A SECOND OPINION

by Brenda Taliaferro

I am 47 years old, and have had diabetes 40 years. Though I don't have 20/20 vision, I can still read and drive a car. I keep busy--I have learned I can't take the time to feel sorry for myself with diabetes -- I have to stay very active.

In 1995, I stepped on a staple. I was told by several doctors that my foot would have to be amputated. They seemed in a hurry, and I wouldn't let them. I left the hospital, and headed straight for my podiatrist, who put me on a 12-month course of antibiotics and debridement, three times a week. I lifted weights, and (with my podiatrist's approval) started jogging daily.

My alternative to amputation worked. I got a "second opinion," I did the necessary things, and I won. I still have my foot. We need to use our minds, before we let the doctors rush us into an amputation. I made it clear I would do whatever was necessary to save my foot, if at all possible. I got my "second opinion" from my podiatrist.

I'm glad I spoke up. Amputation is very final.

From the Editor: Soliciting a "second opinion," from another medical professional, is a good idea in many cases. Where there is ambiguity, uncertainty, disagreement, or even complexity, an outside specialist can provide important input. Maybe there is an alternative to radical procedures such as amputation. Maybe there is not. Either way, you can be that much more certain the step you take is the right one. Go ahead and ask for a second opinion. It's your body.