"Miracle in Medicine. On the Border of Life and Death. Stories of doctors"

Compiled by: Anna Mateja First edition: 2010 Medical topic: Memoirs of medical specialists Description: "Miracle in Medicine" is a collection of memoirs by many distinguished Polish medical specialists; it also includes the stories of numerous patients who recovered in ways that modern medicine cannot explain, and in some cases, from a medical standpoint, it was deemed impossible. The miracle of the title is often created by the doctors themselves, who, despite the lack of realistic possibilities, yet full of hope and faith, do not give up but fight for what is most precious—human health and life. Regardless of age, whether the patient is a teenager or a retiree, they take up the challenge, thereby offering a chance and an opportunity, often making the most of it. The book can be dedicated to both patients and doctors (including future ones). It beautifully describes the behind-the-scenes workings of medical services, their dedication, stress, and the fight for every “life.” It is also a lesson in the art of healing and patient interaction. Prof. Imiela writes, “Not all patients need to be held by the hand and told, ‘It’ll be okay,’ while looking them in the eyes.” Some expect a frank conversation and to be treated as equals, on the principle that the less talk, the better. The art lies in figuring out which approach each patient expects. That is why, for years, I have been teaching students that in every patient, they must first and foremost see a human being, not just a case.” Among the distinguished specialists who spoke were: cardiac surgeon Prof. Z. Religa, microsurgeon Prof. M. Siemionow, psychiatrist Prof. B. De Barbaro, cardiac surgeon Prof. A. Bochenek, geneticist-oncologist Prof. J. Lubiński, oncologist Prof. C. Szczylik, hematologist Prof. W. Jędrzejczak, neurosurgeon Prof. T. Trojanowski, geneticist Prof. J. Zaremba, nephrologist Prof. B. Rutkowski, pediatric cardiac surgeon Prof. J. Skalski, internist Prof. J. Imiela, cardiologist Dr. M. Edelman, and surgeon Dr. M. Wasielica