In an era of six second video clips and selfies-tell-all, I often feel hollow after browsing my social media feeds... a feeling akin to consuming simple carbs. Have we lost the ability to write, and to think and digest as we read? I guess that’s a rhetorical question at best, and perhaps a dystopian one at worst.

I’ve set out on a new journey: writing long-form articles to get my thoughts out into the world. I’ve previously written a book, a process that took well over one year. I also post content on social media in a matter of minutes. This space provides a happy medium, pun intended, one that will hopefully garner more interest as I develop and refine my style.

Getting back to the written word... the word ‘juxtaposition’ is a special one. I love the power of comparison, especially when it comes to seemingly disparate or incongruous ideas and images. Architectural elements offer classic examples, such as the stark line of a steel built structure against nature’s backdrop in St. Louis, Missouri. The art world provokes thought with nude figures in a public space, as seen in the works of Michelangelo and Rodin. Modern photographers depict plants growing in a sidewalk crack. There are many unexpected harmonies throughout the music realm as well.

I’ve seen this first hand in the field of medicine, and it can be quite profound. The human condition paired with technology and AI. Intimate medical journeys challenged by broken systems. Connectivity thwarted by isolation. And so much more.

Perhaps the most compelling part is that I am both physician and patient. This can often be a challenge on my own health journey, but one that I feel compelled to write about for the benefit of others. Am I being altruistic? I prefer to think of this process as a form of universal therapy.

Why write on Substack? And why now? I’ve had a long career in medicine, and I continue to enjoy my current role as a medical consultant and advocate. I’ve previously stated,

My aim is to weave the tapestry of my career in ways that support others, promote health, strengthen human connections, and enrich our collective voices.

That much is still true. But, social media leaves me restless, and I feel compelled to write with more depth and meaning: to leave my mark with more permanent ink; to nourish others with complex carbs instead of simple carbs; to weave that tapestry with vibrancy and creativity.

And so it begins. I’m delighted and honored to have you along for this new ride, and I hope to stimulate honest discussions along the way. I can’t promise perfection, but I will promise a variety of timely topics, compelling to all who are interested in the intricacies of medical care in our imperfect modern systems, with stories from both sides of the physician-patient experience.

Please subscribe, and enjoy sharing these written words.

I am truly grateful,

Susan

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