Rewarding moments
By Barbara J. Deal, MD
The most rewarding aspects of my career are the moments when I feel the positive impact that I’ve made in the lives of my patients and their families. This may come in the form of a heartfelt letter, like the one from a father who wrote that our team had "provided care in the truest sense of the word" to his daughter and their family. More often it’s when I see my patients grow into young adults and pursue their dreams.
Cardiology is fascinating, and I love what I do. After all, I have the chance to make a difference in a child’s life every day. Children who have serious heart conditions often require treatment throughout their lives, and the care we deliver must also consider their social and developmental needs.
I am reminded of Paul, whom I first treated years ago for tachycardia, or a rapid heart rate. He needed a pacemaker by the time he was 10 years old. Paul was passionate about playing baseball so we made sure to implant the device in his left arm so as not to interfere with his pitching arm. This allowed him to continue to play ball in a competitive league.
Paul’s ultimate dream was to become a pilot, a vocation I gently suggested he might want to reconsider because of the strict health requirements.
Nonetheless, we helped with his application to flight school by obtaining all of the required tests. We even turned off his pacemaker to demonstrate his condition had improved and the device could be removed. We wished Paul luck, but we were not sure whether the flight school would be as understanding.
At Children’s Memorial, we are guided by the vision that all children deserve the opportunity to reach their greatest potential. We believe that by minimizing their physical limitations, we can help unlock magnificent possibilities for their young lives.
At Children’s Memorial, we are guided by the vision that all children deserve the opportunity to reach their greatest potential.
Just earlier this year, my husband and I were awaiting our early morning flight at O’Hare Airport, when I heard a deep voice behind me exclaim, "Dr. Deal!" I turned, and there he was — Paul, smiling down at me, all grown up and wearing a United Airlines pilot uniform. He had done it!
This tall, healthy young man had made his dream of becoming a pilot come true. I was overcome with pride. Moments like these are priceless and the reason my life’s work is so rewarding.
Children's Memorial Hospital seeks philanthropic funding to enhance its programs and services. As a proud partner of the Children's Miracle Network (CMN), all funds raised in the Chicago area through CMN also benefit Children's Memorial. To find out how your support can help the hospital better serve children and families, please contact the Children's Memorial Foundation at 773.880.4237 or Foundation@childrensmemorial.org.
Last updated December 2008