Pinoy MD

We had the opportunity to meet Dr. Willie T. Ong, the author of the famous Medicine BLUE BOOK today. FYI, almost all medical clerks, interns and physicians have this book on hand. I must say that this book helped me through the endless and nerve-wrecking medical grand rounds. It's so useful and handy that until now, we still use it in our practice.

M.I.N.D is an advocacy and support group for Filipino doctors. We attended a talk about how physicians can improve the quality of healthcare in our country. Honestly, I decided to attend just to get the autographed copy of the book. I thought I was attending an activist meeting. I was wrong. The topics discussed included relevant issues like the MD to RN phenomenon, Brain-drain and Medical Malpractice bill. I must admit that the issue on Brain-drain struck me. With all our plans layed out and in the process of execution, I feel a little guilty about leaving the country. But who can blame a person who only wants to seek a better life? We have been given a chance to practice our profession in a more profitable environment and not everyone is fortunate enough to come across such opportunity. Don't get me wrong. We're not all about the money. We just want to save for our future. When the time is right, we can go back for our residency training without having to worry about the God-foresaken salary. If only more people would understand the plight of Filipino doctors...
Just to shed some light, here's an article that I stumbled upon. Please take time to read it!

Malpractice Issue: A Tough Fight Ahead
By Willie T. Ong, MD

Get ready for war.On the red corner, insurance groups and legislators have made a head start in pushing for several malpractice bills in the Senate. A reliable source has confirmed the hiring of a top lobby group to have these bills approved as soon as possible.On the blue corner, the Philippine Medical Association, led by its president Dr. Bu Castro, has initiated the “Total Recall” project, which asks for the withdrawal of all these bills. The PMA has met with its component associations in charting the battle plan.If you expect an even fight, think again. The multi-million funding of the insurance groups crushes the cash-strapped medical profession in the first round. Estimates show that the insurance groups stand to gain three billion pesos every year. This is from the 60,000 practicing doctors who will have to pay Php 50,000 yearly for malpractice insurance. Thus, it will not come as a surprise if they invest millions in lobby money to pass these bills.For those unaware, not one but five malpractice-related bills are pending in the Senate. Any one of which could spell doom for doctors and healthcare alike. Senator Serge Osmena’s Senate Bill (SB)1720 is self-explanatory: “An Act to protect against medical malpractice, punishing the malpractice of any medical practitioner and requiring them to secure malpractice insurance.” Other controversial bills are Senator Osmena’s SB-337, Senator Manuel Villar’s SB-588 and SB-743, and Senator Juan Flavier’s SB-03.The odds are stacked up against the doctors as prominent media personalities continue with their anti-doctor campaign. And for the defense, can the Philippine Medical Association put up a decent fight?

Implications of Malpractice Bills To The PatientAccording to the PMA president, the ill effects of malpractice bills are already well documented. “First, the cost of healthcare will rise dramatically as doctors practice ‘defensive medicine.’ More and more expensive laboratory test will be requested not for patient’s benefit but to protect the doctor from lawsuits.“Second, surgeons will refuse to operate on high-risk cases. No one will operate on serious but potentially curable cases for fear of lawsuits.“Third, all doctors will be forced to obtain malpractice insurance. This will force many doctors to find another profession or leave for abroad. Eighty-nine percent of doctors cannot afford malpractice insurance.“Fourth, there will be less and less medical missions, because doctors can be sued for treating charity cases.“In short, these Malpractice Bills are anti-poor and anti-patient. The poor can no longer get free health care from medical and surgical missions all over the country. As more and more doctors leave the country or retire early, our health care system will collapse. Thousands of poor people will die.”Dr. Bu Castro has many plans, all of which sound good but without adequate money and other doctor’s support, it may be impossible to accomplish. If for nothing else, the malpractice issue should awaken slumbering doctors from their apathy and rally around their cause.

Alive Again

It's good to be back and blogging again. The past week was so dreary and stagnating... I'm glad it's over! My mom gave me the cold shoulder for some time. That's the longest 2 weeks of my life. I'm not sure if I lost some weight. I couldn't eat dinner properly and enjoy the food because the silence was deafening. Imagine...silent movie.
Finally, she gave up. I missed my mom tremendously. I missed sharing the good news with her. I wanted to tell her that the company name we applied for at Papua New Gueinea got approved already and our application to the medical board is being processed already. She's always the first person I talk to about this. Yesterday, she decided to break her silence. A simple peace offering from her told me what I needed to know. Whew! I thought it would never end. Rejoice!!!

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I attended some seminars sponsored by a pharmaceutical company and The Philippine Anti-Aging Medical Society (PAAMS) this week. All about vanity and fitness. I was contemplating on penetrating the world of dermatology. I never had the opportunity to affirm my calling into this field of medicine...until now. I got my groove back! Thanks to our friend, Dr. Sarah Barba. She introduced the famous Dr. Joel Mendez to us...the man who started it all. I learned some anti-aging techniques...from botox to the mesotherapy popularized by celebrities. I also saw how some dermatologists look like. My, oh my! I was expecting a lot! I've streotyped them to be the most appealing if not more physically presentable among doctors. I just believe that you should practice what you preach. If its beauty that you're selling, i guess it's only proper to present yourself that way. The least they can do is to take care of their skin. I know I'm being superficial but isn't dermatology also just skin deep? Anyway, I would have gone into training if not for our plan to vanquish the country. After our quest for greener pastures is done, give me at least 3 years for this, I'd definitely pursue a career in dermatology. Wait for me.

While taking a break during the seminar, I took my camera out for some shots. I was on the roofdeck of a building trying to find a nice view or an interesting element when a call center employee made a comment. She bluntly said that I was weird. Darling, I would rather be described as eccentric. What's wrong with photography? Nasty girl!

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The knots on my back are killing me. All this tension took a toll on me, the result... more MPS (myofascial pain syndrome). A massage would be nice at this point.

To release some pressure, I did what I do best...shopping, eating and movies! I'm feeling much better now!

The night was still young so we attempted to go to baywalk for the 1st time. Despite the drizzle, we went for a stroll. The rain was unforgiving and poured on us. I was already thinking of what to order. Oh well, another nightlife cut short. At least, I can sleep better now.

Barely Breathing

Just like a volcano that's ready to explode, i can't help but but send smoke signals to warn the people around me. It's just how I am.
I do things my way in my own time. Nobody messes up with that. I'm not inflexible. I just want things planned ahead of time. I'm tired of pleasing everybody. That seems to be an impossible thing to do.
Looking back I wonder, why did my mom prefer to accompany the balikbayans instead of spending time with me on the eve of my wedding? Among all nights, it was such a lonely evening. The once in a lifetime experience was just brushed aside. Is their life more important than mine? I remember crying really hard. Imagine me, the only child, spending my last day as a bachelorette alone. Do I deserve less love and attention just because I live a financially comfortable life? While I was walking down the aisle, I wept because I was trying to spill all the bad feelings I have bottled up inside...not because I'm letting go of my past life. I cried because I know that my dad has so much love for me and regrets the time that was lost wandering with the people he couldn't care less. I sure know how to cry. It's one of the things I'm so used to doing. When you spent most of your life in solitude, nobody to talk to, no one to share the burden with...you'd know how good it is to shout! to cry!
Why do I always have to take the fall and suck up the faults I didn't do? Do I always have to make excuses for other people's shortcomings just to save their ass? I'm tired. I'm not a saint like my mom. I am nothing like her. Aside from the family resemblance, we have nothing in common. I'm not saying that she's not a good mother. It's an injustice to say that. She's selfless and giving. Things I can never measure up to. I don't want to be selfless... I want to love myself. Giving is an option and not an obligation. You may think I'm narrowminded. Sure, everybody can say that...but they never took the time to look at things from my stand point. Oh...the things I did just to keep this family together. No one will know that. We're not perfect but I don't want to think that we're broken. There's time to heal and time to just stand still.
For now... I may just be the burden that's too heavy to carry. Mom's greatest enemy. She might be feeling this way. I can't blame her. I don't give her everything that she wants of me. Someday, she'll also know that I'm the only one that's left. I love you, mom! From one bitch to another.

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I got this forwarded message from my sister-in-law. It pretty much sums up what I believe in. Thanks, Celyn.

Bitchology
" When I stand up for myself and my beliefs, they call me a bitch. When I stand up for those I love, they call me a bitch. When I speak my mind, think my own thoughts or do things my own way, they call me a bitch. Being a bitch means I won't compromise what's in my heart. It means I live my life MY way. It means I won't allow anyone to step on me. When I refuse to tolerate injustice and speak against it, I am defined as a bitch. The same thing happens when I take time for myself instead of being everyone's maid. It means I have the courage and strength to allow myself to be who I truly am and won't become anyone else's idea of what they think I "should" be. I am outspoken, opinionated and determined. I want what I want and there is nothing wrong with that! So try to stomp on me, try to douse my inner flame, try to squash every ounce of beauty I hold within me. You won't succeed. And if that makes me a bitch, so be it. I embrace the title and am proud to bear it !!!! '"
- Anonymous

Running Years

It's my birthday! My 30th! Oh my, oh my, only one year to go before the calendar rejects my age.
It's been a busy day, running all around doing things for other people. Never really had time to celebrate on my own.

The day before...
Maybe God wanted to give me a gift. He sent us a lot of patients for circumcision this week. Thank you Lord! At least, I won't be spending this day empty handed. Being a doctor is not really a business as some may think of it. I still hold on to the belief that it is a calling... to serve and to heal. The monetary matter is just a tiny reward. Everyday, I learn something new. I get to experience first hand the things that I was exposed to only in books. It feels great to conquer your fears. Suddenly, the vagueness of it all just disappears.

Moving on... We fetched my Tita at the Airport. Looked for every blonde lady that came out. Finally, we saw her, brought her home, she distributed the pasalubongs, and luckily, they remembered my birthday. Sigh. I was about to put to test the Pitiful face I've been practicing for days.
As predicted, I got the bulk of the pasalubongs. Brought home a handful of chocolates! My cousins need not argue with this. I'm the eldest, that's why! 2:00AM

We attended the Golden Wedding Anniversary of my dad's bestfriend. Dad stood as one of their principal sponsor. I was moved...just to see all their children gather up and prepare for this event. An occassion such as this is so rare. We were fortunate to take witness. 50 years of love, fidelity and all the things in between. Imagine, such devotion! I can only wish for something like that in the future. If we're lucky enough, I'd love to go though with the same chaos and euphoria as I did when we got married...minus the expenses. 7:00PM

So there goes my day...
I'm sure next year will bring something different, something special. Can't wait!

Thirty Series

For my Upcoming Birthday, Here's my List of 30 Things

Things About Me
1. I'm an only child
2. Unwittingly used suntan lotion instead of sunblock when I was younger and didn't
know the difference between the two Coppertone's
3. The kid that others used to bully around
4. The Dancing diva during my pre-school years
5. Former ballerina/pianist
6. Had a secretary with me to school when I was in grade 1
7. Sent to the principal's office for not doing my homework
8. Had a head surgery for Hemangioma when I was 13
9. Collector of sorts (bags, shoes, watches, beany babies, etc)
10. Had 10 dogs (Lucky-mutt, Sarsi-Papillon, Brownie-Poodle, Michelle- Poodle,
Poochie-Toy Terrier, Whity & Fluffy- Japanese Spitz, Mico-Mutt, Puffy- Maltese,
Basti-Pug)
11. Always won for the "Linggo ng Wika" slogan-making contest in HS
12. Member of my HS choir (STC Chorale)
13. Entered my school project in Economics to the Interschool Poster-making contest.
Topic:"Consumerism and Nature"...I won 3rd place! My trophy is still being
displayed in the School Library.
14. Spent most Sundays at Quad Mall (presently Glorietta) and Greenbelt
15. Had my first taste of Hamburger at Mc Donald's
16. Allergic to shrimps/prawns
17. Had birthday parties until 13 years old
18. Bought a book summary of Theodor Dostoyevsky's novel to read for my term paper
(I don't even know if I spelled the author's name right)
19. English Literature is my weakest subject in HS
20. Hate Imitators!
21. Frustrated Interior Designer
22. I designed most of the gowns I wore in the past (prom, santacruzan, debut,
pageants, even the gowns my entourage wore during my wedding)
23. Cry Baby... I get so emotional when I watch TV/movies. Even National Geographic
can make me spill some tears.
24. Spoiled and Pampered
25. My yaya's been with me for half my life
26. I don't want to drive. I tried...but I'm really short tempered when it comes to
driving.
27. Jayson calls me the MMDA chairwoman. I hate reckless drivers, traffic violators
and inconsiderate pedestrians.
28. Daddy's Girl and Mommy's Pet... for short, Balingbing!
29. Couch Potato. I can stay in bed all day.
30. I have a hard time opening up to other people

Favorite Food and Drinks
1. KFC's fried chicken- original Recipe
2. Macaroni and Cheese from Kenny Rogers
3. Hot Fudge Sundae from Mc Do
4. Spaghetti from Pancake House
5. Pasta Marinara from Dulcinea
6. Chicken Teriyaki from Teriyaki Boy
7. Shrimp and Mushroom Dumplings from Causeway
8. Seafood Fried Noodles from Wah Yuen
9. Lomi from Chinatown's Best Food
10. Sbarro's Baked Ziti
11. Mc Chicken burger
12. Taco from Pancake House
13. Crabstick and Celery Mayo Sandwich from Delifrance
14. Hamburger Steak from French Baker
15. Pasta Arrabiata from Segafredo
16. Caramel Macchiato from Starbucks
17. Dark Chocolate Bar from Meiji
18. Ham and Cheese Croissant from Cinnabon
19. Bittersweet Chocolate Chip Cookie from Mrs. Fields
20. Steamed Fish and Garlic from Big Buddha
21. Miso Soup from Sushi-ya
22. Carbonara - My Own
23. Meatlover's Pizza from Yellow Cab
24. Jumbo Chilly Cheese Dog from Burger Machine
25. Chicken Kebab from Cafe Mediterranean
26. Chicken Stew Pattie from Jamaican Pattie
27. Ebi Tempura from Tokyo Tokyo
28. Chicken Afritada
29. Lengua in Mushroom Sauce
30. Can't do without COKE!!!

Things I Want To Do
1. Surf the Internet
2. Hit the Beach
3. Road Trips
4. Cook Pasta
5. Scrapbooking
6. Photography
7. Watch Reality Shows
8. Try on shoes
9. Shopping
10. Use the Photo Editor
11. Cuddle my dog, Basti
12. Having Midnight Snacks
13. Experiment with my Hairstyle
14. Crafting
15. Take Quizzes
16. Buy Fashion Magazines
17. Eat Fast Food
18. Sketch Gowns
19. Visit the Petshop
20. Going to Amusement Parks
21. Ride the Rollercoaster
22. Be photographed
23. Start a trend
24. Maintain a Dollar account
25. Be a dermatologist
26. Invest in Real Estate
27. Travel the world
28. Have 3 kids
29. Maintain a slim figure
30. Learn to cook

Banderitas

The heat is on! Bring out the fans and umbrellas! Took another trip to the countryside. Summer promises to fool the disenchanted traveler. I even had Jayson ride the "padyak" for the first time. One weekend, two more towns have been conquered.




What makes a Fiesta? The overwhelming amount of food, dessert, gallons of beer, and the hospitality of town dwellers seem unreal when you think about the socio-economic situation. Well, who cares right about now? Men having beer bellies from the endless drinking and I'm growing one too from consuming...without the beer, of course! Everyone's jovial and satisfied even just for a moment.

Frenzy Fright

Good 'ol Capampangan delicasies.
It's fiesta time once again. Every year when I was still young, my dad and I would go back to his hometown in Lubao. I remember riding the squiggly Ferri's wheel, lining up just to experience the nauseating Octopus and placing my bet at the Sakla. Oh, the good times... those were the days.
Revisiting, I looked for the lavishly decorated streets, the Peria, the Marching Bands and everything that comes to mind when you say Fiesta. The town was peaceful, no blowing horns, no traffic! At last, we reached our destination! The best thing about it is the part where we eat the sumptuous feast. Callos, Arroz Valenciana, Kare-kare, Lengua...names synonymous to Capampangan cooking.

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On a sad note, my wedding album got ruined today. I brought it to my relatives in the province for them to see. Unfortunately, the second I took my eyes off it, the disaster happened. There it is, the pages stained and crumpled.

Scene: Mom and Tita turning the pages...

Mom: Naku! Ano ito?

Leslie: Anong ano? Patingin nga! P*****ina! Sinong tarantado gumawa nito?

Tita: Parang tinignan yan nung mga anak nung bisita kanina. Ano ba to, Coke?

Leslie: Sinong mga bata yan? Papatayin ko sila! Anak ng puta! Asan na yang mga yan?

Pagbabayarin ko sila! Di ba nila alam kung ano halaga nito!

Mommy: Baka pwede pa remedyuhan to. Tanong mo kay Mimi!

Leslie: Remedyo? Eh namantsahan na nga yung mga pictures eh. Mabuti naman at nagtira pa

sila! Pu*******na talaga! Lagot ako kay Jayson nito! Mga hampas lupa! Mimi! Paano

na 'to? Huhuhu.

I don't know what to do! Half crazy, half shocked, thinking...it'll be very costly to have another one made. I despise those provincial people who did this to my precious album!!! I can't stop cursing! I hope they don't experience the joys of getting married. Waaaaaaahhhhhhhh!

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Are you pregnant? Ive been asked this question a couple of times today. Even though that I know thay they mean well, I can't help but feel down. Imagine, even my 17 y.o niece didn't have a problem conceiving! Oh well, this too shall pass. I'll have mine in God's time.

It's in the Bag

I packed my things, bought plastic bags, had my money changed to smaller bills...Garage Sale!
This was an entirely different experience for my husband and I, first time. We got up early and loaded the car with things I hoped would not return back home.
It was a hot day! Even with the tents up, I was dripping in sweat which I don't often secrete profusely. Good thing, we had Mia(Mangahas) and her family to share the tent with. The boredom was lessened to a point.
I used to drop by garage sales when I'm in the US and I get to buy a lot for my cousins. Back here, I guess people are not used to it. The narrowminded would think that we're shameless and needy. Imagine, selling your personal stuff for such a small price. My dad didn't approve of my eagerness to join the sale. He's too proud for that! I did it anyway!
We didn't get to sell a lot but we did sell some big items. Many factors played a part: the gate was not openned so the potential buyers may have shyed away from ringing the doorbell just to get in; the heat was intense; there were only a couple of people who came, they're probably parochials; the items I was selling didn't fit some potential buyers because I'm a size XS-M for clothes and 5 1/2-6 for footwear; and the price is not right!
I'm bad at selling things. I'm a better shopper at that. I get frustrated and sorry for my things when the customers would lower the price to something ridiculous, say, minus 80% of the cost. Imagine, this lady was bargaining with me for an item priced at P500 for P100. That's robbery! I would rather keep my stuff. I conditioned myself to stay in the tent and not roam around. Not that I'm anti-social, I just didn't want to buy more stuff that I don't really need and would regret buying in the end.

(L-R: took a moment to pose while arranging the things on sale; J and Maan can't wait to leave the place ; all packed-up and ready to go, what's for lunch)

So after staying for 3 hours, we packed our things and headed-off to eat at Pancake house, where else? Only burger steak can ease my hungerpangs. Good thing we earned more than what we have spent.
Overall, I think we did good. I'd do it again if the opportunity arises.