The Courage to Care

Dear Dr. Isaac, I am struggling to find the right words to express my gratitude for the genuine, consistent, thoughtful, and insightful care you have provided me. After each visit to your office, I leave feeling a sense of peace and clarity that is difficult to put into words. You have helped me understand and accept what is happening to my body, even in the face of these rare diseases. It amazes me how you can transform something so difficult and painful into a burden that feels lighter and more manageable. I often think you may not fully realize the impact your office visits have on me. Your willingness to listen and initially, over time, give me the space to explain my experiences within the regular healthcare system is truly invaluable. As my health deteriorated, the treatment I received became increasingly worse. I was mistreated, disbelieved, and even mocked. Your compassion and understanding have built trust, that trust affords me the ability to explain current health issues, follow up, and move forward. This is priceless! I want to express my gratitude for the small and big gestures that make a significant difference - walking me to my car in the freezing rain when Lindsay was struggling with the wheelchair, taking the time to explain how my conditions affect me, and involving her in our discussions. Your gentle words of encouragement, offering a glass of water, sharing funny stories - they may seem insignificant, but they have a profound impact on my well-being. When I am in your presence, I no longer see the clinical surroundings. Instead, I see a doctor who is not only knowledgeable but also vulnerable and empathetic-a human being. There is no ego in our interactions, creating a genuine trust and connection. Since becoming your patient, I have found a place of solace and tranquility, a higher ground on which to rest. I will forever be grateful for the letter you wrote for me when I entered palliative care. It provided me with immense comfort and support. The space you have created for me to heal from past experiences is truly remarkable and has been instrumental in my journey. I chose the quote from C.S Lewis in this letter to you for a very specific reason. It takes courage to be genuine, to listen, explain, empathize and share. It takes great courage to care. I have this framed on my wall because I want to exhibit this to others, but also to myself. You have been instrumental in this in more ways than I can encapsulate here. Thank you for caring. Thank you for seeing me as a human being in a world that often divides and excludes. Your dedication to your patients is monumental, and I am truly fortunate to have you as my doctor.