Gone

A few weeks back, i received a shocking news that one of my Paeds lecturers, has left us forever. She died due to complications of cancer. I am not sure which one it was but probably due to Krukenberg Tumour, since she had GI symptoms and some of gynaecological complaints. It is an aggressive cancer with poor diagnosis. I was already in Brunei that time and i missed the opportunity to visit her while she was in the ICU in Selayang Hospital.

The last time i met her was in Paediatric posting, which happened to be my last posting as a medical student. I did not actually have her as my Paeds supervisor but she did give us a briefing on the posting. This was way back in May. she was as cheerful, funny as motivated as always. Noone would have guessed that she would be leaving us 3 months later, forever.

She was an inspiration for us all. She was one of the doctors who sacrificed her own health just for the sake of her patients as well as her students. A few months before she experienced this cancer symptoms, she was already in a wheelchair due to knee trauma. Despite being told by the specialist to take MC and rest at home, she still went to the hospital, cut short of her holidays and did her rounds as well as teaching the students. "Who will take care of my medical officers and even teach them if i were away?", she said. That is a quality that is rare and lacking in doctors nowadays. The Passion, to teach and care.

Today, i actually dreamt of her. I had a phone call from her, advicing me to be a good houseman as well as reminding me that the Viva questions are no longer as those of Medical school. I could not understand the latter but what i could interpret from this dream is that, i should not be worried of entering housemanship since i have many supports around me. I should also remember her, whenever i am faced with troubles or hurdles throughout my career.

To Allahyarhamah Dr Norrashidah, May You Be Placed Amongst The Mukmins. Thank You For All Your Words of Wisdoms and Encouragement. You are a precious gem, and you will surely be missed. Al-Fatihah

Her last words for medical personnels can be read here.

http://shidmikegambit.blogspot.com/