A Note Of Appreciation

A little over a year ago, a provider that I had been visiting for a few years, seemingly out of the blue, asked if I would mind if she ran more extensive testing that covered areas outside of her specialty—she just had a hunch about a few things. Because of her previous care, her professionalism, and the trust she had built with me over a few years, I wholeheartedly agreed to whatever she suggested. The results from those tests pointed to some serious concerns, two new diagnoses, and a few new doctors I get to visit more regularly. Fortunately, I have had such an amazing experience with them and their staff. What started with shock, fear, and confusion has progressed to hope, a better quality of life, and notably important: a longer life span.

I’m not one to generally speak up about health fluctuations or symptoms, so looking back, I am so impressed and thankful that my first provider went above and beyond and noticed certain things about my appearance, energy, and overall presentation that had nothing to do with why I was there in the first place. I did not completely comprehend how horrible I was feeling until I was on the other side and realized, this is how I’m supposed to feel, and it's amazing. What a difference!

If she hadn’t made her suggestions, I’d likely still be pretty miserable and clueless. I’ve since had similarly amazing experiences with my new doctors and all of the nurses, PAs, NPs, phlebotomists, and even my pharmacist who is always available, helpful, and knows me by name.

There are so many healthcare professionals who go above and beyond in ways that most people probably never see. The doctors who stay up late reviewing your case, research something outside the usual treatment plan, or take the time to find a sample, coupon, or resource that could make something a little easier. The nurses, PAs, NPs, MAs, pharmacists, and office staff who call to check in, remember your name, know about your hobbies or interests, and treat you like a person instead of a chart. Those little things may seem insignificant in the moment, but when you are already overwhelmed by your health, they can mean everything. I am incredibly grateful for the people in healthcare who still find ways to make their patients feel seen, heard, and cared for.

Outside of my own care, I have seen healthcare workers changing and saving lives with the efficiency and care of true heroes. In recent years, my mom had cancer and required major surgery at the University of Washington while receiving oncological treatment at a more rural medical center. I was amazed by the efficiency and organization of everyone involved, along with the teamwork required between multiple surgeons, specialists, and locations. Every time we met someone new, they introduced themselves, learned our names, and explained what was happening. The nurses, doctors, and medical assistants worked so seamlessly together, while still making the care feel personal.

I am incredibly grateful for the people in healthcare who still find ways to make their patients feel seen, heard, and cared for.

All of these recent encounters have also instilled an entirely new appreciation for how much healthcare professionals have to fight for their patients behind the scenes, too. There are so many things that happen after a doctor writes a prescription or recommends a treatment that patients never see: insurance denials, prior authorizations, appeals, phone calls, paperwork, and trying to convince someone that a patient genuinely needs what has been recommended. The fact that they continue to advocate for their patients through all of that, on top of everything else they already have on their plates, is something I have so much respect for.

Healthcare is not perfect, and I know there are frustrating experiences on every side, but I think it is important to recognize the countless healthcare professionals who care deeply about their patients and go far beyond what is required of them. I have always appreciated the work that is done in healthcare facilities, but it is easy to forget the difference being made there when you are not witnessing it firsthand. So here is my small note of appreciation to everyone working in healthcare today—I am incredibly thankful for you and for the ways you have changed the course of my life and my family's lives for the better. You are the difference makers, and at least for me, your dedication and your work do not go unnoticed.