When Mike first starting having some difficulties with the localized seizures that affected his hand, it was a real dilemma. He came to see me, and laid out the issue in a very logical and objective manner. What did this mean, we wondered? What should happen next? Of course, patient safety was paramount, and it was my job to ensure this. Mike always had tremendous insight into his own situation, and his own limitations, though. He knew that it was time to move to the next chapter. He suggested a withdrawal from procedural work. I didn't have to. Fortunately, EP is a very intellectual specialty, and there is lots to contribute to patient care without being hands-on in the literal sense...
Thinking about this made me recall Mike's "hands" though - in the surgical sense. He had good hands. Better than most. He had a good 3-D sense (this is the "spatial relations" aspect of intelligence that we are all tested on in high school..) and so was able to navigate catheters around the heart very well. And when this was combined with sensible good judgment and a thoughtful approach, he was really quite good it at.
From Chris
Editor's note: These photos show Mike in his element. Mike always talked about staring at squiggles on a screen that were 'so cool'...??! I know only Chris and a few select others would understand this geeky fascination:)
Sarah
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