a heartwarming day

Today was my last day after a 6 months rotation in geriatrics.

During this time, I was most humbled by the courage some of the patients managed to muster in the time of sickness. The serenity they displayed when faced with grave prognosis. Their placidity in the hours before death.

No, I wasn't specialising in palliative medicine, but those were the most memorable moments.

It's always sad to leave a place you've got to know it so well. In fact, I've been around for as long as the new hospital has been around. Started my first year in the old hospital. Then in my second year, became the last CCU house surgeon of Auckland Hospital, followed by being the first CCU house surgeon of Auckland City Hospital.

Today's farewell was as heartwarming as the one I got from CCU 3 years ago. Dr D was just like uncle Nigel - simply inspirational.

I'll miss ward 61. I hope the first year house surgeons would come to enjoy their work despite the feeling of inadequacy that goes with being a newbie. Hopefully earlier than when I finally did in the end of my first year. I wish them every success.