Personal Narrative: A Career As An Obstetrician

Nearly three hundred people filled the tranquil water before me. Children splashed each other in delight, while adults preferred to just relax and float on the surface. However, this tranquil water did not last long, as a familiar noise known as “the buzzer” sounded. The buzzer signals the wave generator to begin producing ten to fifteen-foot-high waves. In this instant, each individual is considered to be at risk for injury and it is my job, as a lifeguard, to watch over and protect them. We are trained to scan in a pattern so that every single person in the water is given detailed attention. When a person begins to struggle, we follow a direct three step procedure. One long whistle, use the emergency stop button to shut off the waves, and …show more content…
In conjunction with being a lifeguard, shadowing osteopathic physicians allowed me to witness applications of this type of approach in medicine. During my time with Dr. Plante, an obstetrician-gynecologist, she discussed how including her holistic approach when treating a patient is crucial in certain cases. One such case was an obese pregnant woman that was also having back issues. By understanding the role of the patient’s weight, spinal positioning, and her given pregnancy, this allowed Dr. Plante to see beyond minor back pain usually associated with pregnancy, to a potential serious issue with her spine. Another aspect of osteopathic medicine I encountered was with Dr. Bowman and his use of osteopathic manipulative therapy within sports medicine. Numerous patients complained of hip or even back issues when arriving and within ten minutes of the appointment, I witnessed them express relief just from him manipulating various areas of their body. By seeing this unique approach to medicine, combined with my experience in holistic treatment, solidified my choice to become an osteopathic