REFLECTIONS : An Identity Crisis
by TERESITA BACANI-OROPILLA , MD
Many still call me “ Doc .”
My mail is addressed to “ Name , MD .”
When out in public or social gatherings with people I know , I am recognized as the one who took care of them or their kin , or wrote a letter of recommendation to be admitted to medical school or taught them well .
Now in my ninth decade of life , because of orthopedic issues I live in an assisted living facility in a graduated complex . Next to it is the rehab section for those hospitalized for an illness or a fall that temporarily required a higher level of nursing attention . Next is the nursing section for those needing permanent care . And last is a section for memory care if you are unfortunate enough to actually “ lose your mind .”
Daily I see my co-residents and recognize their frailty , deficiencies and prognosis , just as I know mine . Yet good fortune has left me with wits and memory intact ( except for names ?!). I realize in time , I will go the route the others went .
In my younger retirement days , many happy plans got fulfilled : visiting family members and friends and places where I ’ d practiced . I saw places famous in history and others of keen interest . I relished the successes and shared in the joyful accomplishments of my children and grandchildren . I attended medical meetings to keep abreast of new concepts and meet old friends and colleagues and enjoy the younger generations of physicians who have taken my place .
I put up a fund which I thought might sustain me in old age , hoping I might not outlive it ! Oh yes ! Even planning what will be done when planning days are over is needed : want an imposing mausoleum ? A historical memorial plaque , or a plain plot in the ground ?
In looking back , were you happy with your life ? Fulfilled as a person ? After being called “ Doc ” for more than 65 years , are you still a doc ?
“ Yes , in my heart !” Dr . Bacani-Oropilla is a retired pediatrician and psychiatrist .
22 LOUISVILLE MEDICINE