Having a chronic illness, or a rare illness can be stressful. Not every doctor has heard of all the different types of illnesses, let alone knows how to treat them. In most cases, for instance, in my case I have to drive out of state to a Clinic for treatment. Unfortunately, going to an out of state clinic is bitter sweet.
- Taking time off work
With the long trips to the clinic it can take a while day for one appointment there. When I have several appointments my parents have to take several days off of work. I always feel bad for them to miss work, but they wouldn’t miss these appointments for anything.
- The trips
Unfortunately, the trips are long. For me it takes about 4 hours, or 8 hours roundtrip. I got to a point where I was there twice a month. Thankfully I am there about once a month now. Even though, the trips are extremely boring and long, I am super thankful for all of the staff, for working around me living out of state and have accommodated me and my family.
- The diagnosis
After 6 months of back and forth, hospital visits and tests, almost every doctor in my hometown had turned me away. We came to a point where we had no choice but to go to an out of state clinic. We decided on Cleveland clinic, and that was the best choice we could’ve made. Although it took 2 years for Cleveland clinic to diagnose me, they still figured it out! I am so happy, and thankful for the clinic for diagnosing me, and for the treatment plan! It wasn’t, and still isn’t an easy journey but they never gave up on me, and that’s all I could ask for. For that I’m forever grateful.
Having to drive out of state to a clinic for treatment can be stressful and overwhelming. The traveling and taking off time from work can become arduous, but in the end it can be rewarding. I’m so thankful for Cleveland clinic and everything they have done, and continue to do for me. I truly don’t know what I would have done without the staff their. It makes all of the traveling worth it. ♡
Wow, that is amazing! I live about 45 minutes outside of Cleveland but my hospital system is University Hospitals. They have found many illnesses which I have and they have been doing a good job but I am beyond frustrated. There seems to be no relief for me but, of course, I am very sensitive to big pharm meds and try to use nature’s remedies. Right now they are trying to figure out what is wrong with my digestive system as it seems to have stopped working.
Great blog post! Thank you!
I’m sorry to hear that! I’m the same way regarding medications. I hope you get some relief soon!! Best wishes!
I totally get it! We drive 6 hours round trip to see my Doctors at The Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida.
It is hard but it is worth it!
Thank you so much! You’re exactly right!!
I am so sorry you have to drive so far for treatment, but at least they have a good understanding on how to treat you. I have actually heard really great things about the Cleveland Clinic, so I am actually happy for you that you found them. I am glad you like and feel comfortable with the staff as that IS SO IMPORTANT!! Mackenzie, you have a strength and amazing attitude and I think that is what gets you through all the hard times you have faced. I know how stressful this can be, but you take things in stride and still you are happy and positive! You are a true inspiration and handle everything in such an amazing way!!! I love your attitude and you do have a beautiful and infectious smile!!!
Thank you so much!! I agree, it’s very important to feel good about the staff!! You are so sweet! I try to take after you! Thank you for your kind words, you are so inspiring and encouraging! I always appreciate your sweet comments! Thank you! 💜
God bless you, Mackenzie. So happy that you have found such a place, even though it is hard to get to.
Thank you so much, Lee! That means a lot to me!! Best wishes!
Ha! I can relate, though not nearly as much time/trouble as you go through.
I have a post in the works about how huge the cost is (in time) for visiting even a “local” specialist living in the suburb of a major city full of great hospitals. (About 8 hours round trip for a 30 minute appointment in my case.)
One has to be very privileged to even begin receiving adequate medical care, it seems. It’s crazy.
I’m glad you can relate! That’s a great idea for a post, I can’t wait to read it! You’re exactly right!
I can also relate but traveling time and distance are not the problem for me. My Doctor is really nice and understanding but I just don’t have the money to go very often. sometimes I’m in pain because of it and sometimes because of my disability but I’ve learned to live with it. My prayers are with you and your family. You are so lucky to have a family who cares and looks after you. <3
Thank you so much! I’m glad you can relate, it’s nice to know you’re not alone! Thank you, that means a lot to me! Prayers and peace sent your way!
I’m so sorry you have to go out of state, but I’m glad you were diagnosed so you could move forward with a treatment plan. Not knowing is also a difficult phase to be in. My daughter went through a million tests in a 3-year span before getting diagnosed with PSC. It’s a horrible disease, but at least we know what is causing her pain, etc. You continue to be an inspiration to all of us.
~Lauren 🌼
Thank you so much! I’m so sorry to hear that, but it’s a great sense of relief to find out what has been causing your pain! Thank you! Peace and love sent your way!
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Thank you so much!! 💛😊💙
Mackenzie, actually, I can’t relate. However, from this post my mind interprets that your experience is tough and seems daunting. So my heart goes out to you. I admire your courage and attitude. I am glad you have the support of your parents and the staff of Cleveland clinic. I am proud of them. Just prayed for you.
Wow, thank you so much. I truly appreciate it. Thank you for reading! Best wishes sent your way!