So here it is, Christmas day...

[themostepotente]

For those of you that don't know me or what I do for a living, I am a second year med student. My major specifically is pediatric oncology. So what does that mean exactly? I deal with cancer stricken children who don't always live to see their next birthdays. Today was no exception. We had two children die today, one 12, one 14. I wonder what kind of person I will ultimately become exposing myself to desensitization...

~TMP

Comments

[alchemy]

Oh, man. Bless you for doing work like that, knowing how emotionally stressful it can be. *hug*

[themostepotente.livejournal.com]

Halo, my DD buddy! Thank you for your kind words :-)
*hugs back*

I second that *points to other comment*

[tytoalba.livejournal.com]

I work with wild animals who often die or must be put to sleep and I know it can be emotionally stressing and desensitizing to see other living beings go through such strife and pain, but knowing that you ARE doing something good in a world often full of indifference or darkness helps...a bit...I think. Even though animals aren't like humans in that they don't seem to be the same when it comes to our hopes, dreams, wills, etc., but I can say that you are a blessèd soul for doing what you're doing.

Tyto Alba
-So shines a good deed in a weary world.-

Re: I second that *points to other comment*

[themostepotente.livejournal.com]

Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. Good movie and great quote, D. *snuzzes*

[isiscolo.livejournal.com]

I don't know if it ever happens. I have two good friends, one who is a pediatric oncology nurse, the other who is an ER pediatrician. They are both (still) kind and loving and wonderful people, despite working with dying children.

I think it takes a certain mindset to be able to deal, rather than it changing you into a different person.

[themostepotente.livejournal.com]

It does take a certain mindset, I think, but there are times when I still drive home crying and feeling helpless. Thanks for your input, Isis.

~TMP

[mamaboid.livejournal.com]

I wonder what kind of person I will ultimately become exposing myself to desensitization...

I think the fact that you can do this work at all is a good indication that your heart can survive it. A woman I go to church with has been a pediatric oncologist for over twenty years, and she is one of the kindest people I know. I admire people like her, and you, who are willing and able to care for these sick children.

[themostepotente.livejournal.com]

MamaB, hope you had a splendid Christmas. And I do what I can, when I can. Have missed ya!