We found our patient unresponsive, in ventricular tachycardia, and suffering from a massive arterial bleed on the lower right extremity. After calling a code and starting the ABC's, we shocked him, intubated him and gave him a bolus of saline solution. Courageously, we worked for the next several minutes to stabilize our patient. Despite our efforts, we watched the monitor as he slipped into asystole, and we called it fifteen minutes later.
What happened next? We hit the "reset" button and let the next group have their turn.
I love being an almost-doctor. Coolness.
2.28.2006
2.08.2006
Here's to the Upcoming Holiday
Aren't they cute?
May your day be spent in quiet appreciation of those you love like these two adorable creatures.
As for me, I'll be spending the day listening to sappy music and learning how not to be such a heartbreaker.
Happy VDay!
May your day be spent in quiet appreciation of those you love like these two adorable creatures.
As for me, I'll be spending the day listening to sappy music and learning how not to be such a heartbreaker.
Happy VDay!
1.28.2006
A New Turn in the Road
Promethazine, atropine, meclizine, everywhere a "zine, zine." That's what spending a lovely day inside studying drugs will do to you.
So I've been thinking about this whole blogging thing lately, and what I've come to realize that I've deviated from my original intent for creating this blog. It was originally intended as a means as a replacement to the emails I used to send out to keep in touch while I was away learning to become a doctor. However, those who I used to write aren't really those who now read, and some wonderful meetings with old friends over the past few months made me realize that the lines of communication were never meant to be solely sustained through broadband and blogging.
In a nutshell, this blog is no longer for the purpose of learning what's going on in my life. Don't worry faithful blog readers; I'll still write when I have time about whatever may be on my mind or heart. It's in the best interest of all of us that this occur. I don't have to worry about finding time to keep you updated nor finding time to read your many blogs (that's what phones, emails, personal visits, etc are for). With that having been said, I leave you with some fond memories of the past year:
Speaking of roads...along I-40 right past Amarillo you can find numerous old Caddies buried in the dirt. Don't ask me why. Sain showed Cammie and I this roadside attraction when we stopped to visit him. Apparently there's not much else to do in Texas (just kidding Sain!). On our way out the following morning, we decided to leave our own signature on this Western Town attraction...I wonder if it's still there...
What can I say? It's the Grand Canyon, representative of a memorable 3 day camping trip. If you've never been on a roadtrip you should definitely consider doing so.
I think this is one of my favorite pictures taken while abroad. I can't thank God enough for having the opportunity to experience another culture, to"feel the pulse of the persecuted church," and to be among Christians who truly know what "family" means. Just a few dollars spent on a Pinata, candy, and some string, but it resulted in a priceless look of joy on this little girl's face. I'm constantly amazed at how God can take what little we have to offer and turn it into something great.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure-teaching the best way of preventing disease-handwashing. While I was in Guatemala, a preacher gave a sermon about how we consider the book of Acts to be completed yet we each have our own chapter to contribute if we believe God and the wonderful message of the "Good News." I'd like to think that this class was only a tiny part of my chapter, and I look forward to see what the following pages contain.
In all my experiences abroad, I seem to find myself on a random roadtrip. This was a stop at Castillo San Felipe near Rio Dulce before the infamous Shigella incident. Don't worry, the cannon wasn't loaded.
The CSC guys (and girls); where would I be without them? No semester is complete without a visit to Knoxville or some stop nearby. An October hike to Hen Wallow Falls led to Brad and Eric and giving their impersonation of "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon" while Justin did the "Smiling Hungry Bear." Good times. Good hikes.
One of the blessings of Johnson City: Mrs. Chara Watson. Not only did she make this cool scarf and hat for me for Christmas, she was kind enough to come stay with me at JCMC when they decided that Barium shakes would be a great thing for me to try while I was waiting for my IV to finish. I seriously don't know what I'd do without my Christian family.
Hanlin was this the 4th or 5th Pancake Pantry Reunion? A holdover from our life together at Governor's School way back in the day, Lauren, Hanlin, and I always make time to have breakfast at this famous sweet spot in Nashville. Unfortunately, the closest we got to seeing a country music star was this rather large guitar.
A beautiful wedding for a beautiful couple, Nancy and Manuel. They were the ones that invited me to come spend a memorable three weeks in Guatemala this past summer, and it was an honor to attend their wedding. It's rare to meet people with a passion for seeking and saving the lost and even rarer to meet a couple whose primary purpose in life is spurred by this passion. I know God will be using them in great ways in the coming years.
So there you have it. Michele Gourley 2005 in condensed annotated and illustrated form. Per usual, I leave you with another one of my favorite quotes:
"Health is based on happiness-from hugging and clowning around to finding joy in family and friends, satisfaction in work, and ecstasy in nature and the arts." -Patch Adams
So I've been thinking about this whole blogging thing lately, and what I've come to realize that I've deviated from my original intent for creating this blog. It was originally intended as a means as a replacement to the emails I used to send out to keep in touch while I was away learning to become a doctor. However, those who I used to write aren't really those who now read, and some wonderful meetings with old friends over the past few months made me realize that the lines of communication were never meant to be solely sustained through broadband and blogging.
In a nutshell, this blog is no longer for the purpose of learning what's going on in my life. Don't worry faithful blog readers; I'll still write when I have time about whatever may be on my mind or heart. It's in the best interest of all of us that this occur. I don't have to worry about finding time to keep you updated nor finding time to read your many blogs (that's what phones, emails, personal visits, etc are for). With that having been said, I leave you with some fond memories of the past year:
Speaking of roads...along I-40 right past Amarillo you can find numerous old Caddies buried in the dirt. Don't ask me why. Sain showed Cammie and I this roadside attraction when we stopped to visit him. Apparently there's not much else to do in Texas (just kidding Sain!). On our way out the following morning, we decided to leave our own signature on this Western Town attraction...I wonder if it's still there...
What can I say? It's the Grand Canyon, representative of a memorable 3 day camping trip. If you've never been on a roadtrip you should definitely consider doing so.
I think this is one of my favorite pictures taken while abroad. I can't thank God enough for having the opportunity to experience another culture, to"feel the pulse of the persecuted church," and to be among Christians who truly know what "family" means. Just a few dollars spent on a Pinata, candy, and some string, but it resulted in a priceless look of joy on this little girl's face. I'm constantly amazed at how God can take what little we have to offer and turn it into something great.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure-teaching the best way of preventing disease-handwashing. While I was in Guatemala, a preacher gave a sermon about how we consider the book of Acts to be completed yet we each have our own chapter to contribute if we believe God and the wonderful message of the "Good News." I'd like to think that this class was only a tiny part of my chapter, and I look forward to see what the following pages contain.
In all my experiences abroad, I seem to find myself on a random roadtrip. This was a stop at Castillo San Felipe near Rio Dulce before the infamous Shigella incident. Don't worry, the cannon wasn't loaded.
The CSC guys (and girls); where would I be without them? No semester is complete without a visit to Knoxville or some stop nearby. An October hike to Hen Wallow Falls led to Brad and Eric and giving their impersonation of "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon" while Justin did the "Smiling Hungry Bear." Good times. Good hikes.
One of the blessings of Johnson City: Mrs. Chara Watson. Not only did she make this cool scarf and hat for me for Christmas, she was kind enough to come stay with me at JCMC when they decided that Barium shakes would be a great thing for me to try while I was waiting for my IV to finish. I seriously don't know what I'd do without my Christian family.
Hanlin was this the 4th or 5th Pancake Pantry Reunion? A holdover from our life together at Governor's School way back in the day, Lauren, Hanlin, and I always make time to have breakfast at this famous sweet spot in Nashville. Unfortunately, the closest we got to seeing a country music star was this rather large guitar.
A beautiful wedding for a beautiful couple, Nancy and Manuel. They were the ones that invited me to come spend a memorable three weeks in Guatemala this past summer, and it was an honor to attend their wedding. It's rare to meet people with a passion for seeking and saving the lost and even rarer to meet a couple whose primary purpose in life is spurred by this passion. I know God will be using them in great ways in the coming years.
So there you have it. Michele Gourley 2005 in condensed annotated and illustrated form. Per usual, I leave you with another one of my favorite quotes:
"Health is based on happiness-from hugging and clowning around to finding joy in family and friends, satisfaction in work, and ecstasy in nature and the arts." -Patch Adams
1.17.2006
Reason #57...
...why Quillen is the greatest kept secret in medical schools: all-expense paid trips to conferences in cool places like San Diego. Unfortunately, the trip started off a little rough, though I should have expected that for the following reasons:
1. It was Friday the 13th
2.I was attending a medical missions conference (see example)
3. I was flying Delta (which bears the moniker "Don't Ever Leave the Airport")
Bad weather caused us to miss our flight from Atlanta to San Diego. There was another flight leaving later, but it was overbooked. Our trusted travel guru classmate Ryan tried to use his "Medallion" status to pull some strings and called hotels.com to arrange accomadations for the night, but it was to no avail. There were no more flights out and no available rooms in Atlanta. We were going to just have to spend the night in the Atlanta airport.
Looking way too happy for preparing for a stay in our "comfy" beds
1. It was Friday the 13th
2.I was attending a medical missions conference (see example)
3. I was flying Delta (which bears the moniker "Don't Ever Leave the Airport")
Bad weather caused us to miss our flight from Atlanta to San Diego. There was another flight leaving later, but it was overbooked. Our trusted travel guru classmate Ryan tried to use his "Medallion" status to pull some strings and called hotels.com to arrange accomadations for the night, but it was to no avail. There were no more flights out and no available rooms in Atlanta. We were going to just have to spend the night in the Atlanta airport.
Looking way too happy for preparing for a stay in our "comfy" beds
We scavenged the airport for a good place to sleep and found some non-armrest chairs in the international terminal. It actually wouldn't have been too bad except for the wonderful pre-set recording that woke us up every 20 minutes or so to remind us to keep an eye on our luggage at all times and to not accept baggage from strangers. Bleary-eyed and showerless we caught the next flight out at 8:30 and arrived in sunny San Diego around the middle of the morning.
Though we missed the first half of the conference, the rest of the day and Sunday were great. It was my first non-Christian medical missions conference, but it was still worthwhile. I learned, and find it amusingly ironic, that many of these people sacrifice months and years of their lives and money spending time learning the culture and language of the people whom they serve, tirelessly giving of their talents to help better the lives of others. On the other hand, many Christians don't learn the language and culture and throw away thousands of dollars and one week of their time to help better the lives of others and call it "sacrifice." Just something to think about but I'm not tackling such an issue here. Needless to say, it was a very informative weekend and it was nice to see that others share in the vision to provide healthcare to those who need it the most: the impoverished, the oppressed, the ones who don't have the fortune to live in this country.
Of course, no trip to San Diego is complete without a trip to the San Diego Zoo. The super-cool, soon-to-be-famous Matt (not Lee) Brown left his famous movie friends in LA to hang out with me, and we went to the zoo with my classmate Elizabeth. It was a good thing that he did come see me, or else the Zoo might be minus one panda. I really wanted to take the little brother of this guy home with me. Why can't Pandas be as numerous as dogs?
Can I take him home with me?
This is a picture of us sitting on almost an exact replica of myself. How thoughtful of the Zoo people to create such a stunning likeness of yours truly! (just kidding)
Matt and I atop a hungry hippo!
Looks like someone's lawn ornaments got loose!
Elizabeth and I explored some more of San Diego Sunday night and Monday morning before flying back to the South and our "exciting" lives as medical students. In short, the moral of the story is always take advantage of opportunities to travel to places you've never been, take time to visit old friends, don't fly on Friday the 13th, and always be prepared for the unexpected!!!
"As the traveler who has once been from home is wiser than he who has never left his own doorstep, so a knowledge of one other culture should sharpen our ability to scrutinize more steadily, to appreciate more lovingly, our own." -Margaret Mead
1.01.2006
Leave of Absence
The administrator of this blog regrets to inform its readers that there will be no additional postings until further notice due to deviation from the blog's original intent and an upcoming series of tests and hectic travel schedule in the coming months.
Any comments, questions, or concerns may be addressed to the blog administrator via email, phone, or in person. Thank you for your time and attention.
Any comments, questions, or concerns may be addressed to the blog administrator via email, phone, or in person. Thank you for your time and attention.
12.28.2005
I've Been Tagged
I've had writer's block the past few days and haven't been online much to update, but Critter just broke me of that by tagging me with the following: I'm supposed to write down 5 weird habits that I have and then tag 5 more people to do the same. Not to ruin the giving nature of the Christmas spirit I suppose I should try to fulfill Critter's wishes :o)
Let's see if this med. school nerd has any weird habits...hmm...
1. When I'm really stressed or in deep thought while studying, I like to play with my hair. I guess I think that toying with what comes out of my scalp might help me insert information into what lies under it.
2. I'm a self-professed car singer (when driving solo). I'm sure this has garnered many odd looks from other drivers, especially if the CD is one of my Spanish pop/rock ones.
3. I can't stand to have silverware touch the table at a restaurant. Spend 3 years of your life studying microbes, watch the busboys, and you'll understand.
4. Sometimes I do random Google searches when I can't sleep. Just pick two random words or phrases and see what comes up. You should try it sometime.
5. I have to eat my pancakes in the condition of syrupy-sogginess . I guess you could say I like pancakes with my syrup :o)
There you have it. 5 random facts about your med. school nerd friend that you probably never wanted to know. After much thought, I'm tagging those on my "Random Reads" list (which should probably be updated since it isn't so random anymore) Chara, Dave, Kent, Justin (since there are no rules about tag-backs), and Dan. Sorry guys!
I hope you are all enjoying the wonderful holiday season, and look for a more relevant update sometime in the near future...
Let's see if this med. school nerd has any weird habits...hmm...
1. When I'm really stressed or in deep thought while studying, I like to play with my hair. I guess I think that toying with what comes out of my scalp might help me insert information into what lies under it.
2. I'm a self-professed car singer (when driving solo). I'm sure this has garnered many odd looks from other drivers, especially if the CD is one of my Spanish pop/rock ones.
3. I can't stand to have silverware touch the table at a restaurant. Spend 3 years of your life studying microbes, watch the busboys, and you'll understand.
4. Sometimes I do random Google searches when I can't sleep. Just pick two random words or phrases and see what comes up. You should try it sometime.
5. I have to eat my pancakes in the condition of syrupy-sogginess . I guess you could say I like pancakes with my syrup :o)
There you have it. 5 random facts about your med. school nerd friend that you probably never wanted to know. After much thought, I'm tagging those on my "Random Reads" list (which should probably be updated since it isn't so random anymore) Chara, Dave, Kent, Justin (since there are no rules about tag-backs), and Dan. Sorry guys!
I hope you are all enjoying the wonderful holiday season, and look for a more relevant update sometime in the near future...
12.21.2005
The Most Wonderful Time of the Year?
It's so nice to be back at home. It's so nice to sleep in and not feel guilty for missing Dr.Brown's pathology class. It's so nice to have an "extra week" of break (thanks to friends' weddings). It's so nice to have a time to relax and enjoy the company of friends and family. It's so nice to be back in a church that's truly understanding and doesn't try to gloss over the realities of life.
The following was presented as part of a lesson last Sunday night, acknowledging that this time of year isn't necessarily wonderful, especially for those who have lost loved ones, gone through divorce, suffered the estrangement of close relative, lost their health or their job, etc.. Let's try and remember those people, and there are more of them out there than you might think, and show some extra kindess and compassion toward them this holiday season.
I hope you are enjoying the break, and if you're in the mid-TN area the next few weeks, stop by and say hello!
Beatitudes for Those who Comfort
by: Jackie Deems
Blessed are those who do not use tears to measure the true feelings of the bereaved.
Blessed are those who do not always have a quick "comforting" answer.
Blessed are those who do not make judgments on the bereaved's closeness to God by their reaction to the loss of their loved one.
Blessed are those who hear with their hearts and not with their minds.
Blessed are those who allow the bereaved enough time to heal.
Blessed are those who admit their uncomfortableness and put it aside to help the bereaved.
Blessed are those who do not give unwanted advice.
Blessed are those who continue to call, visit and reach out when the crowd has dwindled and the wounded are left standing alone.
Blessed are those who know the worth of each person as a unique individual and do not pretend that they can be replaced or forgotten.
Blessed are those who realize the fragility of bereavement and handle it with an understanding shoulder and a loving heart.
The following was presented as part of a lesson last Sunday night, acknowledging that this time of year isn't necessarily wonderful, especially for those who have lost loved ones, gone through divorce, suffered the estrangement of close relative, lost their health or their job, etc.. Let's try and remember those people, and there are more of them out there than you might think, and show some extra kindess and compassion toward them this holiday season.
I hope you are enjoying the break, and if you're in the mid-TN area the next few weeks, stop by and say hello!
Beatitudes for Those who Comfort
by: Jackie Deems
Blessed are those who do not use tears to measure the true feelings of the bereaved.
Blessed are those who do not always have a quick "comforting" answer.
Blessed are those who do not make judgments on the bereaved's closeness to God by their reaction to the loss of their loved one.
Blessed are those who hear with their hearts and not with their minds.
Blessed are those who allow the bereaved enough time to heal.
Blessed are those who admit their uncomfortableness and put it aside to help the bereaved.
Blessed are those who do not give unwanted advice.
Blessed are those who continue to call, visit and reach out when the crowd has dwindled and the wounded are left standing alone.
Blessed are those who know the worth of each person as a unique individual and do not pretend that they can be replaced or forgotten.
Blessed are those who realize the fragility of bereavement and handle it with an understanding shoulder and a loving heart.
12.10.2005
Another Milestone
Me Entiende? The Changing Communication Paradigm in Healthcare
This picture represents the culmination of a year's worth of rural health interdisciplinary research and the collaborative efforts of medical, public health, and nursing students. We didn't save the world, but at least the Tri-Cities area is aware of the need to promote cultural competency in a healthcare setting and provide adequate interpretation services for those with Limited English Proficiency (Title VI of 1964 and Executive Order 13166 of 2000). Who ever would have thought that I would get credit hours for eating Mexican food and speaking Spanish? (ok so it was a little more than that). The "joys" of being in Rural Track!
Anyways, Cow and Coffee's Mochaccino and gourmet brownie are currently taking effect in my system so it's back to studying while I still have the motivation. Chocolate and coffee: what can I say? It's finals week. One week until break!
This picture represents the culmination of a year's worth of rural health interdisciplinary research and the collaborative efforts of medical, public health, and nursing students. We didn't save the world, but at least the Tri-Cities area is aware of the need to promote cultural competency in a healthcare setting and provide adequate interpretation services for those with Limited English Proficiency (Title VI of 1964 and Executive Order 13166 of 2000). Who ever would have thought that I would get credit hours for eating Mexican food and speaking Spanish? (ok so it was a little more than that). The "joys" of being in Rural Track!
Anyways, Cow and Coffee's Mochaccino and gourmet brownie are currently taking effect in my system so it's back to studying while I still have the motivation. Chocolate and coffee: what can I say? It's finals week. One week until break!
12.05.2005
Russian Christmas Music
There's nothing like studying neuropathology pictures while listening to Russian Christmas Music. I have to say, it's one of my favorite Christmas selections, perhaps because it stands apart from the conglomeration of naively happy jingles that ceasingly play on the local radio station. Perhaps I like it because of the incredible, substantial chime part (how many musical works have a "substantial" chime part) or the melancholy English horn solo (how many of you readers even know what an English horn is?) which should not be attempted on a standard oboe, speaking from experience.
That’s one of the things I miss most about pursuing a career in medicine: music. It was a hard decision to make my freshman year in college when I chose between a career in music or a career in medicine. The bottom line came down to the fact that a missionary doctor seemed to be in higher demand than a missionary percussionist or oboist (though I did get to use my musical talents once in Chichicastenango, Guatemala—my audience was not impressed). I hope I made the right choice. Some people need their coffee and cigarettes, others their weekly happy hours, and still others their music. It’s no surprise that when I arrived home after my exam, tired and in a very “Grinchy/Bah-humbug” mood, that I pulled off the cover of my marimba. I picked up those four wooden, yarn-covered sticks for the first time in weeks, and soon all the previous days’ stresses floated away in the form of diminished chords, arpeggios, and the strange permutations typical to modern marimba music.
Back to Russian Christmas Music…I suppose the fact that it’s one of my favorite Christmas songs also represents the fact that my favorite things about Christmas don’t align with those of the mass public. Though I enjoy the shopping and the festivities, I don’t await Santa wide-eyed and expectant like I did as a child. Even though some may consider me a “poor medical student,” I currently have more wealth and assets at my disposal than ninety percent of the world will ever have in their lifetime. No, it’s not about the gifts anymore; it’s about the people. One of my favorite things about Christmas is the opportunity to see old friends and family. It’s the one time of year when everyone takes time from their busy schedules to return to that place which they call “home.”
So that’s my post-test ramble. Grab yourself a copy of a holiday CD with Russian Christmas Music. Better yet, support your local musicians by attending an upcoming concert. I hope you’re finding yourself enjoying the “Most Wonderful Time of the Year” and maybe I’ll see you over the break!
That’s one of the things I miss most about pursuing a career in medicine: music. It was a hard decision to make my freshman year in college when I chose between a career in music or a career in medicine. The bottom line came down to the fact that a missionary doctor seemed to be in higher demand than a missionary percussionist or oboist (though I did get to use my musical talents once in Chichicastenango, Guatemala—my audience was not impressed). I hope I made the right choice. Some people need their coffee and cigarettes, others their weekly happy hours, and still others their music. It’s no surprise that when I arrived home after my exam, tired and in a very “Grinchy/Bah-humbug” mood, that I pulled off the cover of my marimba. I picked up those four wooden, yarn-covered sticks for the first time in weeks, and soon all the previous days’ stresses floated away in the form of diminished chords, arpeggios, and the strange permutations typical to modern marimba music.
Back to Russian Christmas Music…I suppose the fact that it’s one of my favorite Christmas songs also represents the fact that my favorite things about Christmas don’t align with those of the mass public. Though I enjoy the shopping and the festivities, I don’t await Santa wide-eyed and expectant like I did as a child. Even though some may consider me a “poor medical student,” I currently have more wealth and assets at my disposal than ninety percent of the world will ever have in their lifetime. No, it’s not about the gifts anymore; it’s about the people. One of my favorite things about Christmas is the opportunity to see old friends and family. It’s the one time of year when everyone takes time from their busy schedules to return to that place which they call “home.”
So that’s my post-test ramble. Grab yourself a copy of a holiday CD with Russian Christmas Music. Better yet, support your local musicians by attending an upcoming concert. I hope you’re finding yourself enjoying the “Most Wonderful Time of the Year” and maybe I’ll see you over the break!
11.27.2005
A Re-Post
I can't believe it's been almost a year since I ended the first semester of the beginning of the rest of my life. I can't believe it's been over a year since I began this crazy wonderous journey of exploration of the human body. I still don't understand it. I don't think I ever will. If anything, I've just learned to accept and appreciate that which our Creator has given us. The following is a re-post from last December:
Two Lives (an ode to Frank)
by Andrew J. Lipman
Sometimes we wanted to know your name, but we gave you one.
I guess that means that you almost had two identities, really two lives:
One with your family, the other with your students.
Many will want to speak about your tremendous gift--and it is.
Others will want to extol the virtues of studying the human body.
I want to share with you some of my transgressions.
I would be lying if I said I always came to class...
Lying if I said at all times I kept you covered to protect your dignity...
Remiss if I did not mention that you made me nervous sometimes,
especially at the beginning of our relationship...
Did I sometimes fail to respect you as much as I should have? yes...
Was I ever angry with you? yes... Sometimes you hid things from me.
My teachers call that missing points on tests.
I call it not paying attention to you.
But, despite these transgressions, you won.
You did what you set out to do when you gave me your body.
William Carlos Williams said that
"in surgery, man sees what God never meant him to see."
His point is that very few of us have such a privilege.
I think it's the same with anatomy. Now, I can't go back.
I will always know what a human heart looks like. It's almost reflexive:
someone says an anatomic term and I can close my eyes and see it
--in fact, I see yours.
But I guess I'm most amazed by your total trust in strangers.
There are so few examples of this trust to guide us anymore.
I think it would be presumptuous to think you trusted me, personally, because I could have been anyone.
Instead, you gave completely of yourself to all,
in hopes of teaching us a lesson about trust.
You have set a precedent with me.
I've had my first intense relationship with a patient.
And that was you.
It's been a rough weekend and promises to be an even rougher week. I suppose I shouldn't complain; I have too much for which to be thankful. I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving weekend, and I look forward to reading about your experiences...after my Path exam next Monday. Until then--it's "All You Ever Wanted to Know About What's Wrong with Your Mind and Then Some" for me. Hasta lunes!
Two Lives (an ode to Frank)
by Andrew J. Lipman
Sometimes we wanted to know your name, but we gave you one.
I guess that means that you almost had two identities, really two lives:
One with your family, the other with your students.
Many will want to speak about your tremendous gift--and it is.
Others will want to extol the virtues of studying the human body.
I want to share with you some of my transgressions.
I would be lying if I said I always came to class...
Lying if I said at all times I kept you covered to protect your dignity...
Remiss if I did not mention that you made me nervous sometimes,
especially at the beginning of our relationship...
Did I sometimes fail to respect you as much as I should have? yes...
Was I ever angry with you? yes... Sometimes you hid things from me.
My teachers call that missing points on tests.
I call it not paying attention to you.
But, despite these transgressions, you won.
You did what you set out to do when you gave me your body.
William Carlos Williams said that
"in surgery, man sees what God never meant him to see."
His point is that very few of us have such a privilege.
I think it's the same with anatomy. Now, I can't go back.
I will always know what a human heart looks like. It's almost reflexive:
someone says an anatomic term and I can close my eyes and see it
--in fact, I see yours.
But I guess I'm most amazed by your total trust in strangers.
There are so few examples of this trust to guide us anymore.
I think it would be presumptuous to think you trusted me, personally, because I could have been anyone.
Instead, you gave completely of yourself to all,
in hopes of teaching us a lesson about trust.
You have set a precedent with me.
I've had my first intense relationship with a patient.
And that was you.
It's been a rough weekend and promises to be an even rougher week. I suppose I shouldn't complain; I have too much for which to be thankful. I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving weekend, and I look forward to reading about your experiences...after my Path exam next Monday. Until then--it's "All You Ever Wanted to Know About What's Wrong with Your Mind and Then Some" for me. Hasta lunes!
11.22.2005
Fun Things to Do With Food
In honor of the annual holiday of gluttony...I mean Thanksgiving...here's some fun easy recipes to impress your friends and family. They all have a common theme. Props go out to girls' night post-exam potlucks and Kraft's seasonal Food and Family magazine for inspiration. Buen provecho and bon apetit!
Stuffing Balls
1lb ground pork
1 6 oz package stuffing mix
3/4 cup cranberry sauce
1 egg
1/4 c melted butter
Preheat oven to 325. Brown meat and drain. Combine with stuffing mix. Sitr in cranberry sauce, egg and 1 c. water. Shape mixture into 16 balls and brush with melted butter Bake 20 minutes.
November Compote
3 small, sweet apples peeled and chopped into small pieces
1 c. cranberries chopped (be careful--they squish!!)
1/2 c. raisins
1 tbsp. flour
1/4 c. brown sugar packed
1/2 c. apple juice
Preheat oven to 375. Grease 1.5 quart baking dish. In a bowl combine cranberries, apples, and raisins. Add flour and sugar and mix well. Place in baking dish and add apple juice. Cover and bake for 35 minutes, stirring once. Serve as a side, over ham, or eat the leftovers with yogurt for a yummy breakfast treat!
"Save a Turkey Eat a Chicken" Recipe
6 chicken breasts
1 8oz can of cranberry sauce
1/4 c. corn syrup
2 tbsps lemon juice
2 tsbps melted butter
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
Either heat grill or preheat oven to 350. Season chicken with salt and pepper to taste. make sauce by combing remaining ingredients. Grill chicken pieces for 25-40 minutes, adding sauce during last 15 minutes of cooking or cook chicken in the oven, basting with sauce during the last 15-20 minutes.
The author takes no responsibility for the quality of possible future cooking attempts by her readers nor for cooking-related accidents. Happy Cooking!
Stuffing Balls
1lb ground pork
1 6 oz package stuffing mix
3/4 cup cranberry sauce
1 egg
1/4 c melted butter
Preheat oven to 325. Brown meat and drain. Combine with stuffing mix. Sitr in cranberry sauce, egg and 1 c. water. Shape mixture into 16 balls and brush with melted butter Bake 20 minutes.
November Compote
3 small, sweet apples peeled and chopped into small pieces
1 c. cranberries chopped (be careful--they squish!!)
1/2 c. raisins
1 tbsp. flour
1/4 c. brown sugar packed
1/2 c. apple juice
Preheat oven to 375. Grease 1.5 quart baking dish. In a bowl combine cranberries, apples, and raisins. Add flour and sugar and mix well. Place in baking dish and add apple juice. Cover and bake for 35 minutes, stirring once. Serve as a side, over ham, or eat the leftovers with yogurt for a yummy breakfast treat!
"Save a Turkey Eat a Chicken" Recipe
6 chicken breasts
1 8oz can of cranberry sauce
1/4 c. corn syrup
2 tbsps lemon juice
2 tsbps melted butter
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
Either heat grill or preheat oven to 350. Season chicken with salt and pepper to taste. make sauce by combing remaining ingredients. Grill chicken pieces for 25-40 minutes, adding sauce during last 15 minutes of cooking or cook chicken in the oven, basting with sauce during the last 15-20 minutes.
The author takes no responsibility for the quality of possible future cooking attempts by her readers nor for cooking-related accidents. Happy Cooking!
11.19.2005
Feliz Dia del Chompipe!
Or in other words...Happy Turkey Day!! (almost)
I've been thinking alot about the upcoming holiday: of all the memories of Grandma's famous sweet potato casserole, my aunt's "pink salad," making "pilgrim" and "indian" hats, and of drawing turkeys using the outline of your hand in elementary school. All this thinking has caused me to reflect back upon this past year and of all the things for which I have to be thankful. In our rat-race 24/7 society, we often find ourselves complaining of what we don't have and neglect spending time to consider that which we do have. At the risk of sounding sappy and trite, I bestow upon you the honor of reading my "Things for Which I'm Thankful" list (in typical Michele stream-of-consciousness order)
1. For two of the most wonderful parents in the world who didn't always give me what I wanted but gave me what I needed, who taught me what was important in life, and who have always supported me.
2. For the opportunity to study such a masterfully-designed, wonderfully-created being: the human body.
3. For all the opportunities I've had and experienced as a result of #2.
4. For modalities of expression: art, music, literature, photography, dance, laughter, tears, language, nature, and for the ability to appreciate these.
5. For autumn leaves on the VA campus and "10 minute break" walks with classmates
6. For 3 awesome study partners who make Micro fun with their crazy skits and "interpretive dances" of Spirochetes, macrophage responses to my favorite Guatemalan guest Shigella, etc.. (you'd have to be a med school nerd to understand)
7. For girls' nights and "try a new recipe" potlucks
8. For my sisters in Christ who always help me in dessert decisions (order both and split them) and for much more.
9. For my "Lois" (Louise), big brothers and sisters, and all the rest of my church family here
10. For having the opportunity to travel abroad and realize that though we may be from different backgrounds, speak different languages, and come from different cultures, we are all one in Christ.
11. For the people in #10 who have been such a blessing to me through their example, and for opening their hearts, homes, and lives to me.
12. To all those in other countries telling of the wonderful news of Christ
13. For having 66 books and countless verses to read of God's unending love and compassion for us.
14. For being able to meet with my classmates twice a month to pray
15. For the opportunity to reach out to the Hispanic community
16. For email and instant messenger (Someone once told me that God created the internet for missionaries. I don't know if that's true or not but it sure makes communication easier)
17. For quiet moments
18. For holidays free from studying
19. For trials and struggles that bring us to our knees and put things back into perspective
20. For friends and family and the blessed realization that "no man is an island"
21. For fuzzy kitties and snuffly, velvet-nosed horses
22. For "creamy nutmeg" scented candles
23. For waking up to see an unexpected dusting of white on the ground
24. For tulips and spring flowers and for changing seasons
25. For not having to watch my favorite football team lose to Vandy today :^P
That's all for now. Stay tuned for "Quick and Easy Thanksgiving Recipes to Impress Your Friends and Family" aka "some fun things to do with food." Speaking of...if anyone has any great dessert recipes, they would certainly be appreciated. I just found out that the powers-that-be of Thanksgiving dinner have assigned me to making dessert. Slice and bake cookies anyone?
I've been thinking alot about the upcoming holiday: of all the memories of Grandma's famous sweet potato casserole, my aunt's "pink salad," making "pilgrim" and "indian" hats, and of drawing turkeys using the outline of your hand in elementary school. All this thinking has caused me to reflect back upon this past year and of all the things for which I have to be thankful. In our rat-race 24/7 society, we often find ourselves complaining of what we don't have and neglect spending time to consider that which we do have. At the risk of sounding sappy and trite, I bestow upon you the honor of reading my "Things for Which I'm Thankful" list (in typical Michele stream-of-consciousness order)
1. For two of the most wonderful parents in the world who didn't always give me what I wanted but gave me what I needed, who taught me what was important in life, and who have always supported me.
2. For the opportunity to study such a masterfully-designed, wonderfully-created being: the human body.
3. For all the opportunities I've had and experienced as a result of #2.
4. For modalities of expression: art, music, literature, photography, dance, laughter, tears, language, nature, and for the ability to appreciate these.
5. For autumn leaves on the VA campus and "10 minute break" walks with classmates
6. For 3 awesome study partners who make Micro fun with their crazy skits and "interpretive dances" of Spirochetes, macrophage responses to my favorite Guatemalan guest Shigella, etc.. (you'd have to be a med school nerd to understand)
7. For girls' nights and "try a new recipe" potlucks
8. For my sisters in Christ who always help me in dessert decisions (order both and split them) and for much more.
9. For my "Lois" (Louise), big brothers and sisters, and all the rest of my church family here
10. For having the opportunity to travel abroad and realize that though we may be from different backgrounds, speak different languages, and come from different cultures, we are all one in Christ.
11. For the people in #10 who have been such a blessing to me through their example, and for opening their hearts, homes, and lives to me.
12. To all those in other countries telling of the wonderful news of Christ
13. For having 66 books and countless verses to read of God's unending love and compassion for us.
14. For being able to meet with my classmates twice a month to pray
15. For the opportunity to reach out to the Hispanic community
16. For email and instant messenger (Someone once told me that God created the internet for missionaries. I don't know if that's true or not but it sure makes communication easier)
17. For quiet moments
18. For holidays free from studying
19. For trials and struggles that bring us to our knees and put things back into perspective
20. For friends and family and the blessed realization that "no man is an island"
21. For fuzzy kitties and snuffly, velvet-nosed horses
22. For "creamy nutmeg" scented candles
23. For waking up to see an unexpected dusting of white on the ground
24. For tulips and spring flowers and for changing seasons
25. For not having to watch my favorite football team lose to Vandy today :^P
That's all for now. Stay tuned for "Quick and Easy Thanksgiving Recipes to Impress Your Friends and Family" aka "some fun things to do with food." Speaking of...if anyone has any great dessert recipes, they would certainly be appreciated. I just found out that the powers-that-be of Thanksgiving dinner have assigned me to making dessert. Slice and bake cookies anyone?
11.17.2005
Sometimes Ignorance is Bliss
I thought I'd share a humorous anecdote that happened to me this week. :o)
The amount of knowledge I've accumulated over the past semester alone, not to mention the past year and a half, is astounding. My fellow classmates and I have literally assimilated hundreds of pages of medical facts into the small confines of our brains. Unfortunately, this massive among of knowledge combined with my creative imagination can lead to some interesting situations.
Sunday morning I was rushing around the apartment trying to get ready for church when I noticed a small puddle of orange-colored liquid resting on my countertop. Running late, I didn't worry too much about it and headed out the door, telling myself that I would clean it up when I returned that evening from studying and church. The day passed ,and I forgot all about the small orange puddle. That night as I was looking through the cabinet to see what I could make to take for Monday's lunch, I noticed the puddle had increased in size. My gaze centered on the cabinet above the orange goo. Drops. Big drops of orange liquid were hanging from the bottom of the cabinet. I quickly opened the door and beheld the site of two large cans of Mandarin oranges, damaged, and dripping orange liquid. Any normal person would have thought, I guess I should probably throw those cans away since they're spoiled. Being the nerd that I am and having spent half the afternoon studying Micro, my first thought was, Clostridium botulinum, the most potent neurotoxin and frequent contaminant of spoiled cans of food. Our professors had mentioned that we should avoid bulging cans because they probably contained the toxin of this harmful bacteria. However, no one had ever mentioned what to do if the bulging cans sprung a leak, potentially contaminating your entire kitchen with Clostridium botulinum. I immediately threw the cans in a bag which was subsequently placed in the dumpster outside. But what to do with the gooey, orange mess that had spread all over the cabinet shelf and on to the counter below? And what about the other cans in my cabinet that now sat in a puddle of orange goo? I could just envision the following day's headline in the local paper: "Medical student remains in serious condition after ingesting foodstuffs that had been accidently contaminated with C. botulinum." I had to do something.
Being the resourceful person that I am, I decided to look in the phone book. After some thought and realizing it probably wasn't necessary to call the fire department nor the FBI, I decided to call Poison Control. I knew I hadn't been poisoned, but there was a potential poison sitting in my kitchen so that should count, right? The poison control center didn't know what to do with my strange request. They had a plethora of information regarding those who had ingested C. botulinum toxin; however, they were helpless in recommending clean up procedures for a possible C. botulinum spill. They kindly referred me to the CDC's hotline. Feeling somewhat sheepish for calling the CDC since I wasn't reporting an outbreak of Ebola or bird-flu, I dialed the number. Of course, the CDC didn't know what to do with my request either so they referred me to their "information specialist" ie the person who can hopefully Google the request while in the meantime keeping the caller pacified. Our conversation went something like this:
"Hi, I have a somewhat odd question. I think I had a C. botulinum spill in my kitchen and I'm wondering what I need to do to clean it up."
"Ok, give me just a minute."
(Pause)
"So you said it was on your countertop? Do you know what botulism is and how it's spread?"
Do I know what botulism is and how it's spread? Are you kidding me? Of course I know what it is. It's only the result of being infected with the most potent neurotoxin known to man and only causes flaccid paralysis leading to death. - I thought. "Yes, I know what botulism is. That's why I am a little concerned."
(More holding)
"Ummm....Well, I'm sorry. I can't really help you. Maybe you could just put some Windex on it or something."
Not satisfied with her answer, I decided to do my own Googling which led me to the conclusion that bleach would probably be a good means to disinfect the toxic sludge on my countertop and shelves. After submersing the goo in full-strength bleach for a quarter of an hour, I was convinced that I had probably killed any Gram-positive critters filled with toxin.
The next day, wanting to assure myself that all was well, I asked one of my Micro professors about what one should do should one of those "bulging cans" bulge too far and leak its contents everywhere. She promptly and nonchalantly replied, "Ah...it's no big deal. Just pour some bleach on the stuff. Bleach kills everything."
So my Sunday night crisis actually turned out to be not that big of a deal. Sometimes it's better not to know all the details, but I suppose "all's well that ends well" as the old saying goes. At least I correctly answered all questions about C. botulinum on my Micro test today.
The amount of knowledge I've accumulated over the past semester alone, not to mention the past year and a half, is astounding. My fellow classmates and I have literally assimilated hundreds of pages of medical facts into the small confines of our brains. Unfortunately, this massive among of knowledge combined with my creative imagination can lead to some interesting situations.
Sunday morning I was rushing around the apartment trying to get ready for church when I noticed a small puddle of orange-colored liquid resting on my countertop. Running late, I didn't worry too much about it and headed out the door, telling myself that I would clean it up when I returned that evening from studying and church. The day passed ,and I forgot all about the small orange puddle. That night as I was looking through the cabinet to see what I could make to take for Monday's lunch, I noticed the puddle had increased in size. My gaze centered on the cabinet above the orange goo. Drops. Big drops of orange liquid were hanging from the bottom of the cabinet. I quickly opened the door and beheld the site of two large cans of Mandarin oranges, damaged, and dripping orange liquid. Any normal person would have thought, I guess I should probably throw those cans away since they're spoiled. Being the nerd that I am and having spent half the afternoon studying Micro, my first thought was, Clostridium botulinum, the most potent neurotoxin and frequent contaminant of spoiled cans of food. Our professors had mentioned that we should avoid bulging cans because they probably contained the toxin of this harmful bacteria. However, no one had ever mentioned what to do if the bulging cans sprung a leak, potentially contaminating your entire kitchen with Clostridium botulinum. I immediately threw the cans in a bag which was subsequently placed in the dumpster outside. But what to do with the gooey, orange mess that had spread all over the cabinet shelf and on to the counter below? And what about the other cans in my cabinet that now sat in a puddle of orange goo? I could just envision the following day's headline in the local paper: "Medical student remains in serious condition after ingesting foodstuffs that had been accidently contaminated with C. botulinum." I had to do something.
Being the resourceful person that I am, I decided to look in the phone book. After some thought and realizing it probably wasn't necessary to call the fire department nor the FBI, I decided to call Poison Control. I knew I hadn't been poisoned, but there was a potential poison sitting in my kitchen so that should count, right? The poison control center didn't know what to do with my strange request. They had a plethora of information regarding those who had ingested C. botulinum toxin; however, they were helpless in recommending clean up procedures for a possible C. botulinum spill. They kindly referred me to the CDC's hotline. Feeling somewhat sheepish for calling the CDC since I wasn't reporting an outbreak of Ebola or bird-flu, I dialed the number. Of course, the CDC didn't know what to do with my request either so they referred me to their "information specialist" ie the person who can hopefully Google the request while in the meantime keeping the caller pacified. Our conversation went something like this:
"Hi, I have a somewhat odd question. I think I had a C. botulinum spill in my kitchen and I'm wondering what I need to do to clean it up."
"Ok, give me just a minute."
(Pause)
"So you said it was on your countertop? Do you know what botulism is and how it's spread?"
Do I know what botulism is and how it's spread? Are you kidding me? Of course I know what it is. It's only the result of being infected with the most potent neurotoxin known to man and only causes flaccid paralysis leading to death. - I thought. "Yes, I know what botulism is. That's why I am a little concerned."
(More holding)
"Ummm....Well, I'm sorry. I can't really help you. Maybe you could just put some Windex on it or something."
Not satisfied with her answer, I decided to do my own Googling which led me to the conclusion that bleach would probably be a good means to disinfect the toxic sludge on my countertop and shelves. After submersing the goo in full-strength bleach for a quarter of an hour, I was convinced that I had probably killed any Gram-positive critters filled with toxin.
The next day, wanting to assure myself that all was well, I asked one of my Micro professors about what one should do should one of those "bulging cans" bulge too far and leak its contents everywhere. She promptly and nonchalantly replied, "Ah...it's no big deal. Just pour some bleach on the stuff. Bleach kills everything."
So my Sunday night crisis actually turned out to be not that big of a deal. Sometimes it's better not to know all the details, but I suppose "all's well that ends well" as the old saying goes. At least I correctly answered all questions about C. botulinum on my Micro test today.
11.13.2005
Quick Update
The site for www.abrahamsdream.com has been launched. Go read about Abraham, his dream, and what you can do to help this faithful, young man achieve his dream. Meanwhile, keep praying for all those out there trying to spread the light in this dark world.
"In our lifetime, wouldn't it be sad if we spent more time washing dishes or swatting flies or mowing the yard or watching television than praying for world missions?" -Dave Davidson
"In our lifetime, wouldn't it be sad if we spent more time washing dishes or swatting flies or mowing the yard or watching television than praying for world missions?" -Dave Davidson
11.11.2005
Favorite Quotes
(in no particular order)
"Perhaps travel cannot prevent bigotry, but by demonstrating that all peoples cry, laugh, eat, worry, and die, it can introduce the idea that if we try and understand each other, we may even become friends." -Maya Angelou
"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." -Mohandas Gandhi
"But nothing is more estimable than a physician who, having studied nature from his youth, knows the properties of the human body, the diseases which assail it, the remedies which will benefit it, exercises his art with caution, and pays equal attention to the rich and the poor." -Voltaire
"Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent." -Victor Hugo
"When people talk, listen completely. Most people never listen." -Ernest Hemingway
"Understanding, and action proceeding from understanding and guided by it, is one weapon against the world's bombardment, the one medicine, the one instrument by which liberty, health, and joy may be shaped . . . in the individual, and in the race." -James Agee
"I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in." -George Washington Carver
"I have but one passion: It is He, it is He alone. The world is the field and the field is the world; and henceforth that country shall be my home where I can be most used in winning souls for Christ." -Count Nicolaus Ludwig von Zinzendorf
"Perhaps travel cannot prevent bigotry, but by demonstrating that all peoples cry, laugh, eat, worry, and die, it can introduce the idea that if we try and understand each other, we may even become friends." -Maya Angelou
"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." -Mohandas Gandhi
"But nothing is more estimable than a physician who, having studied nature from his youth, knows the properties of the human body, the diseases which assail it, the remedies which will benefit it, exercises his art with caution, and pays equal attention to the rich and the poor." -Voltaire
"Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent." -Victor Hugo
"When people talk, listen completely. Most people never listen." -Ernest Hemingway
"Understanding, and action proceeding from understanding and guided by it, is one weapon against the world's bombardment, the one medicine, the one instrument by which liberty, health, and joy may be shaped . . . in the individual, and in the race." -James Agee
"I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in." -George Washington Carver
"I have but one passion: It is He, it is He alone. The world is the field and the field is the world; and henceforth that country shall be my home where I can be most used in winning souls for Christ." -Count Nicolaus Ludwig von Zinzendorf
11.07.2005
Abraham's Story
There are times when you meet someone and their life story inspires you in such a way that you have to share it with all that you know. Last night at the Towlan's monthly missions chat was one of those times:
It was a normal day for six year old Abraham who was out on the plains of Sudan with the other villagers tending cattle. Unfortunately, this would not be just an ordinary day; the civil war reached Abraham's village that day and Abraham and his fellow cattle tenders, 4-13years of age, began to run. Shoeless and shirtless they ran, and ran, and ran. They spent months living in the jungle, drinking liquid mud to quench their thirst and eating leaves to satisfy their hunger. More joined their numbers and some died along the way from starvation and exhaustion. Finally, 20,000 in number, the boys reached Ethiopia, hoping to find a place of refuge and freedom. The boys were divided up into groups of 1,000 and rationed food: 4 bowls each of corn and sorghum...per camp. If you were lucky you might get 5 kernels of corn per day.
Faced with a hopeless situation, nine year old Abraham acknowledged the grim reality that his death was imminent. Yet, all hope was not lost. It was during this time through the life-giving words of a sixteen-year old evangelist that he would discover bread that would never leave him hungry. During these times when he had nothing to eat he would cling to hope-filled verses, verses that gave him comfort and renewed strength. His situation improved and the next three years Abraham and the "Lost Boys" learned English by writing with sticks on the dirt floor at school. It was their first time ever to attend school. However, a political change sent the boys fleeing at gunpoint to Kenya and another long journey on foot. At one point, the boys reached a wide river. Abraham didn't know how to swim. Once again he faced his own mortality and told his best friend, "I must stay here. I can't swim." His friend replied, "Abraham, you can't give up. Remember your faith. Remember how God has taken care of you and that He will continue to do so. Take hold of my shoulder and kick your legs." With the sound of gunfire all around, Abraham took hold of his friend's shoulder and the two crossed the river to the shores of safety. Now around 16,000 in number, many dead due to gunfire, starvation, or drowning, Abraham and the fellow boys spent the next years of their lives in Kenya. Abraham finished primary school and high school. In 2001 he came to the United States. He is currently in college with the goal of becoming a doctor, a neurologist or cardiologist he told us, and returning to Sudan.
Abraham ended by telling us this: "Our God is an amazing God. He looks after His children and keeps them safe. Don't ever forget those comforting words He's given us. And don't forget to tell others. People have a lot of questions when they're dying and they need to have those questions answered before their die. I want to be a doctor so I can answer their questions and impact other's lives by telling them what God has done for me."
You can find out more about Abraham and the Lost Boys of Sudan at www.Abrahamsdream.com (the site is scheduled to be launched within the next week).
May we never confuse inconvenience with sacrifice or suffering, unfulfilled desires with hunger, or a good example as fulfilling our command to "Go and tell all the world" and share those wonderful, comforting words of a God who looks after everyone of His children, from silly, spoiled medical students to shirtless, shoeless boys in Sudan.
It was a normal day for six year old Abraham who was out on the plains of Sudan with the other villagers tending cattle. Unfortunately, this would not be just an ordinary day; the civil war reached Abraham's village that day and Abraham and his fellow cattle tenders, 4-13years of age, began to run. Shoeless and shirtless they ran, and ran, and ran. They spent months living in the jungle, drinking liquid mud to quench their thirst and eating leaves to satisfy their hunger. More joined their numbers and some died along the way from starvation and exhaustion. Finally, 20,000 in number, the boys reached Ethiopia, hoping to find a place of refuge and freedom. The boys were divided up into groups of 1,000 and rationed food: 4 bowls each of corn and sorghum...per camp. If you were lucky you might get 5 kernels of corn per day.
Faced with a hopeless situation, nine year old Abraham acknowledged the grim reality that his death was imminent. Yet, all hope was not lost. It was during this time through the life-giving words of a sixteen-year old evangelist that he would discover bread that would never leave him hungry. During these times when he had nothing to eat he would cling to hope-filled verses, verses that gave him comfort and renewed strength. His situation improved and the next three years Abraham and the "Lost Boys" learned English by writing with sticks on the dirt floor at school. It was their first time ever to attend school. However, a political change sent the boys fleeing at gunpoint to Kenya and another long journey on foot. At one point, the boys reached a wide river. Abraham didn't know how to swim. Once again he faced his own mortality and told his best friend, "I must stay here. I can't swim." His friend replied, "Abraham, you can't give up. Remember your faith. Remember how God has taken care of you and that He will continue to do so. Take hold of my shoulder and kick your legs." With the sound of gunfire all around, Abraham took hold of his friend's shoulder and the two crossed the river to the shores of safety. Now around 16,000 in number, many dead due to gunfire, starvation, or drowning, Abraham and the fellow boys spent the next years of their lives in Kenya. Abraham finished primary school and high school. In 2001 he came to the United States. He is currently in college with the goal of becoming a doctor, a neurologist or cardiologist he told us, and returning to Sudan.
Abraham ended by telling us this: "Our God is an amazing God. He looks after His children and keeps them safe. Don't ever forget those comforting words He's given us. And don't forget to tell others. People have a lot of questions when they're dying and they need to have those questions answered before their die. I want to be a doctor so I can answer their questions and impact other's lives by telling them what God has done for me."
You can find out more about Abraham and the Lost Boys of Sudan at www.Abrahamsdream.com (the site is scheduled to be launched within the next week).
May we never confuse inconvenience with sacrifice or suffering, unfulfilled desires with hunger, or a good example as fulfilling our command to "Go and tell all the world" and share those wonderful, comforting words of a God who looks after everyone of His children, from silly, spoiled medical students to shirtless, shoeless boys in Sudan.
10.31.2005
Treats
There's nothing like satisfying a hungry gastric container with delightful sugar-coated, carcinogen-containing delicacies from Quillen's First Annual Halloweenie Roast. It sure beats the typical brown-bag sandwich lunch that most of my comrades and I consume during the lunchtime hour.
The past few weeks have been a series of small "treats" for me as I've been wearing out I-81 and I-40 to see those dear to me in the form of pleasant hikes through the Smokies and HTI's semi-annual board meeting in Nashville. I will not be disappointed in the least when in heaven, I don't have to make such exhausting solitary drives to see everyone because we will all be in one place. I am truly grateful for those of you who took time out of your schedules so that I could spend time with you.
If you never have taken the opportunity to drive I-40 during autumn, you must put it on your "10 Things to Do Before I Die" list. The brilliance of the foilage is simply astounding. There's something about being outside that's good for the insides of man. I think if every family in the United States was required to spend one day outside in nature (real nature-not the pseudonature our city government creates in the form of baseball diamonds and glaring stadium lights), I think that the incidence of crime and violence would dramatically decrease. To observe such intricate design and beauty puts everything back into perspective and gives one time to reflect upon their purpose in being here amidst the grand scheme of life.
As the morning devotional Saturday, we were asked to reflect upon Luke 10:1-12 and select a word from the passage that caught our attention. I have been blessed with the opportunity the past few months to take a deeper look at Luke and the life of Christ through Beth Moore's study. The more I study about our Savior the more I am awe of him. I don't think people are turned away from being a Christian by Christ; rather, they are turned away by Christians bearing his name but not understanding what it means to live under that name. How could you not devote your life to someone who had unending compassion for the poor, the sick, the impoverished; deep wisdom to confront the intellectually elite and spiritually empty, unmeasured strength to stand in the face of great opposition, and unfathomable patience to bear with the infedelity of the faithful? How can anyone's life not have more than just a shallow relationship with such a person?
My word from the passage was "intended." We are never sent out somewhere where God hasn't already planned to go. I just ask your prayers as I consider this palette of seemingly unending opportunities presented before me and that he leads me where he intends to go and that we never hold such busy schedules that we fail to set aside time to meditate on the beauty of the life of Christ.
"A man should hear a little music, read a little poetry, and see a fine picture every day of his life, in order that worldly cares may not obliterate the sense of the beautiful which God has implanted in the human soul." -Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
The past few weeks have been a series of small "treats" for me as I've been wearing out I-81 and I-40 to see those dear to me in the form of pleasant hikes through the Smokies and HTI's semi-annual board meeting in Nashville. I will not be disappointed in the least when in heaven, I don't have to make such exhausting solitary drives to see everyone because we will all be in one place. I am truly grateful for those of you who took time out of your schedules so that I could spend time with you.
If you never have taken the opportunity to drive I-40 during autumn, you must put it on your "10 Things to Do Before I Die" list. The brilliance of the foilage is simply astounding. There's something about being outside that's good for the insides of man. I think if every family in the United States was required to spend one day outside in nature (real nature-not the pseudonature our city government creates in the form of baseball diamonds and glaring stadium lights), I think that the incidence of crime and violence would dramatically decrease. To observe such intricate design and beauty puts everything back into perspective and gives one time to reflect upon their purpose in being here amidst the grand scheme of life.
As the morning devotional Saturday, we were asked to reflect upon Luke 10:1-12 and select a word from the passage that caught our attention. I have been blessed with the opportunity the past few months to take a deeper look at Luke and the life of Christ through Beth Moore's study. The more I study about our Savior the more I am awe of him. I don't think people are turned away from being a Christian by Christ; rather, they are turned away by Christians bearing his name but not understanding what it means to live under that name. How could you not devote your life to someone who had unending compassion for the poor, the sick, the impoverished; deep wisdom to confront the intellectually elite and spiritually empty, unmeasured strength to stand in the face of great opposition, and unfathomable patience to bear with the infedelity of the faithful? How can anyone's life not have more than just a shallow relationship with such a person?
My word from the passage was "intended." We are never sent out somewhere where God hasn't already planned to go. I just ask your prayers as I consider this palette of seemingly unending opportunities presented before me and that he leads me where he intends to go and that we never hold such busy schedules that we fail to set aside time to meditate on the beauty of the life of Christ.
"A man should hear a little music, read a little poetry, and see a fine picture every day of his life, in order that worldly cares may not obliterate the sense of the beautiful which God has implanted in the human soul." -Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
10.21.2005
10.17.2005
Five Favorite Scents...
...from this past week that will never be marketed as candles.
Isn't it amazing how a smell can evoke a memory? The whiff of an odoriferous substance like bubble gum, the kind that came in the square package with the baseball player on the front, can instantly transport you back 20 years to your childhood and standing in line at the toy store. Or another example--freshly sharpened number two pencils and crayons and you're back in the classroom for your first day of school. The following are five of my favorite scents (in no particular order) from this past week:
1. Horse and Leather
I can't tell you how great it was to be "back in the saddle" again. I hadn't ridden since my wreck over two years ago, and I'd forgotten how wonderful it feels to be astride an animal twice your size barreling down (ok so maybe it was more like ambling down) a grassy field like you're the next messenger for the Pony Express. Thank goodness for classmates whose in-laws own horses near my parents' home :o)
2. Dried Leaves and Haybales
I love the first signs of autumn: the smell of freshly fallen leaves, pumpkins, hayrides, and hot apple cider. No fall break is complete without a trip to the Walden's Pumpkin Farm and the purchase of a few soon-to-be Jack-O-Lanterns. Anyone have any carving or recipe suggestions?
3. Corn Dogs and Funnel Cakes
Cammie and I decided to take another road trip. No, we didn't make it all the way to Vegas this time, just to the Webb School Art and Craft Fair in Bell Buckle, Tennessee. There's nothing like wandering around streets filled with the handiwork of local artisans. I wanted to give 3 adorable snowmen/women good homes but my med. school budget wouldn't allow it. Did I ever mention how cute snowmen can be?
4. Homemade Biscuits and Mashed Potatoes
What a wonderful feeling it is to come home to freshly-cooked meal, especially when you don't have to cook it. Spending time in the Emergency Department this past week has made me appreciate how blessed I am to have parents like mine. I think a large part of who we become depends upon our upbringing and the love and support our parents show us.
5. Unwashed-purchased Clothes
Have you ever noticed how all clothes seem to have a particular smell to them after purchasing them? I'm convinced that all department stores/clothing carriers secretly manufacture and use a fabric spray called "New Clothing Smell." With all this talk about the big "P" word going around school, I decided it was time to purchase some garments that better fit the definition of the big "P" word. Needless to say, I am currently banned from going to the mall or any distributor or seller of textiles and/or related materials.
The past week has been a nice respite from the daily grind of medical school. Unfortunately, the aforementioned scents will soon be replaced by the stale coffee and copy paper aroma of Stanton Gerber Hall. Only two more months until the next break!
Isn't it amazing how a smell can evoke a memory? The whiff of an odoriferous substance like bubble gum, the kind that came in the square package with the baseball player on the front, can instantly transport you back 20 years to your childhood and standing in line at the toy store. Or another example--freshly sharpened number two pencils and crayons and you're back in the classroom for your first day of school. The following are five of my favorite scents (in no particular order) from this past week:
1. Horse and Leather
I can't tell you how great it was to be "back in the saddle" again. I hadn't ridden since my wreck over two years ago, and I'd forgotten how wonderful it feels to be astride an animal twice your size barreling down (ok so maybe it was more like ambling down) a grassy field like you're the next messenger for the Pony Express. Thank goodness for classmates whose in-laws own horses near my parents' home :o)
2. Dried Leaves and Haybales
I love the first signs of autumn: the smell of freshly fallen leaves, pumpkins, hayrides, and hot apple cider. No fall break is complete without a trip to the Walden's Pumpkin Farm and the purchase of a few soon-to-be Jack-O-Lanterns. Anyone have any carving or recipe suggestions?
3. Corn Dogs and Funnel Cakes
Cammie and I decided to take another road trip. No, we didn't make it all the way to Vegas this time, just to the Webb School Art and Craft Fair in Bell Buckle, Tennessee. There's nothing like wandering around streets filled with the handiwork of local artisans. I wanted to give 3 adorable snowmen/women good homes but my med. school budget wouldn't allow it. Did I ever mention how cute snowmen can be?
4. Homemade Biscuits and Mashed Potatoes
What a wonderful feeling it is to come home to freshly-cooked meal, especially when you don't have to cook it. Spending time in the Emergency Department this past week has made me appreciate how blessed I am to have parents like mine. I think a large part of who we become depends upon our upbringing and the love and support our parents show us.
5. Unwashed-purchased Clothes
Have you ever noticed how all clothes seem to have a particular smell to them after purchasing them? I'm convinced that all department stores/clothing carriers secretly manufacture and use a fabric spray called "New Clothing Smell." With all this talk about the big "P" word going around school, I decided it was time to purchase some garments that better fit the definition of the big "P" word. Needless to say, I am currently banned from going to the mall or any distributor or seller of textiles and/or related materials.
The past week has been a nice respite from the daily grind of medical school. Unfortunately, the aforementioned scents will soon be replaced by the stale coffee and copy paper aroma of Stanton Gerber Hall. Only two more months until the next break!
10.10.2005
Coming to a Hospital Near You
After a juggling of schedule away from doing a preceptorship at Vanderbilt due to the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, I'm back at Smyrna's hospital. I'm in the emergency department all week, and so far it's been a blast. Nothing like spending a day with crushed appendages, myocardial infarctions, MVAs, mentally-unstable patients, and lots of blood (ok maybe not lots of blood). No, it's nothing like the hit show ER, but it's definitely exciting.
I'd write more, but medical students have no time, and this week is no different. I just ask for your prayers for the flood victims in Guatemala (why does it seem like those who have the least are prone to lose the most?) and for myself. Wednesday night is the unveiling of years of God's preparation of me, unbeknownst most of the time, as I present my future plans to the missions committee at church.
I hope you all are doing well, and I apologize for my lack of blog reading. I just don't have time. Drop me a line or a phone call and let me know you're still alive. If you're in Ktown next Monday I invite you to dine with me at the noontime hour. Cheers!!
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