Preparing Sign Language Interpreters

Yesterday, I role-played as a Deaf patient in a specific medical situation with a doctor and an interpreter.  This was part of a Medical Interpreting Immersion program offered by the CATIE (https://www2.stkate.edu/catie-center/medical-interpreting-immersion).  I got assigned to do breast cancer.  Ugh.  I really wanted to do something else... I just wanted to get AWAY from cancer for a bit-  give me diabetes, colonoscopy, or acid reflux.  The universe works in funny ways.  It turned out to be an educational experience for all.  I worked with five different groups.  Five different mock doctors and five different mock interpreters.  After roleplaying for about 15 minutes, we had 15 minutes to share feedback. 

I realized from this experience that finding an oncologist is just like finding a friend you are comfortable with.  There's that instantaneous connection. There are doctors who take the time to explain everything.  There are doctors who just don't.  We choose who we want to work with.  I felt connected with some mock doctors but not so with others.  This experience validated my feelings about why I couldn't fully connect with Dr. Diaz-Montes.  She's more clinical and wants to get rid of the cancer without looking me as a whole person.  Dr. Jewell does.  I have had to drag things out of Dr. Diaz-Montes.  I thrive on information.  I thrive on knowing what's going on in my body.  I WANT to understand this cancer and how I am going to fight this.  I loved mock doctors who explained in details about the breast cancer and treatment options.  Some patients may not want the level of detail I desire. 

As a mock Deaf patient, I found myself remembering my raw emotions at the initial oncologist appointments.  I reenacted those.  For some reason, it was like taking a step outside myself and seeing what I was feeling before.  I asked reactive questions that revealed my fear and uncertainty.  I talked about the importance of feeling like a woman when I learn that I may need to lose one breast.  A male doctor said, "I understand."  I reacted, "You don't understand! You're a man!"  After the mock situation was over, he walked out upset.  I learned from a participant that his wife died of breast cancer.  I remember thinking and wondering why he, as a mock doctor, knew so much about breast cancer and treatment.  Cancer is real.  It happens to too many people.  Too many, IMHO.

I also found myself asking the harder questions which was telling of my ongoing research about cancer and treatment.  I asked about whether I would need external or internal radiation for my breast cancer.  I found some interpreters did not understand this question.  I also learn that some did not know that there were different types of chemotherapy- intravenously, via port, or orally.  I encouraged them to research more so they are better prepared for oncology appointments.  One mock interpreter said she wanted to hug me but was not certain.  I said that interpreters who show empathy are the ones I respect.  Hugs are not expected as oncologists typically take the lead on the 'bedside manner'.  I have had oncologists hug me and it is a soothing feeling.  It is for me.  It may not work for other patients.  

One group asked about using the sign for treatment.  She did not want to use the signed English version (see video below):

The mock interpreter picked this sign (see video below): 

I said that two months ago, I would have been totally fine with this sign.  BUT now that I have cancer for real, I struggle with this sign (refer to this post: http://naomicancerjourney.blogspot.com/2015/03/cured-or-not.html). 

I suggested the alternative sign for treatment (see video below) because in reality, cancer patients ultimately decide what treatment option(s) they want to do. 

                                    

Thank you, CATIE, for this experience.  The universe knew the interpreters and I needed it.