by Scott Griffin, MD (PGY-2)

I originally wrote this as a reflection during the COVID-19 crisis that has defined the second half of my PGY-2 year. I think to understand this reflection, it’s important to recognize the context. I still remember that day in 6th grade. Walking from my science class across the hall to my social studies class. My teacher had the TV on, which felt like contraband at the time, but I didn’t realize at first why.  

Then, I saw the twin towers engulfed in flames. I remember at that time the sense of pride that I had in seeing how our country banded together. It was incredible. But we could hug, we could hold each other, we could go to our churches and pray for peace together (which I distinctly remember doing). We could still go out to restaurants and discuss the events. 

Fast forward almost 19 years, and I feel eerily similar but entirely different. Now, it’s an invisible enemy. Now, it’s the whole world fighting a common foe. Now, I’m a doctor and on the front lines of a very different type of war. This pandemic has taken away basic human assumptions like our ability to converse as humans (less than six feet apart). Healthcare workers worry about going home to their families. Friends in my field are getting sick while helping the sick. Despite the obligation to socially distance, again our country has seemingly become closer despite all this. We’re all again fighting a common enemy, and humanity has risen above yet another disaster. There’s no stopping the disasters that will come, and my role has changed dramatically from a seemingly helpless sixth grader to a 30-year-old doctor, but I cannot help but appreciate the humanity and common love and beliefs that arise during crises.

I will not forget my first COVID admission. He was a blind man who came in with symptoms very consistent with this virus. He wasn’t a known positive when I admitted him, but I knew he fit the bill. I spent about two hours in his room because we couldn’t keep his oxygen in a range that would sustain him long. Fortunately, I had been taught by some of the best and was confident in the decisions I made. He ended up improving within minutes, and I was reminded of how far I’ve come as a physician and how often I take that for granted or fail to see my progress. We forget not knowing what we’ve learned and now take as “common knowledge.” My reflection for this semester is to remember those that have contributed to the person/physician I’ve become. It’s their humanity and selflessness that I’ll remember.