Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, observed by Muslims. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, but for this doctor, it seems like breaking fast on time may be difficult due to the work obligations he is tied to.
M’sian doctor reveals how he barely has time to break fast during Ramadan
Speaking to local newspaper Harian Metro, Dr. Samsu Ambia Ismail, the Head of the Emergency and Trauma Department at Teluk Intan Hospital in Perak revealed that he and his colleague would often not get the chance to break their fast on time.
“Due to our work obligations, we barely have time to break our fast”, he said.
Despite being in the industry for over 28 years, Dr. Samsu mentioned that it is still exhausting at times when you don’t get to break their fast on time. Working in the emergency and trauma department, this means that their meal times would often get disrupted due to unforeseen cases.
Stories from the archives
Recalling his encounters working in the trauma department, a particular had stuck with him since 1996. Sharing the story, Dr. Samsu was in charge of a case where 5 patients were rushed into the hospital due their throats being slit.
Working through the night to save the patients, the responsible doctor revealed that the stench of blood was so overwhelming that when it was time for sahur, he was unable to eat anything.
“The stench was so strong, it took my appetite away”, said Dr. Samsu.
Sharing another story from his archives, during a landslide tragedy back in 2002, Dr. Samsu was called to the scene to help treat the victims that were involved in the landslide. Arriving at the scene, he was asked to take care of 3 deceased victims as well as other victims who were still buried underneath.
“It was during sahur and seeing that I have duties on hand, I quickly downed some water to fill my stomach and continued on working”, he mentioned.
Treat them with kindness
Regardless of his busy schedule, Dr. Samsu makes it a point to never neglect any of his patients while adhering to his personal religious obligations. Going above and beyond for his patients, the caring doctor would often share his food with patients who came by to the hospital alone.
“I want to make sure that all the patients are well taken care of”, said the selfless doctor.
It’s incredible that Dr. Samsu has been serving in the industry for 28 years. Thank you for your contributions towards the society. Here’s a gentle reminder to always treat your healthcare workers politely.
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Also read: “It’s beneficial”, M’sian doctor praised for communicating in sign language with deaf parents