Of Eid

I do apologise for the lack of updates. Been very preoccupied with work. Probably a bit too much. I'm doing a mixed rotation where I'm working for both the palliative unit and the geriatric unit. Palliative care is surely very interesting and is quite ethically challenging at times. And geriatrics definitely hits my soft spot. If you want something from me - make sure you live at least home alone, have at least seventy years of life on your face and speak with a senile voice - and I will hand it to you on a silver platter.

I witnessed my first passing last week. Not certifying death but actually watching my patient blow out his last breath. It was like a rattle. Then all was still.

Since starting, death certificates are a norm for me but also family meetings become part and parcel of my work. No one likes being the messenger of bad news. But unfortunately it often falls to the doctors to say it - even though I think the social worker or the palliative nurse do it so much better. Death brings out the worse and best in people.

I've also learnt to challenge apparent 'protocols' or traditions. Not disrespectfully. But to speak up and ask why things have to be done in a certain way when it is clearly not working. I think my NUM thinks I'm a bit of a rebel. But really - I'm just trying to make work more efficient.

I bought this absolutely gorgeous dress from Forever New and I'm not sure where I'm going to wear it. But I keep touching it, not believing it's real. Sigh.

I do so love hearing the takbir raya and watching the sun rise as I drive on the freeway to work. It puts me in a raya mood but also makes me feel quite mellow.

My sincerest apologies to all my friends if I have done or said that may have hurt you.

Selamat Hari Raya. Happy Eidul Fitri to all my sisters and brothers everywhere.

Maaf Zahir dan Batin.

PS: Btw found this awesome website when I was hunting around to pay my zakat - MuslimAid.