Breast cancer exposed the lack of care I receive for Long COVID

When Heather Hogan learned in December 2024 that she had breast cancer, she was shocked. She had no family history of the disease and no symptoms. She was surprised to consider the possibility of a connection to her Long COVID, a condition she had been battling for years. Hogan had suffered from Long COVID, experiencing symptoms like fatigue and cognitive issues, and had sought numerous medical tests and specialists to no avail. But her cancer diagnosis forced her to confront the impact of Long COVID on her life in a new way.

With cancer, Hogan found a clear path forward in the medical system, following a well-established treatment plan. In contrast, her Long COVID had left her feeling uncertain about her own health and plagued by guilt over her perceived lack of control. However, cancer provided her with structure and a sense of purpose. Before her diagnosis, Hogan had struggled with the medical system, but cancer offered her a roadmap to wellness, complete with a planner and guidance on how to manage her care.

While Hogan did experience setbacks and challenges during her cancer journey, she was not dismissed or doubted by medical professionals. Her cancer was diagnosed early and was not aggressive, meaning she would not have to endure the same level of treatment as others. Hogan acknowledged that she was fortunate in both her cancer diagnosis and her Long COVID, which had not severely impacted her ability to work full-time and maintain her daily activities.

Overall, Hogan's experience with cancer taught her the importance of control and a clear path forward in managing her health. Although she faced difficulties with Long COVID, the structured nature of cancer treatment gave her a sense of purpose and helped her navigate the medical system with more confidence.