What happens when a healthcare professional who has dedicated her life to helping others suddenly becomes the patient?

Dr. Efrat LaMandre, known as Dr. E, joins Dr. Kien Vuu (Dr. V) on the Thrive State Podcast for an honest conversation about being blindsided by stage four lung cancer, navigating the healthcare system, and learning to advocate for yourself.

After months of dismissing her own back pain, Dr. E received a diagnosis that changed her life. She shares how the experience reshaped her work as a nurse practitioner, her relationship with her family, and her understanding of what patients need most.

In this episode, you'll learn:
• Why healthcare professionals can minimize their own symptoms
• What medical gaslighting can feel like from the patient's perspective
• How to become the CEO of your own health and coordinate your care team
• Why well-meaning encouragement can sometimes feel like pressure
• How to make space for fear, uncertainty, and honest conversations
• How Dr. E approaches conventional and functional care as a patient
• Why connection, family, and presence matter when life changes unexpectedly

Listen to Dr. E's Medical Disruptor podcast on your favorite podcast platform.

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Want to work with me? Send me an email 💌 info@kienvuumd.com

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