So I went for a check up with my neurosurgeon today. My neurosurgeon is the BEST neurosurgeon in the area!! He has a reputation for being a really mean and horrible doctor. He is known for having a "horrible" bed side matter.
WEELLLLL..... I guess I didn't get the memo. (LOL!!) All my doctors are great but I like him the most because I get the chance to see how much he will laugh and smile with me. He has a really laid back, calm demeanor that sometimes comes off as "distant" but he is a really great guy. With that being said, here is the card that he wrote to me after my surgery:
"I have been impressed by the dignity and grace you have shown in a very difficult time. Your healthcare team (physicians, nurses, etc) is expected to administer excellent and compassionate care. The patient's response and attitude can make this challenging- or in your care- a joy and desire to go the extra mile. I have not written a note like this before. I think you should understand the positive effect you have on the people around you. If good wishes could make you well.... I don't know what the future holds for you (or me). Some times in medicine we minimize the hope since it seems unlikely. The book is about the unexpected - the spectacular. I hope you make the next edition. Your family and support team are also a joy"
Every time I go to the office, I have a great time with the staff and my appointment. (Granted I have to see a neurosurgeon because I had problems with my spine but it doesn't feel that way.) Today, it is really nice out so I asked for him to have the appointment outside just so we all could get a little vitamin D, it was ignored but he laughed at me. I love the fact that every time I leave the office that I put smile on their faces'. I can't wait until the next time I visit in 3 months.
FYI: I've been cleared to run, swim, and bike!! Plus, me and doc plan to run the Disney Marathon in Florida :-)
Hi Denise,
ReplyDeleteI am at work, at my desk, with tears in eyes (praying that the folks at work don't notice) because 1) I am so sorry that I didn't know about your diagnosis with cancer, 2) So proud of you, your outlook on life, and your strength, and 3) Disappointed in myself for making such a huge deal about things that now seem trivial. You have been a dear friend of mine for many years and the fact that we have continued to keep in contact over the years is a testament to that (how many folks from middle/high school do you keep up with?). You've crossed my mind several times over the past few months and I feel terrible for not picking up the phone to see how you've been (as recently as this past weekend when I drove past your old neighborhood and thought about you). But I wanted to let you know that I truly admire you for facing this challenge with so much strength, grace, endurance, positivity, and gratefulness. I'm in your corner and I plan to find something yellow and/or green in my closet to wear tomorrow in your honor. You are in my prayers and I'm always a phone call away. We are long overdue for a check-in anyway. I'll give you a call tonight.
Even with this surprising news, I am happy to hear from you. I plan to keep tabs on you via the blog so keep writing. So far, it rocks! Thank you for sharing your journey. You're a fighter so I know you will kick cancer's ass!
I will talk to you soon,
Desiree'
P.S. I wish I'd known you were in Atlanta last month too. Considering the circumstances, I'll let that slide. LOL! I haven't seen you in 7 years!! :-o
This neurosurgeon of yours is special, although I think you bring out the best in many of us. I found his bed side manners to be great. I would love to join you two in the Disney Marathon. See you there.
ReplyDeleteDez, great comments.
ReplyDelete