The rustic allure of "Café Luminous" had a particular way of drawing in both regulars and newcomers, its aromatic blends of coffee promising a comforting embrace. On this particular afternoon, as the rain pattered softly against the window panes, Dr. Ezikiel stepped inside, seeking refuge and his usual espresso.
It had only been a week since he'd last met Dr. Diane. As he awaited his order, he idly scanned the shop's interior, his gaze catching a familiar silhouette. There, amidst the backdrop of mahogany shelves lined with vintage books, sat Diane. She was engrossed, her expression a mix of concentration and concern, her eyes shifting rapidly between her notes and an open textbook.
Dr.Ezikiel hadn't planned on this serendipitous encounter, but seeing her so deep in thought, he felt an instinctive pull to reconnect. Dr. Ezikiel took a moment to compose himself, then made his way towards Dr. Diane's table.
As he approached, the soft chime of his shoes against the wooden floor drew her attention upwards.
"Doc Di," he greeted with a warm smile, "It's a surprise seeing you here."
She looked up, momentarily startled, and then her features relaxed into recognition. "Doc Ezikiel! It really has been a week of unexpected meetings," she replied, though her tired eyes betrayed the weight she felt.
Dr. Ezikiel, picking up on the subdued tone of Dr.Diane's voice, paused for a moment, carefully considering his words. The ambient sounds of the café seemed to quieten as he leaned in slightly, offering his full attention.
"Doc Di," he began gently, his eyes searching hers, "I can't help but feel there's something more weighing on your mind than just the exams. Is everything alright?"
She hesitated, her gaze drifting towards the window, where raindrops were tracing patterns down the glass. Dr. Diane's fingers subconsciously traced the rim of her coffee cup as she mustered the courage to speak.
"It's my grandmother," she finally whispered, her voice laden with pain.
"She's not well, Doc. The thought of her in that condition... paralyzed me. Every time I try to dive into my studies, my mind is consumed with worry about her."
Dr. Ezikiel, sensing the depth of her distress, listened intently, his eyes reflecting genuine concern.
"I can't even begin to imagine how tough this must be for you," he began gently.
"The balance between personal life and professional aspirations can be an incredibly challenging one."
Dr.Diane nodded, her eyes glistening with tears. "She's my anchor, my guiding light. The idea of moving forward without her steadfast presence feels... overwhelming."
Dr. Ezikiel took a moment, thinking carefully before he spoke. "Doc, sometimes in our darkest moments, we find unexpected sources of strength and support. You're clearly passionate about your path in oral surgery, and while it's absolutely okay to feel lost and overwhelmed now, remember you don't have to navigate this journey alone."
Dr.Diane looked at him questioningly. He continued,
"There's a mentorship group I'm a part of. It's designed specifically for aspiring oral surgeons. Beyond just academic support, it's a community. We've all faced our unique challenges, and together, we provide both moral and academic support to each other."
Her interest piqued, Dr. Diane asked, "How can a mentorship group help in my situation?"
Dr.Ezikiel smiled gently, "While our primary focus is on aiding academic growth and preparing for the professional world, the essence of the group is connection. We hold mock interviews, share invaluable resources, and, most importantly, lean on each other for support in times of distress. In our group, we remind each other of the bigger picture, especially when life's storms make it blurry."
Dr. Diane took a deep breath, absorbing his words. "I never imagined there'd be a community that could understand both my professional aspirations and personal challenges."
Dr. Ezikiel reached across the table, offering a comforting hand. "Life's unpredictable, Diane. But with the right support system, we can weather any storm. Let me introduce you to the group. They might just be the beacon you need right now."
Feeling a mixture of gratitude and hope, Dr. Diane nodded,
"Thank you, Doc Ezikiel. I think I'd like that."
The weeks leading up to the entrance exam were a whirlwind for Dr. Diane. The mentorship group became her lifeline. They met frequently, sometimes in the quiet corners of libraries and at other times in cozy coffee shops where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee complemented their intense discussions.
Dr. Alexander, a member of the group with a penchant for cracking the most challenging of problems, took it upon himself to run Dr. Diane through the trickiest of mock tests.
He even asked about clinical cases that Doc Diane needs to answer of what could be the possible treatment and who to work with.
Dr. Alexander began, "Let's imagine a 25-year-old patient who comes in with a chief complaint of severe crowding in the lower anterior region and a noticeable midline shift in the upper arch. The patient is interested in an aesthetic and functional solution. Given these parameters, how would you approach this case, especially if you had to collaborate with an orthodontist?"
Dr. Diane took a moment, gathering her thoughts.
"Firstly," she began, "a thorough clinical examination and radiographic assessment would be necessary. This would include panoramic and cephalometric X-rays to understand the skeletal relationships and tooth positions."
Dr. Alexander nodded, scribbling down some notes.
"Given the age of the patient and the severity of crowding," Dr. Diane continued,
"I would suggest a combined approach of orthodontic treatment followed by possible restorative or surgical procedures if required. The orthodontist would play a critical role in aligning the teeth, correcting the midline, and creating space if extractions are necessary."
"And how would you ensure effective collaboration with the orthodontist?" Dr. Alexander probed
Dr. Diane replied, "Clear communication is vital. I'd establish regular joint consultations to assess progress, address concerns, and ensure our treatment goals align. This will allow us to create a comprehensive and phased treatment plan tailored to the patient's needs."
Dr. Alexander, visibly impressed, concluded, "Very well articulated, Dr. Diane. Collaboration between specialists ensures holistic patient care. It's essential to understand and appreciate the roles each plays in a patient's treatment journey. Good job."
Dr. Natasha, another member, was a wizard with textbooks. She introduced Dr.Diane to mind maps, diagrams, and mnemonic devices, turning vast information chunks into memorable visuals.
With their support, Diane aced her entrance exam and was shortlisted for the interview. She flew to Canada, marveling at the snowy landscapes and the warm people. The interview was intense, but she felt prepared.
Meanwhile, her grandmother's health improved, reinforcing Diane's belief that things happen for a reason. She returned to Mindanao, awaiting the results.
YOU ARE READING
Ascending the Dental Ladder
Short StoryDiane Sevet a general practitioner dentist who's yet to decide which dental specialization to take for residency. Passion and enthusiasm emanates in her when it comes to learning dentistry. Providing best-quality and life-changing dental treatments...
