November 4, 2011

  • On Saving Lives

    Before this last trip to Hong Kong, I had the privilege of saving a life.  It was the first time that it was someone I knew.

    Operating, thinking of their family, thinking of the things that went on in their lives, what they'd accomplished, what they cherished - it was an unusual feeling.  The person was younger than my dad and my mom... but close in age.  I couldn't help but to think of them, and what it might be like to operate on them.

    Trying to save lives - to save brains in people whom you don't know can be reduced to technical skills.  It's when it is directly emotionally linked to oneself that it becomes progressively harder.

    Thank God (and I did pray), that the patient did very well.  It strikes home.  I love my parents dearly... and hope I can help the loved ones of many others...