It's unbelievable what kinds of issues can affect a person when they receive a diagnosis. Who should they find for treatment? Where do they go to ask questions? What are the questions they should be asking? What can they expect?
And then there are so many more issues. What about parents? If your parents are not in this country how do you get them there so that you can spend time with them in your time of need. And how does one retain a level of normalcy in life? Is it possible to get the best treatment where I am or do I need to relocate, and if I did relocate or fly for treatments, what would happen next?
I'm glad I can be there through these questions. I feel fortunate to be in the medical profession, from which I have access at my fingertips to so many individuals and excellent physicians. It is astounding what people will do for you and what they will put themselves through to help preserve the life of another person they don't even know. And finding these people, who can provide so much help, allows me to make what small contributions I can.
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
Monday, February 14, 2005
Chimpangutans in love
Ok, maybe not. But it IS valentine's day, and you know what that means.
http://www.funpages.com/apple/
http://www.funpages.com/apple/
Saturday, February 12, 2005
What kind of Butt Wiper are you?
Sandpaper Wiper | 100% | ||
Overzealous Wiper | 83% | ||
Conservationist Wiper | 58% | ||
Two-Ply Folding Wiper | 42% | ||
Naturalist Wiper | 25% |
What kind of butt wiper are you?
created with QuizFarm.com
Becoming a doctor
The reasons why I have chosen medicine hit me at the oddest, no, the most appropriate times. Certainly at the most personal times.
I'm currently contacting physicians to deal with a person close to me who has been diagnosed with cancer. So far I'm just fielding the area, explaining the story and hoping that people will point me in good directions. And it is amazing how much support I already feel for my loved one. Every time I receive the warm responses that each physician sends, I count my lucky stars. I cannot help but think of that physician as a savior. He or she is working to preserve life. It is amazing how strong and intimidating a charge that is, and the doctors are emailing me back on their Saturday afternoons, when they could be napping on the couch or eating a pizza. They aren't relaxing, their jobs are forever.
It's amazing what souls I see in them, and how sincerely they want to make sure that people get the best care. And I am amazed when I see that come out in myself, in little, less educated, but still hopeful bits. Fumbling my way through explanations of medical terms, trying to give everyone a positive outlook, and trying to be realistic about everything as well. It's amazing what can come up in you when the necessity arises. And you realize that the times indeed do come up when you can actually help another person.
I'm currently contacting physicians to deal with a person close to me who has been diagnosed with cancer. So far I'm just fielding the area, explaining the story and hoping that people will point me in good directions. And it is amazing how much support I already feel for my loved one. Every time I receive the warm responses that each physician sends, I count my lucky stars. I cannot help but think of that physician as a savior. He or she is working to preserve life. It is amazing how strong and intimidating a charge that is, and the doctors are emailing me back on their Saturday afternoons, when they could be napping on the couch or eating a pizza. They aren't relaxing, their jobs are forever.
It's amazing what souls I see in them, and how sincerely they want to make sure that people get the best care. And I am amazed when I see that come out in myself, in little, less educated, but still hopeful bits. Fumbling my way through explanations of medical terms, trying to give everyone a positive outlook, and trying to be realistic about everything as well. It's amazing what can come up in you when the necessity arises. And you realize that the times indeed do come up when you can actually help another person.
Thursday, February 10, 2005
OMG (did I just type that?)
Can't study can't study can't study. Too much to do and don't want to do any of it. I actually have too much time to study - the whole freaking weekend in fact. And I don't want to do it. i don't want to do any of it.
Wednesday, February 09, 2005
Nearly V-Day and comments on blogging
Wow I have blog-stalkers who are willing to remain in the woodwork. All I can identify is that when I said "Chimpangutan" in everyday conversation, my blog-stalking-friend said "You are the chimpangutan." Wow, what a memory. Now if I could use the same ingenuity to remember information from that crazy Neuro class I'd be set for life.
Though I don't know if I really like being "the chimpangutan." But does it really matter now? You can't change who you are. And if you are a person with a tendency to be strange and to invoke the ridicule of others from time to time, can you NOT be a chimpangutan?
As for Valentine's Day. Some people hate it. Some people fear being alone for it. Well, being without a Valentine doesn't change things much since it's been my status for 22 out of my 24 years of life. But I know that people love me.
If nothing else, Valentine's Day has given me one funny story, which would not have happened, had I a Valentine that year. Back when I was a sophomore in college, I was the only one of my 6 roommates to have not "heard" the 7th roommate with her boyfriend. I took pride in that and was quite relieved in fact, though I was curious about how disturbing the sounds could possibly be. So on valentine's day, after dinnertime, around 8pm, I was making valentines in my room to give to my roommates. I felt rather cheerful. I took my Valentines in a hop, skip, and a jump to my roommates' room and then skipped down the hallway to distribute the rest when I heard a most horrendous, disturbing, and subtle noise of heavy breathing. My eyes widened in a flash and I bolted for my room. God how scary. I learned later that my other roommate had been hiding inside her bedroom with music playing loudly in order to avoid the auditory spectacle.
Maybe that wasn't such a good thing to happen on a Valentine's Day.
Though I don't know if I really like being "the chimpangutan." But does it really matter now? You can't change who you are. And if you are a person with a tendency to be strange and to invoke the ridicule of others from time to time, can you NOT be a chimpangutan?
As for Valentine's Day. Some people hate it. Some people fear being alone for it. Well, being without a Valentine doesn't change things much since it's been my status for 22 out of my 24 years of life. But I know that people love me.
If nothing else, Valentine's Day has given me one funny story, which would not have happened, had I a Valentine that year. Back when I was a sophomore in college, I was the only one of my 6 roommates to have not "heard" the 7th roommate with her boyfriend. I took pride in that and was quite relieved in fact, though I was curious about how disturbing the sounds could possibly be. So on valentine's day, after dinnertime, around 8pm, I was making valentines in my room to give to my roommates. I felt rather cheerful. I took my Valentines in a hop, skip, and a jump to my roommates' room and then skipped down the hallway to distribute the rest when I heard a most horrendous, disturbing, and subtle noise of heavy breathing. My eyes widened in a flash and I bolted for my room. God how scary. I learned later that my other roommate had been hiding inside her bedroom with music playing loudly in order to avoid the auditory spectacle.
Maybe that wasn't such a good thing to happen on a Valentine's Day.
Saturday, January 22, 2005
Lazy Saturday
Brrrr it's cold outside! Can't figure out what to write about today. I found that elusive "Mormon Underwear" on the net (another person's blog I think) and I find it continually fascinating. Ok, not too fascinating. But it at least warrants a 5-minute conversation over wine and cheese, does it not? Or during the Steelers or Eagles games this weekend?
I mean really! Mormon underwear has been hidden from us for generations. It's not the most exciting stuff, but it's definitely different from your average underwear. I just think it's great that it's Magic!!
Ok now to study. Should i go sledding? Ok i know i'm a nerd. I should, but i can't :-(
I mean really! Mormon underwear has been hidden from us for generations. It's not the most exciting stuff, but it's definitely different from your average underwear. I just think it's great that it's Magic!!
Ok now to study. Should i go sledding? Ok i know i'm a nerd. I should, but i can't :-(
Thursday, January 20, 2005
Bullfrogs, Frogs' Legs, and Toads
Bullfrogs: Just started writing an arrangement of "Joy to the World" by Three Dog Night for my a cappella group. It's the first song i've ever tried to arrange in full. Crazy. I hope it goes decently and sounds good. At least the group has faith in me. It's certainly a fun respite from school, writing music. Not something I get to do every day. Makes me want to be more creative in my every day efforts.
Now, to get to updating my language skills and get to painting again. I've got three works in progress that are just dying to get completed! Oooh I want to oil paint.
Cool website: www.jibjab.com - check out their new tune hailing (with real hail) the inauguration of our great Prez-O-dent
Frogs' legs: I just started reading Anthony Bourdain's Les Halles Cookbook. So far so good. It's as in-your-face as anyone has told me so far. I don't know how much I like the overall look of the book. Being a design maven, I find something about the design simply off, but i'm being picky. First I need to try the recipes and put in as much oomph and gusto into the work as Mounsieur Bourdain demands. Then I pass it on to my dad, who gives the final word on the quality of the book. At least I know that one of my fave TV chefs, "Molto Mario" Batali, enjoys the work. Hope it turns out well and that I have the hours and hours I need to put out these French creations.
And finally, Toads: No, I'm not talking my fave early-nineties band Toad the Wet Sprocket (whose guitar pick from a 2003 concert is now in my possession) . . I'm talking about men. Specific toads in my life, actually. How the heck do you forget about the great toad in your life that couldn't be your prince for decidedly practical reasons? Is my task a "fool's errand"? I guess all I can do is remember the good times and hope that another toad pops into view sooner than later!
Now, to get to updating my language skills and get to painting again. I've got three works in progress that are just dying to get completed! Oooh I want to oil paint.
Cool website: www.jibjab.com - check out their new tune hailing (with real hail) the inauguration of our great Prez-O-dent
Frogs' legs: I just started reading Anthony Bourdain's Les Halles Cookbook. So far so good. It's as in-your-face as anyone has told me so far. I don't know how much I like the overall look of the book. Being a design maven, I find something about the design simply off, but i'm being picky. First I need to try the recipes and put in as much oomph and gusto into the work as Mounsieur Bourdain demands. Then I pass it on to my dad, who gives the final word on the quality of the book. At least I know that one of my fave TV chefs, "Molto Mario" Batali, enjoys the work. Hope it turns out well and that I have the hours and hours I need to put out these French creations.
And finally, Toads: No, I'm not talking my fave early-nineties band Toad the Wet Sprocket (whose guitar pick from a 2003 concert is now in my possession) . . I'm talking about men. Specific toads in my life, actually. How the heck do you forget about the great toad in your life that couldn't be your prince for decidedly practical reasons? Is my task a "fool's errand"? I guess all I can do is remember the good times and hope that another toad pops into view sooner than later!
Wednesday, January 19, 2005
Reminiscence
It's been a few days since I last visited my blog. School has been tremendously busy these past days, replete with lab hours and a whole new slew of lectures, as well as an 1.5 hour fight with the copy machine this afternoon. It's business as usual.
I was surfing the online "friend" websites that I'm a part of and just couldn't help reminiscing about how great it would be to be able to float away into that world of my dreams, peppered by exploration and wandering, back to memories of old friends and a road that looks uncertain yet familiar in its untrodden aspect. Instead, as much as I like life these days its disgusting monotony is hard to tolerate when you're itching to explore. It makes me wonder what truly lies ahead for me and if I've been making the right decisions in life so far: to stay the more sure, certain course. To get some security and get myself a little settled into a good career before trying to up and wander around.
What is it about the greener pastures that offers such strong appeal? Happy as I am, secure as I am with family and friends, I can't help but envy companions modeling in Europe and running marathons, or others in California or New York or a myriad other places. Sometimes "anywhere but here" just grabs and pulls. Tugs even.
And then there is music. A beautiful piece by Biebl (all men's chorus, you know it if you know it). from my college glee club. Brings me tears. Oh god.
I was surfing the online "friend" websites that I'm a part of and just couldn't help reminiscing about how great it would be to be able to float away into that world of my dreams, peppered by exploration and wandering, back to memories of old friends and a road that looks uncertain yet familiar in its untrodden aspect. Instead, as much as I like life these days its disgusting monotony is hard to tolerate when you're itching to explore. It makes me wonder what truly lies ahead for me and if I've been making the right decisions in life so far: to stay the more sure, certain course. To get some security and get myself a little settled into a good career before trying to up and wander around.
What is it about the greener pastures that offers such strong appeal? Happy as I am, secure as I am with family and friends, I can't help but envy companions modeling in Europe and running marathons, or others in California or New York or a myriad other places. Sometimes "anywhere but here" just grabs and pulls. Tugs even.
And then there is music. A beautiful piece by Biebl (all men's chorus, you know it if you know it). from my college glee club. Brings me tears. Oh god.
Sunday, January 16, 2005
Lazy Days
My goodness, it's not a great idea to start a blog and then skip a day. I need to work on this stuff more. So what's the news of the weekend aside from having no school and little work?
Hip, Cheap, and Chic
Pittsburgh is not so un-hip as it may seem. Visited Sartos on Walnut Street yesterday - nice hipster clothes at affordable prices. It's upstairs and next door to Prantl's. Highly recommended and great service.
Yay Pennsylvania!
I know i'm not the only one waiting for an Eagles/Steelers Superbowl. Given the results of the games this weekend I can't help but be relieved that my hometown Eagles are doing so well. As for the Steelers - they pulled through in the end but geez that game was rough. I know, both Eagles and Steelers fans alike probably hate me right now, but the truth is I know so little about sports, I'm just glad that two teams from my state are doing so well this year. Here's hoping for next weekend. Fingers are crossed.
the Ipod Strut
Love the ipod Shuffle. Want to get one ASAP. If I don't get it through this free ipod referral program, I hope to get it anyway, somehow somewhere. Light as a feather and fits music and files? I like it. Who cares if it just shuffles. I put my music on shuffle as it is, anyway!
What else is going on? Just finishing up some prereading for class. Had fun cleaning the apartment today. By fun I mean not fun. Also still trudging through my summer travels photo album. Hopefully that will be finished up soon . . .
Later gators.
Hip, Cheap, and Chic
Pittsburgh is not so un-hip as it may seem. Visited Sartos on Walnut Street yesterday - nice hipster clothes at affordable prices. It's upstairs and next door to Prantl's. Highly recommended and great service.
Yay Pennsylvania!
I know i'm not the only one waiting for an Eagles/Steelers Superbowl. Given the results of the games this weekend I can't help but be relieved that my hometown Eagles are doing so well. As for the Steelers - they pulled through in the end but geez that game was rough. I know, both Eagles and Steelers fans alike probably hate me right now, but the truth is I know so little about sports, I'm just glad that two teams from my state are doing so well this year. Here's hoping for next weekend. Fingers are crossed.
the Ipod Strut
Love the ipod Shuffle. Want to get one ASAP. If I don't get it through this free ipod referral program, I hope to get it anyway, somehow somewhere. Light as a feather and fits music and files? I like it. Who cares if it just shuffles. I put my music on shuffle as it is, anyway!
What else is going on? Just finishing up some prereading for class. Had fun cleaning the apartment today. By fun I mean not fun. Also still trudging through my summer travels photo album. Hopefully that will be finished up soon . . .
Later gators.
Friday, January 14, 2005
People Rock!
my faith in humans has been restored as of two hours ago, when I walked into the student lounge to clean the fridges with the help of a friend who was joining me. And what did I see but three other students with the fridge nearly cleaned! Plus more students coming in to help! They were so amazing and they did everything so well! It was a really great and fun experience in the end.
Good Friday chimpangutan massacre
Screw everyone.
Today's exam went fine, which is nice. I'm feeling so antisocial right now, though, because i have such a sh** day ahead of me and there's nobody helping out, nobody to actually work with me in the tasks I have to complete (e.g. cleaning other people's garbage out of my own free will).
Bitterness has hit me. Is it not obvious? I also feel like i have recently been communicating strangely with some of the people I thought I knew best around here. Can't get anymore specific than that.
Trying to figure out what's in someone's head is the most useless project there is. And for some reason I'm just sitting there, wondering, without asking what's going on. But I know that if I asked, the answer would be that nothing is wrong, nothing is going on. There's just nothing to say so nothing to communicate. But not in a bad way. Sometimes there just isn't anything to say.
Today's exam went fine, which is nice. I'm feeling so antisocial right now, though, because i have such a sh** day ahead of me and there's nobody helping out, nobody to actually work with me in the tasks I have to complete (e.g. cleaning other people's garbage out of my own free will).
Bitterness has hit me. Is it not obvious? I also feel like i have recently been communicating strangely with some of the people I thought I knew best around here. Can't get anymore specific than that.
Trying to figure out what's in someone's head is the most useless project there is. And for some reason I'm just sitting there, wondering, without asking what's going on. But I know that if I asked, the answer would be that nothing is wrong, nothing is going on. There's just nothing to say so nothing to communicate. But not in a bad way. Sometimes there just isn't anything to say.
Wednesday, January 12, 2005
You see
It's not easy being a chimpangutan, the coolest animal in the world, duh, a combination of a Chimpanzee and an Orangutan. Think smart. Think almost human. Think very talkative and friendly-appearing, but aggressive if aggravated. Also colorful. Hell, I like orange as much as the next gal.
Cranky
Been meaning to set this up for quite some time. My first post was going to be about the elusive Mormon Underwear. But instead, today's topic is me being cranky.
People suck. I offer to clean the 2 lounge fridges (used by 600 people) and nobody friggin' wants to help. I am damn cranky.
People suck. I offer to clean the 2 lounge fridges (used by 600 people) and nobody friggin' wants to help. I am damn cranky.
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