THE QUARTERLY PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC PEDIATRICIANS
Fall 2020 Issue
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Putting Life into Perspective During a Pandemic
By Jenna Massaro, OMS-IV
Nova Southeastern University
Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine
“Okay, now turn around so Dr. O can listen to your back,” giggled the adorable five-year-old girl holding my stethoscope.“
"She refers to herself as Dr. O,” her mom explained, to my amusement. Following her orders, I turned around and she placed the stethoscope on my back, instructing me to breathe deeply. While I was impressed by her quick wit, as an Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia survivor, she has had her fair share of office visits and is a professional when it comes to physical exams.
Throughout my four weeks rotating in pediatric hematology and oncology, I was continuously amazed by the joy and resilience exuded by the patients, physicians, and staff despite the medical hardships and added stress imposed by COVID-19. While many of us have been able to essentially hit the pause button on our lives in accordance with “stay-at-home” orders, cancer patients are not allowed the same luxury. Many treatment plans require daily visits for either chemotherapy, radiation, or blood count checks that sometimes lead to unexpected hospital admissions. These tiny warriors and their concerned family members show up every day prepared to face whatever new obstacle may present itself.
A positive outcome of the frequent visits; however, is the unique relationship formed between patient and staff that is, without a doubt, unmatched by that of any other specialty. Staff turn into extended family for these patients—an additional source of trust and comfort during such worrisome times. While COVID-19 has created much concern, especially with its assumed predisposition for those with underlying medical conditions, these patients expressed feeling safe whenever they stepped foot onto the unit as a result of the relationships they have formed and in turn the reassuring environment that the staff has created.
During my time on this rotation, I witnessed five new cancer diagnoses, four birthday celebrations, three bone marrow biopsies, two unfortunate deaths, and one very brave little boy ring the ceremonial bell indicating he had completed cancer treatment and was in remission. Yet, my biggest takeaway from this month was the simple reminder that how we carry ourselves and treat others matters.
As some of us return to rotations after being away from them for a few months and others are beginning them for the first time, I hope that we can all remember how fortunate we are to hold a position of knowledge and support for others as future physicians. In a time where we are all faced with great uncertainty and anxiety/depression are on the rise, it is of utmost importance to be kind and thoughtful--not only to others but to yourself as well!
