I am a Super HealthStar. For me the best things that I have discovered about being a patient advocate is my super powers. 
I am more awesome than these 3 actions below, but when it comes to my super powers as The Cheerleader of HOPE, these are the ones I need to live each moment in life to the fullest. Being a patient advocate isn’t easy. Attention is mostly paid to clinicians, administrators, payors, pharmaceutical companies, government agencies and medical device makers. Patients are often an afterthought. But thanks to the determined work of passionate advocates like me, patients are becoming more involved in how care is delivered.
I am organized. I have to be, thank goodness this is my top super power. To accomplish everything I have, especially over the past 18 months, I had to be extremely organized. Luckily, that comes naturally to me. This is literally by talent and superpower. Staying focused through the lockdowns allowed I have to continue to spread my message of hope to the International pain community. I’m hoping and striving to plant seeds so that even if someone doesn’t need my help now, if they or a family member or friend needs them in the future, they’ll look to iPain. I want to plant seeds that grow into trees and be fruitful to help people around the world, even after I am gone.
I have a strong voice. Sharing my story has helped other people find their voice. This is something I am extremely proud of. Sometimes you need the help and sometimes you can give the help. Be willing to do both. That is a super power of a HealthStar.
I am not invisible. In the current state of healthcare, providers don’t have time to teach us all the things we have to learn as patients. It took me three years to get a proper diagnosis and another four years to get proper treatment. My journey is an example of how strong and dedicated patients have to be when it comes to advocating for their own care. I see you. Keep trying. Solutions being shared help providers spend more time with patients, this is so important right now.
Drop me a comment and let me know what your super power is when it comes to advocacy.
Blessings and Hope, Barby
