Dr. Joanne Magro “The Power of the Stiletto.” News Column (08)

Edition Eight- Week Eight; News Column:

Written by: Dr. Joanne Magro 

Dr. Joanne Magro: Catwalk to Code Blue

Dr. Joanne Magro and How Fashion’s Fiercest Trends Helped Me Navigate the Craziest Nights in the ER

“Ah, fashion- the delightful potion we concoct. In the wild world of the Emergency Room, where chaos reigns supreme and uncertainty lurks around every corner. I can
wholeheartedly say that fashion serves as my very own confidence booster. Yes, my friends, while my medical prowess may be time tested, it is my sartorial choices that help forge the indomitable spirit that wades through the treacherous waters of patient care, defibrillators at the ready.

You see, when I slip into a chic white tailored medical coat with my name meticulously embroidered in red and of course a beautifully chosen brooch on my lapel I can instantly feel the surge of self-assurance replacing that early morning fatigue. There’s something fantastical about knowing that my outfit can elicit a smile, or even better, an excited squeal of “You’ve got to be kidding right now!” from a colleague as I stroll through the triage area.

It’s all part of the medical magic, portraying an image that says, “I’m here to save lives, but I’m also here to slay!”

When you’re navigating the survival of the fittest within the ER setting, confidence can often feel like a coat thrown over a shaky foundation of uncertainty. The bolstering effect of fashion helps keep the foundation adequately fortified. I might walk into a bright room filled with waiting patients who look like they could use a dash of serenity, and suddenly-thanks to an intricate ensemble complete with a well-placed dazzling brooch or maybe an art deco necklace-I feel like the calming presence they need. Amidst the rush of medical terminology whizzing past, the right outfit can make all the difference as I embrace my role as both healer and fashionista.

There’s an unspoken power that transcends mere aesthetics; it happens when you spot a pair of eye-catching shoes that could light up an entire room. It’s as if the universe becomes a runway, inviting you to strut your stuff with every step. With confidence teetering high on those heels, the doubts of patients dilate and wither in the face of my fierce demeanor and killer ensemble. It’s the magic of fashion- when you look good, you feel good, and when you feel good, well, let’s say you can diagnose a rare condition with the aplomb of a Broadway star delivering the show stopping finale! But let’s not forget the art of accessorizing in this high-stakes world of patient interactions.

Picture me, in the heat of the chaos, navigating a room filled with splashing emotions. I glance at my striking necklace and nod to my personal style, sparkling like the spirit of innovation- and it serves as a reminder that I am not just Dr. Fashionista; I’m Dr. Confident, Dr. Grounded. A pair of bold earrings might sway as I provide reassurance to a worried family member, underscoring my sense of normalcy in the whirlwind of trauma. Because who else can sport an outfit that whispers warmth while punctuating the air with a sparkle?

In the world of Emergency Medicine, style tells a story-narrative drenched in compassion and fierce independence.

However, let’s be real for a moment: fashion can’t solve all of life’s problems, much like caffeine can’t magically cure that 3am angst. Fashion is, after all, merely an enhancement tool for what is ultimately the heart of the matter- my medical expertise and compassion.

But let’s agree that there will always be that one day that your confidence teeters like a bad balancing act in the ER, and all you need is a touch of creativity to regain control. Like the day I rocked my new bright green scrubs, exuding vibrant energy, even as I faced a patient whose arterial bleeding would make any swift-footed superhero proud. Armed with color and verve, I charged forth like a comet- a catwalk meets CODE BLUE scenario, navigating through the mess with style. Lastly, my fashion choices play a role far beyond the fabric draping my body. They ignite my relationships with colleagues, giving rise to vibrant conversations. “Wonder where you scored that fabulous lab coat?” they ask, or “I simply can’t believe those shoes aren’t for the runway!” These exchanges create an atmosphere that makes me feel part of a vibrant community that is not only committed to a shared mission but is also celebrating life through a myriad of styles. After all, when you can bond over the joys of funky yet classy scrubs, you can successfully tackle anything life throws your way-no matter how many heart attacks, strokes, traumas, CODE BLUES you may encounter in a single shift!

So, here’s to all the gowns, bling, and other accoutrements that I adorn, they all serve as instruments in my medical journey! Fashion isn’t just a fun detour; it’s a game changer, lifting my spirits like a double-shot espresso when the exhaustion sets in. In moments of uncertainty, it injects joy into the hustle and bustle of the emergency room, reminding me that deep down, I am not just saving lives-I’m also living my own. Indeed, with every outfit I don, I rediscover that self-assured sparkle, keeping me grounded even in the most chaotic of storms.

I am, indeed, rocking this medical adventure in style!”

“The Doctor Joanne Magro Foundation for Physician Health and Wellness”/ jmagromd@gmail.com and Peer Support Specialist for Addiction Recovery and Support Community Outreach/ jmagromd@gmail.com.

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What topics would you like to read next by authorship of Dr. Joanne Magro in the upcoming edition of her column? Leave your comments below!