Shadowing....In the beginning.

As I began this process I went to our local hospital and spoke with the individual that works with the Medical School students as they come out for rotations. I explained my situation and asked for help with arranging shadowing opportunities. 

For me, arranging shadowing opportunities on my own was getting me nowhere fast, so I knew that I needed help. In my full time career and life, I just did not have interactions with physicians to build relationships to pull upon for shadowing opportunities. Going to the source was the best option I had.

What did I ask for and why?  I have a great deal of experience as an ENT patient. I had nearly 20 surgeries on both ears before I was 18. I worked in the ER while in college, but that was nearly 10 years ago and in another city/state. I worked in a lab and taught at a Community College. Again, 10 years ago and no where near my current home. So basically all my "medical" experience is ancient! UGH! In order to figure out what things are like now, I knew I was going to need to jump in. So I asked to shadow everyone. Every type of physician. If I am going to leave a great career behind to pursue my dream, well, I owe it to my family to remind myself of what that dream really looks like - GOOD, BAD, & UGLY. Luckily for me, my new found ally thought it was a great idea to shadow different types of docs, too. 

And that is how I began down the road of shadowing. I have learned an enormous amount from each physician that has permitted me into their world. It has been amazing. In future posts I will break down each experience, questions I asked, bites of wisdom shared. Thank you to all of the physicians that have been so wonderful to allow me to spend a few moments with them, their teams, and their patients.