Exhilarated. Awed. Exhausted.
Today was the first real day of classes, and the first Gross Anatomy lab. I don’t feel qualified to speak about the emotions that come with your first anatomy lab, and I definitely don’t feel inspired to speak about them. I ‘feel’ like internalizing them ~ the safe thing to do with all intensely personal and profound emotions.
Our lab instructor gave a moving speech about the people who had been willing to donate their bodies to science. She spoke quietly about the dignity and respect they deserved as our first patients. We filed downstairs to a room of 50 tables, 6 students per table. On each table was a red bag. Inside each bag was a person. An incredible person.
Over 3 hours we examined the major muscles of the back and scapula. Back muscles are something I know. This man I did not know. At one point the covering on his head came loose and his elderly hair became visible – it seemed so personal. In that instant, his essence as a human being was palpable to me.
Words fall short in every way. Thank-you.
Wow Rae. Thank you for this very touching email. I’m so impressed by the sensitivity of your prof in preparing her students so well, and in your sensitivity in listening with such an open heart. I am so appreciative of those who donate their bodies to science so that a new generation of doctors can get educated. And I guess I’m a bit surprised that you got ‘tossed into the deep end’ of medical science so quickly. Again … wow. What a privilege you have, to begin this new phase of life and growth.
Love,
Judy
Thank you so much, Judy. I agree. It is an amazing privilege.
Unbelievable. Thank you for sharing your experience, you are an amazing woman. xo
Thank you, Dougie. ❤