Life Is Something Like That

3 weeks and the ophthalmology posting has ended. It was definitely a change of air. Having gone through the other postings, I must say it's a rather nice, clean and not-so-stressful posting. All the lecturers and MOs were very good and nice to students. They were very helpful and willing to teach. All in all, the atmosphere was 'nice' (okay, I think I used the word a bit too much, but it really is how I felt about this posting). It just makes me feel compelled to be a part of this environment. Who knows? Maybe. Haha.

So, three weeks for us to learn about the basics. We learnt, and practised looking at the fundus using a direct ophthalmoscope, as well as some other modalities that were used. All the equipment, gadgets, and lenses - they perk my interest. Haha. I wouldn't say things were rushed in this posting, and given how well the posting was organized, we actually had the time and opportunity to study and practice, so that we were able to cover the things that we were supposed to know.

And then there was the Community Eye Service, which in my opinion, was a great programme. Besides helping out the community (by giving some basic eye check), we were also able to practise our skills, especially when it comes to viewing the fundus.

All in all, a great posting!

The event yesterday night was amazing. It was a continuation of the annual Chinese New Year Night in the years before this. These events have always been a wonderful show of performances. Well, this year, they definitely did not fail to surprise us. It's great, words just aren't enough to describe it. You'd have to watch it yourself. If you missed it, perhaps next year? Aha. Bravo to all of them who made it a success. The preparation surely was not easy, but together, they made miracles.

Another 6 weeks have past - and so is the orthopaedics posting. Was it just me, or did anybody else felt the same? That for each posting that we've been through, they were just too short, too packed and too hectic. Especially for this posting. Well, at least for me.

I was assigned to the spine unit for this orthopaedics posting. It was quite alright, except that it could be quite exhausting at times (I think I'd skip the details). Otherwise, it was an interesting posting. We started off with our coordinator telling us that we should just be thinking of becoming an orthopaedic surgeon, for at least these six weeks - yeah, he probably tells that to every batch. The posting was quite organised. We're susceptible to getting lost in this vast medical sea, so a little pinch of organization is always a good thing for us medical students.

After many many hours of preparation in the weeks and months before, the day finally arrived. We had already set up the equipments, chairs and tables the day before, and so this was it. About 30 pregnant mothers came. Some were pregnant for the first time and some had already been pregnant before. Still, what's wrong with a little bit more knowledge, ain't it?

We started with registration and the opening ceremony, as usual. Then, after a breakfast, our class started. First, there was a talk on changes during pregnancy - what to expect and some tips; then the process of labour; and also the changes after giving birth. Aspects of diet were also discussed, as they are important for the nutrition of both the growing baby and mother. There were also representatives who gave talks on amnion donor and stem cells.

Happy Chinese New Year!
Wishing you a happy and prosperous new year.