[orthodoc]

Okay, I admit that my residency is probably unique. If I were doing, say, surgery, you're right - I simply couldn't manage the hours and physical requirements. Right now I do three clinics per week and have six grad courses per semester. I'll have to make up 14 clinics in May (because of missing time last fall) and I'll have a couple short, intensive courses in June. But I don't work 36 hours at a time like I did in the '80s.

Even with what could be regarded as the easiest of residencies, I'm maxed out and I do have to make up lost time and not wimp out in clinic. I worry about having another big complication. I won't qualify for FMLA until July. I know my residency director, who is a great guy, would do everything possible to help if I were to end up with another crisis (I have another surgery in May so more complications are possible). However, his hands are tied beyond a certain point by the national post-grad training accreditation body. I just feel that I have to push on, but no, I am not super-doctor!!

Unfortunately the parking nazis here don't issue fines, they tow. I can't face coming out at the end of the day and having my car just not be there, and having to go get it from wherever.

I think I'll have a word with the head of Employee Health, though. If that goes nowhere I can always make a formal complaint to the hospital, when I dredge up the energy.