reflects on her experience and the lessons she learned. She admits to not regularly checking her own breasts because she believed being a breast surgeon made her immune to the disease. However, when she was diagnosed, she experienced the physical and emotional toll of treatment, including the loss of fertility. Dr. O'Riordan emphasizes the importance of doctors understanding the patient experience and recommends that they explore online resources and breast cancer forums to better support their patients. Despite having to retire due to complications from her cancer, she now helps others through blogging and videos.