"Anyone can win at poker when dealt a royal flush. But what can you do when the cards you are dealt don't appear winning at all? My answer: Make the best of what you have.

Recently I learned of a colleague who sustained a broken back in an accident. He continues to work, wearing a brace and not taking pain medication. I know from watching his videos that he routinely handles the most complicated eye surgeries. Such cases are challenging to any seasoned ophthalmologist, without physical constraints and constant pain. This internationally renowned eye surgeon dubbed his constant pain 'background noise.' How on earth has he maintained a positive attitude despite such a major setback?"

Paul Pender is an ophthalmologist and can be reached at his self-titled site, Dr. Paul Pender. He is the author of Rebuilding Trust in Healthcare: A Doctor's Prescription for a Post-Pandemic America.

He shares his story and discusses his KevinMD article, "Playing the hand you are dealt."

Reflect and earn 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 CME for this episode.

How physicians can play the hand they're dealt

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