After the three day "make or break" course at the Kuala Lumpur Hospital, I've come to realise one huge thing..,
Despite all the effort; blood, sweat & tears (if I may quote a rather laid-back, humorous HKL doctor) that needs to be put in to get there, (oh boy and even when you're already there, the effort doesn't stop now does it?) everything feels absolutely worth it when you hear those two magical words..
"Thank you"
I loved the atmosphere. Being with approximately 156 other people who shared that same dream, that same noble goal, felt like home. Here you have so many others who want this just as much as you do and everyone realises the other spells out C-O-M-P-E-T-I-T-I-O-N, but within that short span of time, there was an unmistakable sense of unity.
I admire truly, the numerous doctors and nurses who without fail answered our every question, no matter how peculiar or eyebrow raising, and with that, not one sighed in exasperation or turned us away out of annoyance. They, are living proof that no matter how highly educated you are, it isn't impossible to stay grounded.
We were divided into groups of 25-27 and visited six different departments which were Orthopedic, Surgery, Forensic, Out Patient, Emergency and O&G (Obstetric & Gynaecology). Of course, some experienced more than others. For instance, the group that went to the Forensic lab on the first day had the opportunity to witness a LIVE post mortem AND later that day at the O&G labour room, a mother giving birth! Dear god, my group mates and I were way beyond envious.
Ah, since we're on the subject of morgues, it wasn't as freaky as some might assume. Eh.. then again that's probably cause you'd be in with some 25 others.. But there was one thing I had some trouble getting out of my head; the smell of decaying flesh. Boy, it really does stay with you. It's odd how even now, certain whiffs remind me of it. Lots of things are starting to smell of death. God, I sound so morbid..
There was a sense of sadness to it all. Most of the bodies there were unidentified therefore unclaimed. In truth, everyone dies alone. But I suppose the thought of having no loved ones to give you a decent burial service, that final closure, breaks my heart. It makes you appreciate the people you have knowing that when it's your time, you'll have someone with you in a heart beat.
Not only did I find true motivation, I had the honour, if I may say so, to meet a number of intellectually pleasant people I definitely hope to see again. I look forward to the day our paths may cross once more.
Interviews were always a terrifying prospect to me until 9 hours ago when I had my first (Prefect interviews in school don't count. Why? Because I say so =X) I can't say I've come to LOVE it. Absolutely not.. But I'm glad that I had a chance at it today. I like to think that hands on experiences make you a wiser more knowledgeable person.
So, one scholarship application officially completed. Back to more waiting, praying, and hoping for the best.
The Pengarah of HKL reminded us that doctors do what they can to help, it is God that decides the outcome and quoted Benjamin Franklin;
"God heals and the doctor takes the fee"
Invitation cards for Iskandar's Birthday Party 
13 to 15 April 2007
