"I Am A Lasallian Doctor..."

Last night, I attended the testimonial rites for the board passers of my alma mater's during the Physician Licensure Exams. Some of the board passers were former batchmates who took the boards last February. However, it was mostly for Class 2007, the second batch to graduate from the only College of Medicine in Negros Island: University of Saint La Salle College of Medicine. During the testimonial rites, attended by no less than the University Chancellor Bro. Ray Suplido, FSC, I was given the opportunity to speak in behalf of the pioneer batch. During my speech, I was able to share to those present the whereabouts of my batchmates, but most especially of the four of us who became Doctors to the Barrios. At the end of my speech, I presented a video presentation which I edited featuring the activities of the four DTTBs of Class 2006: Marc, Leah, Celna and Me. During the closing remarks of Dr. Jochico, the Vice-Chancellor of Academics, she asked me to come up front where I received a small token, which was given to the new physicians earlier that night. It was actually a small pen-holder, with the words: I am a Lasallian Doctor, Live Jesus in our hearts Forever. While they claimed to have been inspired and touched by my presentation, in reality, it was I who were touched and inspired by their words of encouragement. All the while, I thought I made the wrong decision when I chose to become a Doctor to the Barrio. Last night, it was as if I was hearing words of affirmation from above, telling me that I am in the right place and in the right time.

I could have been a good resident, perhaps. But like what I've always believed, "God draws straight in crooked lines". Perhaps it was my time to serve first. Somehow, it was also an opportunity for me to share to the "folks in the city" what it really is to be a DTTB. My objective was to portray a DTTB who is at equal footing with a resident. Both are equally important and equally opportune to do great. Imagine what great sacrifice a person would give, knowing how little his salary is just to bear 3 years or more of training and sleepless nights just to become a competent specialist. Imagine also what great sacrifice a person would give, knowing how risky his job is whenever deployed in far-flung areas, away from the usual comforts of life, just to serve at least 2 years of being a DTTB. Both, as I have said, equally worth-acknowledging.

I was inspired last night and I went home at peace with myself. Whatever doubts I had in the past, they were all swept away. In fact, I am all the more excited to do things for my community. I am hopeful of better things to come and although the challenges are tough, I am confident that I can overcome all, if not most of them.

In fact, the pressure is much heavier now, considering that last night I was being reminded of who I am: a Lasallian doctor. With this affirmation of identity comes the full awareness of responsibilities expected of my profession. It can be very overwhelming, but with Faith in God, guided by Service, with one lasallian Community, all things are possible.