Doctor's Notes, A - Book Review

5 out of 5 stars A Book Well Worth Reading By Robert B. Sampsell (Chapel Hill, NC) December 25, 2009 Dr. Tom Godwin has written an excellent book that at first seems to be the memoires of a highly successful cardiologist. It would be well worth reading if that were all it was, as this man has been a pioneer in the specialty of cardiology during a period of amazing progress in treating conditions that in earlier times would have been a death sentence. But, it turns out the quite fascinating story of Tom Godwin's life is interwoven with many subthemes: medical education and its flaws, hospital politics, the rewards of helping others, the anguish of not being able to help, the remarkable teamwork among medical professionals, and the experience of treating very sick doctors and then being one himself. All of this comes alive in a wonderfully readable narrative that is by turns, informative, sobering, funny, sad, touching, uplifting, and at all times engaging. Once you start reading, you will find it very difficult to put this book down. The final and most important chapter of this book contains the author's thoughts about how the practice of medicine needs to change now in response to the new and very expensive medical treatments that are outgrowths of a convergence of technologies rooted in the knowledge explosion in genetics, biosynthesis, bioengineering, imaging, and computer science. His experience in the Canadian national health system provides an important perspective that American readers would do well to understand as the debate about Obama care moves toward a very likely radical restructuring of medical care delivery in the United States with the objective of universal coverage. Godwin feels that issues of disease prevention, medical care rationing, determining best medical practices, and dealing with end-of-life care all must be faced, not ignored, if universal medical care is to be economically viable in an era of new, but incredibly expensive medical miracles. ----------------------------------------------------------------- From the BC Medical Journal November 2009 by David R Richardson, MD I recently read A Doctor's Notes: Taken from both sides of the bedsheets, by Dr Tom Godwin. Admittedly, it would have been nicer if Kate Winslet had read it to me while I sipped white wine on the patio - I love her voice - but the experience was pleasant nevertheless. Dr Godwin spent his cardiology career at the Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster. As I spent my rotating internship at RCH, I have a special interest in his book. However, I am a little upset that Tom didn't mention me in his chapter 'Medical Buddies' as one of the most influential medical people in his life, but he probably didn't want to embarrass me. Dr Godwin's memoirs are a journey from his youth to present day. I know he's not dead yet as I recently saw him walk past my office in Langley. Dr Godwin was always a practical, 'call-it-like-he-saw-it' kind of guy. His words weave interesting tales of patients, advances in medicine, and hospital challenges. He is frank, honest, and unpretentious, not to mention entertaining. He also shares heartfelt stories of hardship and joy involving his family. Dr Godwin has had a full and fascinating life as evidenced by his chapter called 'Hobbies.' I'm not sure how he managed to fit everything in. Lastly, he poignantly shares his own health struggles, which eventually led to his retirement. This mid-sized book has something for everyone, but would be particularly enjoyable to anyone whose life was touched by Dr Godwin, and I'm sure there are many of us. ---------------------------------------------------- Tom Godwin's memoir tells the story of a fun-loving and adventurous cardiologist who pioneered cardiovascular services at the Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster, BC. There is realism and candor in his descriptions of cases - anguish, pathos, joy, failure, success - and invariably an explanation of the condition and its treatment that is understandable by the average reader. Although the dominant theme of the memoir is a patient-based exposition of medical problems and solutions, Tom Godwin's other experiences make good stories. Dr. Godwin's own nearly fatal, disabling, complex illness 'on the other side of the bedsheets,' is an odyssey of hope and despair, diminishing him physically, but leaving him intellectually as exuberant as when he first arrived in New Westminster. It is readable, informative, humorous, and profound. Ramsay Gunton, MD (retired) Order of Canada Pioneer in cardiac catheterization Former head, Dept of Medicine, University of Western Ontario Former president, Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Canada July 2008 --------------------------------- This is a terrific book! Among the best in its genre, it is a fine work of non-fiction by any metric. Gritty, authentic, riveting, hilarious, and poignant in turns. On occasion I writhe too. I simply could not put the thing down. You write with an admirable clarity. It is simply a masterful achievement. Dr. Robert McMurtry Emeritus Professor and Dean of Medicine, University of Western Ontario September 2008 --------------------------------------- I'm astonished by medical technology - what it can do and, in many cases, how new it is. It amazes me to read about procedures and equipment we knew nothing about even in the 70s and 80s. The tidbits are fascinating - how pacers have gone from hockey puck size to Loonie size, straight wire to coiled - exploding pacers in crematoriums! and, recycled pacers in vet offices! The real stories about doctors and their lives are better than anything on television. I laughed out loud on Skytrain reading about Alvin's and Shawn's visit to emergency, checking cows for pregnancy, and the pig appies you served your guests. Should I be so lucky to visit your home I will be sure NOT to eat! I'm not being flippant but WOW - it's not easy being a doctor! My average bad day has nothing on yours! Medical mistakes are not reversible. How does one go home after a day like the one with woman with the tumor in her stomach? Chapters 12 and 13 were actually hard to put down. You should be proud of what you've accomplished - as a doctor AND as a writer. Congratulations! Belle Puri, CBC journalist October 2008 ------------------------------ From my viewpoint, this book, first and foremost, is a remarkable MEMOIR. The reader gets a real flesh and blood taste - quite literally at some point - of what medicine is REALLY all about. It is also a PERSONAL testament. Medicine is a very demanding trade, if seriously, indeed passionately, pursued/practiced, as Tom Godwin has done. It is NOT, as many may perceive it, a 'holiday camp,' with 9 - 5 hours, respected status, and lots of lolly. While there are many rewards, the price can run high. Indeed, the reader will be confronted with the very sobering question: was TFG's terrible illness, which in fact threatened to kill him, the result of perhaps a combination of things relating to his practice/ lab/ hospital work? Maybe the early stress generated by the sheer level of persisting total exhaustion during those Residency years at the Wellesely and elsewhere did more damage than anybody knows? Maybe the cumulative impact/ effect of 'pushing too hard, too far, and for too long'? Of course, no one knows for sure. But it makes a very important point: the serious practice of medicine is NOT for the faint-hearted. That, for me, is arguably the most important message for those who are about to venture into medicine, or into cardiology, or one of the medical specialties. The message/implication/inference of Tom's various anecdotes/escapades is, at base, a very serious one, and it is: Think carefully. THIS is what medicine is all about. Is THIS what you REALLY want to do? Michael Vickers, PhD (Birm), Author and historian October 2008 ------------------------------ I first met Tom Godwin in 1988 when I became President and CEO of the Royal Columbian Hospital. At that time he was president of the medical staff and was eminently regarded as an extremely hard-working cardiologist. After reading the draft of Tom's book, I couldn't help but reflect that there is absolutely no doubt that 'what you see is what you get' with him. He is sincere, genuine, and honest as the day is long, and he was always highly respected by colleagues and idolized by patients and staff. His anecdotes will draw big pictures for most readers because the stories are fascinating reflections on the challenges that confronted a conscientious physician as the practice of medicine was rapidly evolving. As I read what he refers to as 'my little book,' I could hear his voice echoing each word. His experience and insight enable him to simply tell it as it is - warm and human, as well as a delightful read! James Fair October 30, 2007 ---------- There are not many people who get to start something from scratch as you did and now you have the ultimate with heart catheterization, angioplasty, and bypass surgery in your own hospital. That is a tremendous accomplishment and all very much due to your own pioneering efforts. E. Douglas Wigle, OC, MD, FRCP(C), FACC Officer of the Order of Canada Professor of Medicine, Chief of Cardiology, Toronto General Hospital (Retired) ....... Tom has done more to develop cardiac services at the Royal Columbian over the past 30+ years than anyone else. Indeed, our cardiac catheterization laboratories bear his name. His book gave me interesting and much-appreciated insight into how our program developed. But the ties between us go back even further. Tom worked as a resident in the first coronary unit in the world, which opened in March 1962 at the Toronto General Hospital. The coronary unit had been the brainchild of my father, Dr. Ken Brown, and his good friend and colleague, Dr. Bob MacMillan. Therefore, not only were Tom's tales of his early medical life interesting and amusing, but were of special interest to me since I knew many of the persons involved. This book is a good read for anyone with an interest in the development of modern day Canadian cardiology, delivered with an abundance of 'Godwinesque' humour and wisdom. I thoroughly enjoyed it! Robert I.G. Brown, MD, FRCP(C) Director, Dr. Thomas F. Godwin Cardiac Catheterization Laboratories Royal Columbian Hospital ....... This is one of the best books that I have read in a long time and believe Dr. Godwin's conclusions are valid. My wife, a retired nurse, particularly loved 'Harry' described on many pages in this book. Don Hutchins, MD General practitioner, Royal Columbian Hospital (retired) ---------- I, Marge McKnight, can vouch for the statement made to me by Dr. Richard Foulkes (in chapter two). I can recall lots more over the years - like that half-eaten tie you so proudly wore for at least a month. I thought the procedures outlined were very detailed with a lot of humour thrown in to break up the many bizarre occurrences of hospital life. Of course, a lot of this can only happen to you, Tom! Marge McKnight Chief Cardiology Technician, RCH (retired) ...... I read the book cover to cover. It was a very enjoyable read. The easy writing style allows a layperson like me the opportunity to understand the fascinating and occasionally humorous medical stories. I first met the author in 1972 and was a close neighbour until 1981. We have remained close friends ever since. We shared many escapades on the Godwin farm often just for the bedevilment of it. I was well aware of his hair-raising and life-threatening incidents. This is one of the most riveting books I have read. Tom Smith Heavy-duty mechanic and businessman --------- We thoroughly enjoyed your book - your compassion, a doctor's day-to-day joys, sadness and frustrations but always a bit of humour. Your story gives a very strong, honest and truthful message. You have made a complex subject intriguing and educational to a layman. To quote Jack's brother, Garth (PhD), who had a brief review of your book, 'There's a lot of good stuff here.' We agree with you on the changes needed to our medical system. It was our pleasure to read your book, Tom - and we loved 'Harry!' Your continued support to a former patient is outstanding. Best wishes, good friend. Jack & Doreen Reid Former patient ..... Tom Godwin has written a very personal and entertaining account of his life. The stories range from hilarious to heartbreaking, and are told in Tom's own endearing, 'folksy' style. Medical terminology is demystified, and he has explained things I haven't understood in 35 years of practice! Lest anyone think that Dr. Godwin's accounts are exaggerated or embellished, I can vouch for the authenticity and accuracy of his tales of the bad old days of medical training (or indentured servitude). He has divided his memoir into bite-sized portions - perfect for somebody like me who cannot read a book in one sitting. This is a book I loved to read and will re-read. I can recommend it without reservation. Bernie Toews, MD Former clinical chief, Dept. of General Practice Royal Columbian Hospital ..... With Tom, patients always came first, even if it bucked the administration. His liveliness and humour were legendary. Any person interested in medicine, both the professional and the layperson, would find this book very interesting. It brought back a lot of memories. Fran Kuhn, RN Former manager, Coronary Care Unit Royal Columbian Hospital Return to Full Product View Subscribe to our Newsletters to keep up to date Copyright © 2011 Hancock House Publishers. All Rights Reserved.