I Recall: Life-Changing Insights from Patients and Ropes Courses
It was a beautiful summer day beneath the redwood trees when I first tried the ropes course at Mount Hermon. Gripping a hanging rope, my feet unsteady on a small disc, I felt unsure. I fell, but my harness prevented me from hitting the forest floor. Unable to complete the Level 1 grapevine traversal, I doubted my own strength and capabilities.
Fast forward to a year later on another bright day in the redwoods. This time, I am better equipped, having progressed from lifting an empty trap bar to deadlifting 130 pounds. With increased strength, I navigate through Level 2, motivated by a patient’s suggestion of this Bay Area adventure.
Insights from the Exam Room
A patient once recounted her five-star Yelp review of Mount Hermon, igniting my initial visit. The experience revealed my capacity for physical strength, extending beyond what I absorbed in medical school about patient care and managing illnesses.
Medical school trained me for gathering patient histories and conducting research but not for these reflective, serene moments. Such moments emerged even during colposcopies where, while conversing with patients, I discovered more about myself and applied these insights to my profession.
One patient shared her approach to submitting writing work, embracing rejection as a component of locating the appropriate audience. Her determination transformed my perspective on failure.
Strength and Setbacks in Practice
From my patients, I have discovered that setbacks enhance outcomes rather than expose frailty. Aspiring to conquer Mount Hermon, I embraced weightlifting, which sharpened my surgical skills and deepened my understanding of pelvic health concerns. As a result, surgeries became less taxing, enabling me to suggest effective exercises for diverse conditions.
One patient motivated me to explore new ventures without the fear of failure. This has led to scientific publications and enhanced engagement with Spanish-speaking patients, bolstering their confidence in my diagnoses.
Strength is forged through failure, as seen in weightlifting. This gradual development permitted my progression from Level 1 to Level 2.
The Evolving Physician
Quiet intervals devoid of clinical demands have expanded the definition of a physician. I can now conquer the Level 2 ropes course and will not shy away from attempting Level 3. This illustrates my growing ability to translate patient symptoms into diagnoses and research into treatments. Through patient interactions, this ongoing learning journey continues to unfold.