The “Secret” is Out: I’m no Superhero (and neither are you)

“I can't do this all on my own. No, I know, I'm no Superman.”  Lazlo Bane (“Scrubs” theme song)

The comic book superheroes Superman and Wonder Woman were both created 80 years ago, and have played prominently in the national (and international) psyche since that time.  Indeed, during the COVID pandemic it has become quite popular for cities and towns to celebrate their “Healthcare Superheroes.”

In my own medical training, I was socialized into a culture of uber-competence, bottomless compassion, perpetual strength, and endless hope.  This is likely the case for many in healthcare.  We were trained and socialized to be our own version of healthcare “superheroes.”  Not just during a pandemic, but all the time.  And we often too willingly embraced this image.       

And we all know that it’s just not true.

Even though I have tried my best to not “buy-in” to that image, this week I learned from my colleagues that I have not been very successful.  As I wrote last week, a “very not happy” back has significantly hobbled (and humbled) me.  While the outpouring of support and encouragement has been incredible, a particular text from a colleague caught my attention.  It read, “I can’t even picture something knocking you off your feet.  It must be really bad.” 

“What?!”, I thought.  “Where did that come from?”  Then this little voice inside reminded me; “You haven’t taken a sick day in 25 years … that’s where.  It’s an effort for you to ask for help … that’s where.  You rarely share your struggles with anyone – as if it shows strength … that’s where.”   

Well, now the “secret” is out.  I’m no Superhero – and neither are you.  We can’t do “this” profession all on our own.  That doesn’t mean we don’t do incredible work.  We do, every day.  It just means we do it as fellow human beings who’ve been blessed with a certain set of gifts that we’ve been called to share in this way.  And that’s enough.  More than enough ….