I read Odie’s article (first year pedia resident at PGH) and I couldn’t help crying. These pieces often strike a chord. Fact is, I read it thrice over. Or more. Each time, tears came. I don’t know if that has the effect on other non-medical people. But as an ex-resident, its tough not to get affected. And reminisce.

The thing is that pedia’s a specialty that pulls at your heartstrings. There’s something about kids. Whether you have kids or not, by choice or destiny, its impossible not to get affected. Maybe its their innocence. Or the wealth of opportunities for the young. But seeing sick kids and their families are always difficult. One reason why pediatricians are a special breed indeed. (Not counting the challenges of their specialty.. try inserting an IV cath on an infant with the whole family breathing down your neck.)

My story is about a 2 year old toddler named Angel. Her family gets by selling banana-cue. Mom cooks, dad sells.  One afternoon, mom left the kitchen for a moment, while the sugar is being brought to a boil. Angel, curious little cherub, reached for the hot pan, and, feeling the heat, pulled her hand back quickly, bringing the pan and its boiling contents all over herself. But this is the province, where old wives’ tales reign. Angel’s parents doused several cloth diapers with vinegar and promptly applied these to her body. After 4 long hours, with no obvious improvement, the parents decide to make the long journey to Manila. Via public commute. Through the infamous Manila traffic. By the time we receive Angel, she was staring blankly, largely unresponsive. Multiple attempts at securing an IV line did not elicit any cry or whimper. We lost her 3 days later.

This happened over a decade ago, but the memory remains so vivid to me. Thankfully, I remember both the good and the bad. And its for the good moments we always live for, while remembering the few bad ones whose invaluable lessons we honor everyday.