The Unseen Weight: A Doctor's Struggle Behind the Scrubs

The Unseen Weight: A Doctor's Struggle Behind the Scrubs

I'm a doctor, I work in Nigeria but I'm not superhuman. Every day, I'm faced with the harsh realities of our healthcare system. Overcrowded wards, inadequate equipment, and power outages are just a few of the challenges I face. But it's not just about the physical environment – it's the emotional toll of watching patients suffer, of seeing families struggle, and of feeling like I'm not doing enough.

The emergency room is a different story altogether. It's a whirlwind of chaos, where every second counts. I see patients come in with life-threatening conditions – severe injuries from accidents, critical illnesses that require immediate attention. The young and old, male and female – no one is spared. I've seen it all – from tragic accidents that take lives to medical emergencies that push me to my limits.

Sometimes, despite my best efforts, patients don't make it. The feeling of helplessness is overwhelming. I remember the countless times I've had to deliver devastating news to families, watching them crumble under the weight of grief. It's a pain that never gets easier.

Explaining cases with poor prognosis is another challenge. I have to find the right words to convey the gravity of the situation without crushing hope. It's a delicate balance between honesty and compassion. I've seen families struggle to come to terms with the reality of their loved one's condition, and it's heartbreaking.

The weight of responsibility is crushing at times. I'm constantly worried about making mistakes, about not being able to save a life. And when patients or their families question my decisions, it feels like they're questioning my humanity. They don't see the long hours, the sleepless nights, the endless stress.

I'm not alone in this struggle. Many of my colleagues feel the same way. We're not just doctors – we're human beings, with limits and emotions. We're doing our best with what we have, but it's often not enough.

I wish people could see beyond the white coat and understand what we go through. I wish they could see the toll this job takes on us, the weight of responsibility, the constant stress.

But even in the midst of all this, I remain hopeful. I believe that if we work together – doctors, patients, families, and policymakers – we can create a better healthcare system for all Nigerians. A system that's more compassionate, more efficient, and more effective.

Until then, I'll keep doing what I do best – caring for my patients, advocating for their needs, and pushing for a better future for our healthcare system.