I realize that in a high-volume setting, the high-pressure atmosphere tends to stifle a caregiver’s inherent compassion and humanity. But the briefest pause in the frenetic pace can bring out the best in a caregiver and do much for a terrified patient. . . .
If I have learned anything, it is that we never know when, how, or whom a serious illness will strike. If and when it does, each one of us wants not simply the best possible care for our body but for our whole being.
I read this quote in a blog post by Paul Levy, President and CEO of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston who write a blog titled Running a Hospital. And then I read it again. And again. The author, Kenneth Shwartz died of lung cancer in 1995 and left us with this moving description of his experience, A Patient’s Story. For all of us who work with the seriously ill and their families, this story is a wonderful reminder of how meaningful the small gestures and brief intimate moments can be.
