Dr. Brian Zikmund-Fisher opens with a personal story from the bone marrow transplant ward, where he underwent chemotherapy and confronted the daily realities of serious illness. He describes his connection with Steve, another patient who had begun the same treatment path a week earlier, and their silent pledge to each other and to themselves. Following his story, Dr. Zikmund-Fisher reflects on how patients may create a personal space in the hospital through meaningful and humanizing objects. He notes that patients need not be endlessly patient but can control parts of their experience. He explores fear as a motivator, the importance of understanding risk and making a commitment, the value of acceptance of one’s circumstances, and how shared experiences can build community—reminding us that in healthcare, the human experience matters just as much as the science.
Sacred Moments Initiative
2800 Plymouth Road
North Campus Research Complex
Building 16, Room 430W
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2800
734-936-5216
