Friday, December 23, 2011

The Real Reason, On CBC Today

When I am asked the reason I chose medicine, I almost never tell the truth. I feel a little protective of the real reason and how it might be perceived by others, so I usually reveal some of my less sentimental and more cerebral motivations for becoming a doctor.

But, when given the opportunity to create a small radio piece about my grandad and how he continues to medically inspire me, I happily got to work.

I know it is Christmas Eve, but if you need a half hour break from the chaos, have a listen to a story that is very close to my heart.  Tune into CBC's national radio show, White Coat, Black Art today, or go to the website and stream it at your leisure.

Hope everyone is having a wonderful start to their holiday!

Merry Christmas and happy holidays.  Stay safe, keep warm.



8 comments:

Cara said...

Merry Christmas Erin... what a neat program. It was nice to hear your voice, and your grandfather's voice sounded so warm and genuine... it must have been a gift to learn from him as a med student. What a legacy to come from, you are proud of that and you should be!
Our moments of inspiration come when they are needed. Self-Doubt doesn't mean we're failing, just that we're human. Keep on - you're an inspiration to me!

Albinoblackbear said...

Thank you, Cara, for your very kind words and encouragement!

It was a very special opportunity given to me by Dr. Goldman (and his producer Kent Hoffman)to tell this story.

It is a gift! I was able to listen to one of the lectures yesterday while making dinner. I sort of pretended he was just talking to me while I peeled butternut squash. :)

Anonymous said...

How cool! That was a great program and your grandfather is a superb hero to have! I still have a hard time figuring out my inspiration so I might live a little bit vicariously through you.

Beach Bum said...

What a great piece! Thanks for sharing your grandfather's voice with us, and for sharing a bit of yourself as well. You sound great! I listened to your previous piece as well. Way to represent the Canadian medical diaspora.

Albinoblackbear said...

JOtte--Glad you enjoyed it and that he continues to inspire others (even vicariously!) I am sure it will not be long before you find a hero. :)

BB--Thank you, glad you enjoyed it. It was a really nice to have the opportunity to share it on CBC (Grandad's favorite radio station!)

Penelope said...

I really enjoyed your segment on the CBC. Your grandfather sounded like a wonderful teacher.

I know that his lectures must be very personal to you, but I wonder if you would ever consider making them available as a podcast?

His voice was so caring, and the way he encouraged questions from his students was so refreshing. I wanted to transport myself into his classroom and just listen to more.

Thanks so much for sharing this special part of your life.

Albinoblackbear said...

Penelope--That is a *great* idea! The thought hadn't even crossed my mind but YES! Once I have pieced all the tapes together I'll definitely try to figure out a way to podcast them.

It'd be a huge treat for me to share them with an interested audience.

Thanks so much for suggesting that--I'll keep you posted on the project. :) I am glad to hear you enjoyed the piece.

I certainly felt the same way as you, wanting to transport myself back in time and space to be one of the students sitting in that room.

Ann-Marie said...

Loved it, Erin - what a tear jerker! You are very well spoken.
Merry Christmas and happy new year! Miss you girl.
amg.