My road came to an unexpected halt on November 9, 2010.

That morning, I was bicycling to work when a garbage truck turned across a city bike lane. I was in that bike lane.

A team of trauma surgeons saved my life, but they had to amputate my left leg. My body and life were forever changed.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.

As I learned to walk again, I measured my recovery in steps and then miles. Over time that journey grew into something more -- a way of being in the world, wherever I go.

I am a person of ability and disability. I travel in the space between. These are my postcards.

Thursday, August 3, 2023

Thank You Jefferson First-Years!

Mile Marker 12,050:

New students.
White coats.

I'm standing in the center of an auditorium full of medical students in white coats.
So much hope and promise in one room!

At Jefferson University, Medical School begins with listening to patient stories.  

It's hard to express how much this means to me.  

There's nothing quite like a doctor who listens.  (I learned this from my own medical team!)

It eases pain and anxiety.  
It builds relationships and trust.
It makes all the difference.

I've been a "patient speaker" in this class for several years, yet it always has an impact on me.

I admire the journey of these "first-year" students.  I'm amazed by the questions they ask.  I'm awed by their insight, not as doctors (just yet!), but as fellow humans with their own life experience that inspired them to take this path. 

It's a full auditorium today.  

Me being interviewed at a table by a doctor with a white coat.
Dr. McNett interviews me.

As I look out across that sea of white coats, I imagine my story landing gently -- like a small stone -- and rippling outward, as if the care I received from my own doctors could touch future patients and families.

It's an honor to share my story with these students.

Especially because they're listening. 

Thank you for the warm welcome, Class of 2027!  

I know you'll make a difference in the lives of your patients.

You've already made a difference in mine.

Walk on,
Rebecca

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4 comments:

  1. Joseph the Med Student-Class of '27August 4, 2023 at 11:44 PM

    Thank you for speaking with us! Your wisdom and insight were a testament to the journey you have faced, and your grace and gratitude showed that you have truly turned your setbacks into successes. Best of luck in the future!

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    1. RebeccaAugust 7, 2023 at 8:25 AM

      Joseph, THANK YOU for taking your first steps on this journey to care for patients and families! The dedication and hard work of you and your classmates means so much to me, and I know it will make a difference in the future of health care!

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  2. AnonymousAugust 5, 2023 at 10:23 AM

    Uncle Steve, former first year jefferson med. student in 1975... class of '79. retired.

    We had a very traditional medical school curriculum back then with the first 2 years of mostly bookwork and an occasional ATP (approach to the patient) class on Fridays headed by one professor but no patients interviews. Joseph the medical student has a good start into our village/profession of the healing arts.....listening to the patients.

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    Replies
    1. RebeccaAugust 7, 2023 at 8:23 AM

      Uncle Dr. Steve -- always and forever my favorite Jefferson first-year! Even when I was an inpatient, your Jefferson connections made a difference. Love you lots xoxo

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