I am a Medical Laboratory Scientist. I am the one who discovered a pregnancy in the couple who had a slim hope of ever bearing a child but was not there to "high-five" them. I gave closure to thousands of families of the 9/11 disaster by identifying the remains of their loved ones but was not there to share their tears. I personally discovered a terrorist's weapon of choice, Anthrax, but could not bask in the limelight.
I performed the tumor marker tests that helped in the diagnosis of cancer in your father, mother, spouse, or other family member early enough for a successful recovery or at least in time for them to wrap up loose ends.
I recognized when you needed more iron, less medication, and a better diet. I tested your serum for hepatitis markers and for HIV antibodies. I identified the organism that was causing your infection and the antimicrobials that would be effective in treating it. I identified the HLA markers in a donor that provided a perfect match for the stem cell transplant you so desperately needed. I supply most of the evidence your physician uses to diagnose your ills. My tasks are limitless, but always behind the scenes. I am a vital part of the healthcare team and make substantial contributions to you r diagnosis and treatment. But I never get to tell you so.
Karen Gordon
President, Virginia Society for Clinical Laboratory Science
