Jade, returning to work in her rural GP practice after maternity leave, found herself excessively fatigued. With limited access to her own regular doctor, she attributed her tiredness to managing both a challenging workload and caring for her infant daughter. When she developed unexplained ecchymosis on her legs, she sought medical help. Her blood tests saw her admitted to hospital with subsequent investigations leading to a diagnosis of leukemia.
This profound diagnosis triggered a whirlwind of emotions for Jade, her comprehension of the magnitude accelerated by her professional understanding of prognosis, treatments, and risks. Balancing her roles as a new mother and a healthcare professional, she focussed on practicalities, a common reflex in such circumstances which defers the processing of emotions.
Amidst navigating the impact on herself, her husband Matt, and her family, Jade faced the daunting task of abandoning her rural GP practice, with no doctor available to replace her. She was overwhelmed by the physical limitations imposed on her by illness and had to stop working. Jade emotionally found leaving work indefinitely, very hard to accept. They had always prided themselves on their self-reliance and found it difficult to ask for help. Jade was especially fearful to show she was vulnerable as it clashed with her professional image and the core of self-identity.
The couple faced immense financial strain as Matt also needed to stop work to look after their baby daughter and Jade. They did not have income protection insurance and their savings were not enough to cope with this extended loss of income. The sudden change in roles and circumstances strained their relationship. Their daughter became clingy and difficult to settle. Sleep deprivation heightened stress levels in the household. A doctor friend called and disclosed they had been helped by MBA NSW-ACT and recommended Jade make contact.
Initially reticent, Jade did call a week later and spoke with one of MBA’s Senior Social Workers. She immediately felt unburdened, understood, and validated. In addition to counselling, Jade was offered practical guidance and was encouraged to apply for immediate financial assistance to pay their overdue utility bills. She also was referred to the Cancer Council. Over the next few months, Jade and Matt had counselling with the MBA Social Worker to navigate the emotional toll of her illness and the challenges of adjusting their parenting expectations. They benefited from the opportunity to reflect on the enormity of the impact and explore ways to steer their new reality.
Later, MBA NSW-ACT referred the couple to their financial counselling partner, who assisted Jade to draw down some of her superannuation and to restructure their finances. Jade has since responded to immunotherapy treatment and is currently in remission. With ongoing assistance from MBA and their local support services, she feels they are all doing well. Jade plans to resume part-time work next month.
The call to MBA NSW-ACT marked a pivotal moment for Jade and her family. Unfortunately, her story is all too common and an example of life’s unpredictability. It illustrates the negative impact of delays to see a health provider; the value of doctors having their own GP and prioritising regular visits. It underscores the advantage of Income Protection, often overlooked by young doctors due to its cost. However, if available when needed, it alleviates much of the financial stress, allowing you to focus your energy on recovery.
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