A highly respected orthopedist and mentor, Charlie, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer after finding a lump in his stomach. Despite having access to a new procedure that could have tripled his five-year survival odds, Charlie chose not to undergo treatment. Instead, he focused on spending time with his family and improving his quality of life.
Charlie's decision is not unique among medical professionals. According to Dr. Kevin Muriu, a general practitioner at Primecare Health Services, doctors tend to approach their own mortality with serenity, knowing exactly what to expect and having access to various medical care options. However, they often choose to forego aggressive treatments.
Dr. Muriu explains that doctors, like anyone else, experience grief when faced with devastating news about their health. Nevertheless, their knowledge of diseases, treatment options, and potential outcomes enables them to prepare themselves for the end of life. Many doctors invest in medical insurance to avoid leaving their families with significant financial burdens.
The phenomenon of "futile care" is also a concern among medical professionals. This occurs when doctors administer extensive treatments to gravely ill patients, often resulting in misery and unnecessary suffering. The high costs of such care can be overwhelming, with daily expenses reaching tens of thousands of shillings.
Studies have shown that hospice care, which prioritizes comfort and dignity over curative treatments, can provide patients with better final days. In some cases, people receiving hospice care have been found to live longer than those pursuing active cures.
A personal experience illustrates this approach. The author's cousin, Torch, was diagnosed with lung cancer that had spread to his brain. After learning that aggressive treatment would only prolong his life by a few months, Torch opted against it. Instead, he focused on enjoying his remaining time with family and friends, ultimately passing away peacefully.
This mindset is shared by many doctors, who recognize the limitations of modern medicine and the importance of quality over quantity of life. As one doctor notes, they tend to "go gently" when faced with their own mortality, often choosing to avoid heroic measures and instead prioritize comfort and dignity.
