Every armed service inductee takes an oath to defend the Constitution… not people. But, regardless the branch, the oath is personal for each and a desire to protect our nation as well as loved ones. This mission exists in all of us. We have families we commit to. We have work we are responsible for. (tsk ending sentences w prepositions). We have friends who rely on us. In medical care we apply knowledge and ability daily for the good of others. We all protect and we serve.
For a man or woman who took this oath for military service, it is above and beyond what we have vowed. It is a directive that they will be a force in the face of threat. They will stand in harms way to protect a nation.
George is in exam room one on Friday. For a robust man in his seventies he looks beaten. Smoking has been long over but, as recently documented, the affects are for life and so he is suffering the consequences. Rounds of chemo have obliterated his white blood cells. Radiation is causing further insult with energy and eating. I add more medications to ameliorate symptoms to his already mountain of drugs “to help him get through”. He looks at me doubtful- even suspicious. “Hey Doc, I feel like crap”. I ought to get T shirts made. His sweet wife of over 30 years scribbles diligently on a tiny pad- it should be a big binder at this point. She is hoping that keeping the details in order will actually bring order to their lives so in disarray. They gave up their business. Put all retirement travel on hold and have no plans for holidays since cancer is a thief.
Before George leaves, I look down at the interesting hat propped on his knee. “George I see you are a veteran, Happy Veterans Day! This is an unusual hat”. George brightens up and gives me a tour: retired, Master Sargent, service branch and other symbols. He is proud, just beaten. George, like the women I mentioned a few weeks ago, just forgot. He is holding his hat in hopes it brings him courage for the battle. It will. He and his wife have tears. “Doc, will I make it out alive?” Good question. He is losing hope. “George, you are half way through. It will be rough, but if you persevere you can actually beat this. It takes tremendous fortitude and effort, but you have risen to the occasion in the past, you can be a survivor now too”.
No one has told George this. They have listed all the therapy, the side effects, the schedule, the appointments the procedures, but I believe that no one has looked at him to give him back his courage lost. I believe this serendipitous meeting today had nothing to do with radiation and everything to do with leaving no man behind.
And so this celebration of Armistice Day 11/11 at 11 o’clock that signified the end to WWI, generations still hold the candle to honor those who serve. God Bless George and all challenged by disease and suffering. God Bless our brave veterans and my own Vietnam Veteran husband. God bless the men and women who chose and continue to choose to protect and defend. Your wonderful country is filled with grateful people who do not take you for granted. Happy Veterans Day.