This title is printed to order. This book may have been self-published. If so, we cannot guarantee the quality of the content. In the main most books will have gone through the editing process however some may not. We therefore suggest that you be aware of this before ordering this book. If in doubt check either the author or publisher’s details as we are unable to accept any returns unless they are faulty. Please contact us if you have any questions.
Young and desperate, I took an entry level job in the intensive care unit at a local district hospital in rural California. This was in the early mid-1980s, a unique period in American medicine. A time when every effort was made to save a patient’s life, regardless of long-term prognosis.
Immediately, I became exposed to tragedy and death with no rulebook to guide me. I watched, I learned, and I applied myself to the true needs of those around me. In the families of the patients, I would observe life-and-death scenarios unfold before my young eyes.
I strengthened myself with the acknowledgment that the tragedy was happening to them. I only had to watch, and I could therefore let them draw strength from me as I accepted God’s call. I would lean on my Christian faith during a time that I, myself, felt unworthy and a step away from God. I was able to pray to my beloved God for those suffering around me. I became very skilled at providing comfort to those in need, as God gave me my gifts.
I can’t say that I didn’t try hard to forget these stories, but I learned that the more you try to forget, the more you remember. I feel now that the beauty in the moment is worth beholding.
This is a collection of short stories of the families and patients in the hospital ICU that I could never forget.
Betsy provides a unique and special glimpse into the world of critical care medicine. She captures how transformative this setting is for patients and medical team members alike. When we face death, it changes life. We on the medical team count it a privilege to help in the challenging journey of each patient. Betsy’s portal of the pen is offered with empathy and the insight of a fellow patient and with the respect of one who serves. Let us all be changed by their riveting stories and these refining lessons of life.
Steven L. Marvel, MD
