Welcome to Pasam
This morning started by checking on the patient from yesterday’s surgery. Although the wound was still in some pain, it looked very clean and intact. Instead of using a plastic tube to set the drainage canals within the sutures, Dr. Mas used a slice of a glove in two places. At first this seemed a little unorthodox, but this technique is used in many places where supplies are limited. The rest of the Friday was quiet until I saw one of my favorite patients come in. I have not asked his name, but he brings out inspiration in me every time he steps in the door. About five years ago he had a stroke in the left side of his brain and was not able to walk or do any daily activities. From going to physical therapy for about a year and a half, he is now able to walk 5 km a day and is talking more than he ever has. Alex and I were given the opportunity to use the exercise ball to work his legs and arms and the scene was unbelievable with him using his own muscle to kick the ball and being able to move his arm enough to get the ball rolling in the right direction. Before seeing his improvements, one would not imagine anyone in these conditions could recover from paralysis in one side of the body. I now see that with the care of others and some long dedicated hours, anything is possible. His face turning form a frown as a walks in, to a sparkling smile when he leaves is something no money can make happen. The radiance comes from the care and generosity of others. The will to never give up by not only him but all the doctors involved as well. This car and compassion must be institutes in every patient, making their individual wellbeing the most important job at the moment. I am very excited to see how he comes along in the weeks I am here, and will carry this faith in resiliency into future cases that look to be “impossible.”
The imPOSSIBLE
My favorite stray dog Shakespeare
Your comments yesterday and today demonstrate your consistently wise approach to “making things happen,” Tony. You look at the larger picture before judging what is before our limited perspective, and you see how (like in football) you use what is available—and always encourage. You have already made a couple “touchdowns” as you and Alex have brought real hope where humanly there was little. The smile you mention says it all. Did you see this “impossible” happening? http://time.com/3911435/mice-transplant-head-china/