Hello ACOI friends and colleagues.
Here we are with another holiday season upon us and the new year right around the corner. This holiday season, I hope you get to spend time with your family, friends, and loved ones. However, I know many of us will be working over the holidays. I have worked them all over the years. From New Years to Christmas and everything in between. Time away from the family this time of year can be particularly difficult, but I want to tell you a story that always helps me keep it in perspective.
I was scheduled to cover the hospital one Christmas about twenty years ago. All my kids were still at home, and my parents were in town. Of course, the kids were up early eager to open presents. After the presents were opened, I went to get ready for work while Mallory and my dad began to cook breakfast. As the family was gathered around the kitchen table, I grabbed a cup of coffee, gave out hugs and kisses, and headed out the door.
It was a cold gray day with a cold wind. As I made my way through town, the streets were empty and I felt alone. By the time I got to the hospital, I was feeling pretty sorry for myself, and I was resentful that I was the one working that day when I should have been home with my family. I hung up my coat in the medical staff lounge and donned my white and headed toward the staff elevator as my mood continued to sour. When I reached the elevator, the back doors of the kitchen opened. Hospital employee, Eddie, had two large carts that contained breakfast trays for the patients. He was pushing one and pulling the other when he looked up and saw me. A big smile came to his face, and he exclaimed “Merry Christmas, Dr. Baker!” I replied “Merry Christmas, Eddie,” but with far less enthusiasm.
I held the elevator door for him and asked him what floor he was going to. We were both headed to eight. As we rode the elevator to the top Eddie said to me, “You know what Dr. Baker?” “What’s that, Eddie?” And what he said next to me has had an impact on me to this very day. Eddie proclaimed, “We are so blessed!” I asked him, “How so, Eddie?” He remarked, “Because we get to be here on Christmas Day helping these people that need our help.” This is from the man who worked in the cafeteria. At first, I felt a bit ashamed, then sadness, then relief, and finally I smiled and said, “Thank you Eddie, you have no idea how bad I needed that.” As I moved on through my day, I kept Eddie’s words in my heart. After rounds were completed and the charts were all done, I made my way home and I was feeling good about the day knowing that I had made a difference for my patients.
This holiday season, I ask that you remember that as osteopathic physicians, we are blessed. We have been given a gift and an opportunity to help those that need us. I wish you all a safe and happy holidays. If you have to work or be away from your family, I want you to think about Eddie.
Until next time,
Damon