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emerged from that case a changed man: My respect for my Indian sur-
gical colleagues rose meteorically. More importantly, my appreciation
for my surgical life will never be the same. Lessons learned:
1. Stop complaining. When I have a bad hair day at my surgicenter, I
now pause and reflect on how blessed I am to be in a hyper-efficient,
air-conditioned and squeaky-clean facility. If the latest newfangled
suture passer breaks, I will remember that I just asked for a second
version of an instrument that my Indian colleagues will likely never
behold.
2. Stay positive. If a case seems challenging, I remember that my
Indian brethren are faced with similar pathology, but without the sup-
port staff, hypotensive anesthesia, thermal ablation and 'Nano pass-
ing' instruments. If my Indian colleagues can find a way to get the job
done, so can I.
3. Give back. My new friends from Mumbai would give anything to
spend time in America to learn. We waste equipment daily that would
be revered in underdeveloped countries.
4. Count your blessings. When OR delays, equipment issues or schedul-
ing conflicts ensue, remember on your drive home to your suburban,
garage laden, carpeted, well watered and manicured dwelling, that we
live in the most endowed country in the world.
We've got it good
Whenever I get a case bumped, an insurance denial, a delayed start or
even a subpoena, I toast my Indian brothers and sisters with a glass of
non-bottled water. Life is good here. OSM
C U T T I N G R E M A R K S
Dr. Kelly (johndak4@gmail.com) is an orthopedic surgeon/sports-
shoulder specialist who practices in Philadelphia, Pa.
