Sometimes I leave a consultation with a renewed mixture of awe and pity for family docs. The typical surgical consultation is very problem oriented. There's a problem, how can I fix it. But once in awhile one slips through that there is no surgical answer. Inevitably that particular discussion takes a bit of finagling to get to the actual root of the problem, which unfortunately seems to be the patient's own denial that they are, in fact, getting older. Their body is not what it once was, and believe it or not, they are not adjusting their diet appropriately, and therefore gaining weight. I can only assume that their family doc has tried explaining without success and a surgical consultation for the patient's assumed issue is a last resort. And so I find myself sitting face to face with a patient who exclaims to me, "but yesterday I only had two fruit pies from McDonalds." As if that exclamation should justify their position rather than simply explain the actual problem.
Despite the many faults of social media, there are also so many benefits that I am thankful for. As an example, I took a screenshot of this story I saw on Instagram the other day.
Both Meghan and Alyson were medical students that I worked with way back in the day. Due to our friendship on social media I have been able to follow them as they each worked their own ways through their separate surgical residencies. Both graduated this year and are on the cusp of starting fellowships. I am filled with pride to think that I played a role in the lives of these amazing women, amazing surgeons! Their exchange also exhibits an understanding and humor that only someone who has worn the same pair of shoes can have; there is a support and a strength that comes from such a unique community. It made me smile, real big.
Much Love.
(both Meghan and Alyson gave acknowledged permission for me to share their story.)
No comments:
Post a Comment