At a publicity conference I attended in New York a few weeks ago, I met a woman who’d worked for a physician support group.  Her mission was to bring attention to the high suicide rate of doctors.

 

One of the things she said made a real impact on me. “Most doctors never get thank-you notes,” she said.  “Those that do either carry them around with them or leave them in their desk, referring to them often.  The job is so stressful, and they need help remembering that they are making a positive impact in their patient’s lives.”

 

My husband just got out of the hospital for a hip replacement.  When his doctor phoned to give me an update, I made sure to say to the doctor “Thank you for your work.  My husband has great confidence in your ability.”  I could tell he was surprised.

 

My husband asked me to keep a tally of the names of the doctors and nurses who cared for him so well at Health East Woodwinds Campus.  There are about a dozen names and he is writing a mass letter to all of them, and a separate one to his doctor.

 

At this time of thanksgiving, let’s take time to acknowledge the work of those who care for us.

 

May we pursue our paths, recognizing there’s more than one way to save others’ lives,

 

Best wishes,

 

Elizabeth