Feelings of fear and ineptitude have been my almost constant companions as I was thrown into challenging situations. The prostate was hard, lumpy and asymmetrical, and even I could immediately tell this was cancer and treatment should be expedited. I have not quite come to terms with calling myself a doctor because it sounds somewhat fraudulent. But I also occasionally admit to myself that I am pretty thrilled about being a junior doctor at 51. I am blown away at the momentary connections I get to share with people in the most extraordinary moments of life.

Source: The Guardian January 01, 2026 15:31 UTC