One of my patients brought a friend in to her office visit today.

This friend had known her for years. They had helped one another through surgeries and illnesses; deaths and births. 

They had shared laughter, and adventure.

They knew each other so well that one could tell the other's stories.

It was a pleasure to glimpse into this friendship.

This particular patient is one of the most generous, unselfish souls I have ever encountered--and that is saying a lot, as I know many.

Her story contains as much heartache as the next person. She has weathered much.

Yet even in the face of disappointment, she continues to live life with compassion and love.

It is no accident that she has a close and caring circle of friends and family.

It has been my great privilege to be welcomed into her circle. Her compassion and love has brightened my path as a physician, even as I have undergone my own significant--though unrelated--personal heartache.

My patient's presence today reminded me that it is doctoring, in part, that has enabled me to remain optimistic about the future.

My patient's presence today--and the presence of her friend--reminded me that it is our relationship with others that keeps us going through surgeries and illnesses; deaths and births.

Their presence today reminded me that it is the love of those around us that keeps us alive.

 

inside/outside

Boston, 11/11

~~~~~

Dr. Lisa's Bountiful Blog is read on the Dr. Lisa Radio Hour & Podcast. Show summaries are available on the Dr. Lisa website. Subscribe to podcasts of the show through iTunes and let us know what you think.