In late 2013, I received a life-saving organ transplant.  I recently worked the story of my surgery and recovery into a short speech.  I included a few jokes, and last weekend I participated in a speech contest against others from the surrounding areas.  (This is one of my jokes:  “A couple of days after surgery, the surgeon said flatulence was an early sign of recovery.  I had never tried so hard to pass gas in my life!”)

I lost the contest.  (It may be coincidence, but the winner told about his near-fatal heart problem.)  I had spent many hours practicing and refining my information so I’d stay in the time limit.  I’m not overly disappointed with not winning because my main purpose was to use the contest to encourage others to become organ donors.  

What’s the safety tie-in?  Safety is not a win-lose contest.  In my opinion, you are a success as long as you take the time, prepare properly are truly trying to …

Be Safe!

Last week I mentioned that I’m shaving with my left hand, and one of my coworkers suggested, “Buy an electric razor.  Problem solved.”  I appreciate the thoughtful reply, and I welcome the suggestion.  However, I had tried an electric razor many years ago, and I didn’t like it.  I also considered buying one while I was recuperating, but I chose to stay with my “budget” option since I wasn’t working at that time.  I am giving it more thought and I may try an electric razor in the future.

I’ve seen many procedures that are complex and, from my perspective, could be improved.  Most of the time, as I get insight, I come to understand why things are the way they are.  Then again, when I listen to questions and suggestions, I see a new perspective that may improve safety.  As we make and receive suggestions, we need to consider the entire “picture.”  The criteria for any idea or suggestion should be if it will help us …

Be Safe!

Keith S.

In December 2013, I underwent a very long surgery.  My arm was in the wrong position for too long and when I woke up I had paralysis in my right arm.  Over the last 15 months, that has been slowly healing to where now I can do some handwriting and I’m even (slowly) typing.  Since I haven’t regained all the feeling in my right hand, there are still a few things I don’t dare try just yet.  First and foremost is shaving.  I’m leery of having a razor in my right hand so near my throat when I don’t feel I have full control of the razor.  Perhaps someday I’ll have the feeling back and it will feel natural again.  For now, I shave with my left hand.

Everyone has limitations, be it training needed or some other reason.  Keep your limitations in mind as your plan your tasks and projects.  Get expertise when necessary, make adjustments where you can, or take extra time as needed, but always …

Be Safe!

Keith S.