This weekend I celebrate a milestone birthday. While I can reflect on the past year- its challenges, successes, seismic changes, remarkable and the unremarkable moments, it is frankly not where I put energy. By nature, I am not that introspective. Anticipating the new year is what brings me joy. That is why managing patients at a critical time in their lives is so fulfilling. I am not mired in the management, I am seeing a “new you”, unburdened by the clutches of disease. No the cancer may actually not be completely gone, the days may still be busy with testing. The office visits may be threateningly chaotic. But what I witness is the reclaimed power. The “I got this attitude”. The “I am here” bravado for your families and friends.
More than the work and caring for patients, I love the outcomes that drag and drive both of us to success. Some take this effort for granted (I never have, I know it is a honor). But some do ask, “How have you devoted your life to this career? Isn’t it tough?” Nope! I recognize the depth of gratitude I have to touch lives everyday. I have always said that it is a sacred privilege. I recall in medical school learning physical exam. I took my newly minted stethoscope, a prized possession in financial squeeze. I placed it on my friend’s back to listen to breath sounds. I can still vividly recall where I was and how I felt startled that people would allow and even welcome this intrusion. I never took it for granted. So, if I am indulging in retrospect, there is a great deal of respect included. Realizing that the life you choose each year, each day is the real gift.
And so, as a new year for me begins, I celebrate all of you having a birthday this year (wait, that is everyone!). Let us all be reborn with purpose, devotion, and love. Moving forward with faith that we will succeed through the challenges and have hope for a bright, joy filled new year and new you.
Pearl: As we leave prostate and breast cancer months, be aware that there are tools to aid decisions regarding treatment. Genetically testing the biopsy material aids in deciding if treatment is necessary, how aggressive the tumor is and what survival and recurrences are: For breast: Decision Rt for DCIS, For prostate, Decifer and for chemo benefit Oncodx. They take a few weeks to run, insurances pay now and always worth the wait before pulling trigger to treat. Now that’s a gift.