As a gastrointestinal oncologist who cares for patients with some of the most aggressive cancers, grief is something I often face. I have come to learn that the best way I can honor my patients is to live well.
Recently, one evening, just as I sat down on the couch and opened a novel, my daughter scooted closer to me. Did I want to play a Daniel Tiger "Tea Party" game with her on her iPad? I thought of my patient who would've given anything to be home with his kids rather than in the hospital. So I said yes. I put my book away. I focused fully on my daughter, being silly in the game, and the evening sunlight on her face as she belly-laughed. I put my arm around her. I sat there, soaking up that simple moment that was nearly missed.
Today, I hope we can cherish just how precious life is. And the gift of health. Of breath in our lung and the earth under our feet. Of having people to walk alongside us through life.
We honor our patients by living well.
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