Dr. Ryan Shephard is one of the most talented doctors I know and someone who is entirely committed to doing all that he can to save as many lives as possible. I was Ryan’s roommate for seven years, and during that time, I could see the other side of being a doctor, which most people do not see. This is very much the same for anyone who works as a medical professional or emergency services. While we may see a great doctor or nurse who has it all together, the reality can often be very different.
Emotions
We may think that doctors are devoid of emotions, but that is just not the case, and more often than not, they keep emotions back until they can let them out. I can remember several times that I heard my roomie in emotional distress after a tough day; perhaps a patient of his had been arrested or passed away that day. Of course, he must remain professional; once that door closes; however, things are very different.
Tiredness
The fatigue the doctors and nursing staff face is incredible, and how they keep going is beyond me. Doctors must work incredibly long hours, often 12-hour shifts over multiple days. As you can imagine, tiredness can be incredibly tough to cope with such a stressful and highly charged job. I have seen Ryan on numerous occasions after a brutal five-day stretch of work where he is so tired that he cannot even perform the most basic of tasks. I had even seen him engaging in conversation and falling asleep before he finished what he was saying.
Studying
For most of us, studying stops once we have finished our education, but that is not the case in a doctor’s world. Many doctors still look very hard because they worry they will lose the knowledge that could later help a patient. Doctors will also continue to study because of the new advancements and technological improvements in medicine. They do their best to keep their anger on the pulse to be the best they can be.
Leadership
Many doctors have people they look after in the hospital, and they must ensure that they are excellent leaders for their charges. This is something else that a doctor must focus on, and many of them need to work on leadership skills. Away from the hospital can mean additional stress and days off, which are not, in fact, days off at all. Working as a leader can mean that doctors can make more money, giving them a more prosperous career; they must work hard for it.
