Michael Jackson--the King of Pop--is dead and Dr. Conrad Murray is on trial for causing the death. This pains my heart, because I grew up "with" The Jackson Five. I'm even more pained because, even based on his own words, a physician colleague did things which the rest of us physicians realize he never should have done. Without a doubt, propofol should never have been given to MJ in this setting. Never. And that's just the beginning of unquestionable negligence and malpractice in this matter.
I have an upcoming full post, with substantive commentary, about the Conrad Murray trial and MJ's death, and another post about some other issues in the health care profession. Check back soon. But in the meantime, I want to simply share a poem from the e-book, Melodies of the Heart: Poems of Life & Love. It is entitled, "The Physician's Heart":
THE PHYSICIAN'S HEART
Dear Patient:
More than just words or simple creed,
To you I vow to do my deed;
To honor the Oath of Hippocrates,
To honor the trust you've placed in me.
Your chart, more than paper, it represents life:
Whether single, a parent, a husband or wife.
More than a number or name on a list,
I honor your person...on that I insist.
May God guide my words, my thoughts, my hands-
I'm here to serve in the healing plan.
I'm just a vessel; I'm human like you;
My goal is the very best I can do.
No matter the weather or hour of night,
I'll do my best to handle your plight.
If my words confuse, or I speak too fast,
Fear not, feel free; by all means, ask.
Your comfort, your knowledge is important to me;
What you don't understand, I'll help you see.
Though I'm just one person, my staff's here too;
We work as a team, we're here for you.
If problems arise in this place of care,
State them plain; the solution's near.
Your utmost health is my goal,
‘Tis my prayer of heart and soul.
Thank you for trusting your health to my care;
Know that I'm honored you want me here.
Of all the doctors, you chose me---
What greater honor can there be?
For your visit, I now prepare
With skill and knowledge, compassion and care.
Copyright 1998 Dr. Melody T. McCloud
Copyright © 2011 Dr. Melody T. McCloud. All rights reserved. Any excerpts reproduced from this article should include a hyperlink to this-my original on Psychology Today, with author credit.
