Dr. Akinniyi Fadipe
A man known to be an alcoholic presented to our facility with a fatty liver. The physician advised him to stop consuming alcohol. He did not take their advice. Seven months later he returned, this time with massive GI bleeding. It was so extreme that he went into cardiac arrest in the ICU. I still remember the circumstances around his CPR which resulted in a sternal fracture. Almost spontaneously, circulation returned, he was resuscitated and taken to the OR. An EGD was completed and confirmed a bleeding duodenal ulcer. We began an emergency laparotomy and immediately sought the Lord in prayer. Circumstances did not look good, but God had other plans!
During his recovery, we continually prayed over him. Post-operative day five, we had an opportunity to share of the hope found in Jesus. That day, he gave his life to Christ and committed to giving up alcohol. I saw him recently in clinic on his feet and grateful to God. I still ask myself how he came so close to death, yet made it through this ordeal, but I know the answer. It is Jesus! Just as He guided me to become a surgeon, I experienced many obstacles and delays leading up to and during my training with PAACS. With patience and perseverance, I was able to finish my training.
God knows what is best for us all. I’m thankful to have become a complete surgeon, both in skills and love for Christ, that He can use me to bring the Good News to my patients.
