I was taking care of a man who was 40 but looked at least twenty-years older. He was tattoo'd from head to toe, including the obligatory prison tattoo's 'LOVE' and 'HATE' on his fingers. his arms bore the scars of decades of drug abuse, teeth were missing and his belly distended with the accumulated fluid of liver failure.
I gathered my IV supplies and headed into the room. Introducing myself, I explained what I was going to do, to which the patient replied, "you be careful ma'am, I have Hepatitis C."
I've been kicked, punched, shoved, spit on. I've had patients pinch me, crush my fingers and one even tried to choke me (he had Alzheimer's.) But nothing has surprised me as much as this concern for my well being from this unexpected source. I was ashamed and humbled because I had failed to see the humanity beneath the man's exterior. It was a real eye opener for me.
I came to know this man well, taking care of him in our ER for years as the ravages of liver failure stole away his life. He was never anything but kind, patient and uncomplaining of how his life turned out.
Rest in peace Robert*, I hope you are pain free and at peace.
*not his real name
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
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5 comments:
Very nice post. I always enjoy your blog and it has become one of my favorites.
I, like you, remember patient's that have touched my heart. Be it recently or decades ago. They are all special memories.
Funny how the wrapping never gives you much clue about the gifts of the person inside.
Glad you were able to see beyond the wrapping.
Very touching and very sad. I look forward to all your new blogs.
Ambulance driver, you echoed my thoughts. Good presents aren't always dressed up in pretty bows.
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