BIPOC patients disproportionately experience gaslighting
Aurlisa
State: Louisiana
Congressional District: LA01
Diseases
Blood Disease, Cancer
Issues and Challenges
Aurlisa has encountered: Access to Medicine, Copay Issues, Discrimination (nonmedical)
My Story
You may have tried to, but living with a terminal disease is harder than you can imagine. The physical pain many of us suffer is enough to deal with and is, on its own, overwhelming. But the fear, uncertainty, and stress of not being able to pay for medication and copayments can certainly become overwhelming even to the strongest person making it feel impossible at times. That hardship is why treating physicians must take the time to listen to their patients.
My cancer journey has tested my resolve countless times, but the worst of my experiences has been the gaslighting, dismissal, and even shaming by the very doctors I rely on to keep me alive. Such treatment is wrong for anyone, but as an African American Woman, studies agree that I experience even more shame and indignity. I want the same respect that other patients receive. I want to be seen, heard, and have my experiences taken seriously. Physicians are experts in broader healthcare, but I am Aurlisa Courtney Isom, and I am an expert when it comes to my pain, symptoms, and my lived experience as it relates to how cancer has affected my life.
My Motivation and Inspiration
I am motivated and inspired to be an advocate for all people because of all the injustices that unfortunately still exist especially for people in BIPOC communities.
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