Your visit was the Best Medicine

Yesterday I checked in on a patient just before he was set to discharge home. Earlier this week I went by to talk to him in detail about his new cancer diagnosis and what the next steps in treatment might entail. It was a winding conversation. We talked about his life journey to this point and his values. I really enjoy when I have time to pull up a chair and get to know someone without being rushed by the buzz of a pager or my anxiety about the work that I still need to do.

As I was leaving his room yesterday, this man said "You know, I really enjoyed our conversation a few days ago. That's the best medicine I've received since I've been here." That compliment warmed my heart and recharged my passion for my work in oncology. It was a great reminder that even simple gestures of kindness and mutual respect can themselves be therapeutic. 

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