Hi Yukiyo,

It’s great to have some pleasantries as well as the pains. What are some of the pleasantries that you’ve experienced with your patients? How often do you experience these good times? Do you savor these days?

I had an experience yesterday with a patient that I experienced during the first week I worked with him. He was angry because he wasn’t fed before my scheduled time with him. I wanted to spend some time talking about the beginning of his day, but after learning that there wasn’t anything to eat he decided he didn’t want any company.

Well, I left the room and he went to sleep. I felt so bad for him, like I let him down. I spent an hour kind of taking care of other things, but couldn’t get him out of my mind. Finally, I went to his room where he was sitting up on his bed. I asked if he wanted something, but he said, “No”. He did want to spend time talking with me. I was happy about this, but still sad about the fact that he didn’t eat.

It wasn’t until a caregiver came in at about 4pm that my patient decided he would eat. The time that we spent together went well and I felt better. So my day with him ended with a happy heart.

I’ve learned that no matter what there’s always a chance for a happy ending. Whenever you can, try to look for your happy endings.

Cedric