“Before that day, I was a fully functioning person. By that afternoon, my life had changed completely.”
In 2018 Janet, a 66-year-old book illustrator and teacher of art and creative arts, had her life turned completely upside down. A tongue biopsy led to devasting impact.
"The aftermath was devastating. I was unable to speak, eat, or drink normally for more than eight weeks. Many of the symptoms continue today including pain, swelling, and frequent lesion and ulcers. I also developed another incurable stress-related condition called burning mouth syndrome."
Janet later discovered that the tongue biopsy had been clinically unnecessary. The life-changing impact of her biopsy has left her unable to fully work, and it even impacts her social life. It has left her living a life that feels "isolating".
Janet’s harm did not come from a complex medical procedure gone wrong, but from a decision that should never have been made, followed by a lack of information, aftercare, and support.
These system failures, unnecessary intervention, gaps in communication, and an absence of compassionate follow-up allowed avoidable harm to take root and continue.
For Janet and many others who have faced medical harm, it is not only the physical impact on their life that has left them feeling let down by those in charge of their healthcare, but also the lack of answers.
"I received no information, no aftercare, and no compassion. I’ve had to fight for every piece of information and support since then."
When things go wrong, people deserve openness and information.
By giving a monthly donation this Christmas, you can help AvMA be there for more people like Janet, ensuring they receive the transparency, empathy and support they deserve when going through the most difficult of times.
