Mary's Faith in Me

Over the years as a physician, there have been times when a relationship with a patient has overwhelmed me emotionally. Doctors, especially surgeons are known for our ability to separate ourselves from the cruel realities of modern medicine. Yet, as a person of some empathy, I find it difficult to completely remove my compassionate side from the equation.

Recently, an elderly patient was placed in my care who needed major surgery on her leg. She was a mentally handicapped woman who lived in a group home run by an order of Catholic nuns. Mary is a quiet, rather delicate little lady. Her disability makes it difficult for her to understand complex issues. She also has a hard time communicating her needs and discomforts to others. Even the wonderful Sisters who minister to her day to day needs, can’t always understand her fears or concerns.

When brought for evaluation, even though Mary couldn’t explain the difficulties her leg was giving her, it was evident by her painful limp and obvious distress that something needed to be done to correct her situation. Surgery would be needed.

My staff and I spent some time discussing treatments with Mary and her guardians. Sometimes I could get a little smile to emerge from her face as I explained what it would take to fix her leg and relieve her pain. Other times she would reach out her hand to grasp mine as if to console me in my difficulties relaying the message.

When the day of surgery arrived, there was no lack of concern on the part of the Sisters or myself over whether or not we were making the right decision to proceed. Mary however was calm and collected as usual.

As we were leaving the pre-op area to head into the operating room, Sister gave Mary a little kiss and grasped her hand. A tear flowing down her cheek as she said goodbye. Not knowing if things would turn out OK for her ward and spiritual dependent. To my surprise, Mary suddenly spoke up to ask Sister what was wrong.

“I am just a little nervous Mary, that’s all.”

“Oh don’t worry Sister. I know Dr. Marotta is going to take good care of me and everything is going to be fine.” was Mary’s reply.

This little lady had complete faith in me. Probably the most sincere expression of trust in my abilities I have ever received. It made me feel a bit stressed but wonderful at the same time. Before the procedure began. I walked to the locker room of the O.R., spending a minute in solitude to ask God for the wisdom and ability to do a good job. This is a process I find myself going through more and more these days.

Mary’s surgery went very well. She is recovering nicely and has been an ideal patient despite our initial concerns over how she would react to such a unfamiliar ordeal.

Mary’s faith in my abilities has been a humbling lesson. I realize that the skills I possess are never to be taken lightly. I was blessed with these abilities to serve others, to help others. Their faith in me is a sacred thing and I cherish it every day.