Weavers Story Bank

I didn’t let the doctor overrule my opinion

Lauren has been living with MS for 31 years. Matt has always passionately advocated for Lauren’s rights.

Lauren had a change in medication and took a turn for the worse; I noticed changes and new symptoms that were not normal. My doctor overruled me…

I kept a list of all the changes and unusual things that I observed, there were 11 new symptoms in total. I took this list to my neurologist at the time when they overruled my concerns I refused to accept that and told him “I have been living with Lauren longer than you have been a neurologist” and demanded a second opinion.

I went to see a second doctor who identified Lauren had been given the wrong medication. Within three days of changing medication Lauren showed signs of returning to normal.

I didn’t let the doctor overrule my opinion; even though he is a professional I live with Lauren and know what’s normal and what’s not. For me, being assertive about getting second opinion meant I could ensure that we were getting the right medical advice.