I'm Riding For

A 9 year old boy from the 80s with a brain tumor

When I was a 4th year medical student doing a rotation with a pediatric neurologist I cared for a 9 year old boy who was diagnosed with a brain tumor. I remember so many details about that encounter even though it was over 30 years ago. I got to know his family, went to his testing appointments, and had my brother perform magic tricks for him after his surgery. I have kept him in my heart and mind for all these years and had mixed feelings about trying to find him. He has a very common name so when I did try to find him, it was impossible. But I found a number for the retired neurologist on the white pages online and left a message. He called back and told me the young man was doing well and that they kept in touch. I burst out in tears of joy. Since that time I have spoken to his mother and have also texted and traded emails and voicemails with the "patient." He is happy and healthy. I am so grateful for that experience and that he is doing well. So many do not.