Loading ...What would you do if you had cancer? Where would you turn to first? Would you go on the internet to find out more information on your condition?
According to the Pew Internet & American Life Project, e-patients with a chronic illness use online health resources to manage their illness, look up pertinent information before and after a doctor visit, as well as communicate with other patients in online support groups.
Jenn Michelle Pedini, former Disney performer and marketing professional and now mother of one, turned to the internet for answers after being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2008. After a six month battle with the cancer including 12 rounds of chemotherapy, Jenn Michelle was re-diagnosed with the illness and more aggressive treatments were scheduled for her.
With the recent outbreak of H1N1 virus, Jenn Michelle, who continues to battle the disease, turned to social media when her providers couldn’t help her find a vaccination. Having a H1N1 vaccination was a pre-requisite that Jenn Michelle needed prior to her stem cell transplant last fall.
“I was amazed that a hospital not affiliated with my care was willing to reach out and help,” said Pedini. “Bon Secours is the only health system that I’ve met and interacted with online.”
Bon Secours’ social media advocates picked up on Jenn Michelle’s request via Twitter in November 2009. Our social media advocates worked with our physician practices to find the right fit. Theresa Kimbrough, Practice Manager at Bon Secours Patterson Avenue Family Practice, jumped at the chance to help and was able to schedule Jenn Michelle within one day.
“The doctor’s office was ready for me as soon as I called to set up an appointment,” said Pedini.
Follow Jenn Michelle’s journey on her blog, www.bitsofmyself.com, or on Twitter at @BitsOfMyself. You can also connect with Bon Secours on Twitter at @BonSecoursRVA
Jenn Michelle has generously consented to share her story with us and our online community.
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