So, a few days ago, I had a pretty emotional day. I received a call from our pediatric endocrinologist, saying that it was her last day and that she was taking a new job outside of the university. I am so thankful that she took the time to call and say goodbye. Having a child with a chronic condition means that you visit Drs a lot. Continuity of care becomes a big issue. We have been seeing this Dr since my oldest was born, so about every 3 months for the last 7 years. That’s more than we’ve seen some of our family! When you see a Dr that frequently, you bond with that Dr and so do your children. They know everything about your children, your family, your lifestyle, etc. You begin to see that they care deeply about the health and well-being of your children. I have heard of mothers coming out of appointments with their doctors feeling frustrated and having questions unanswered. I haven’t felt that way with this Dr, because she was kind and patient enough to listen to all of our questions and concerns. She took into account their symptoms and didn’t just look at the numbers. She made me and my husband feel as if we were part of the team making decisions about our children’s health together instead of just being told what to do. Even on her last day, in her last hour of work, she took time to call me. She talked to me about things I should ask about in our upcoming appointment with our new Dr. She said she would miss us and then said goodbye. I am so sad that she is leaving but wish her the very best in her new endeavor. I am so grateful that my children have had such wonderful medical care. In the end, I am thankful for her treating me and my children with respect…enough respect that she took the time to say goodbye.
-by Blythe Clifford
