Thank you, health care workers

Every year at this time I consider the people to whom I owe the most gratitude.

This is year it is healthcare workers: nurses, doctors, social workers, therapists, and even the reception and office staff.

I’m grateful to all the people who helped deal with my father‘s cancer and the end of his life. The hospice workers were amazing and so helpful and sensitive. They allowed my family to concentrate as much as possible on the emotional side of things, which was a huge help. If you do this, just know that we, your patients and your patients’ families, are grateful.

As I have grown into my sixties, my wife and have needed help from more specialists in our new home here in Maine. Without exception, everyone we have dealt with has been smart, clear, knowledgeable, respectful, sensitive, and helpful. When you are navigating a new health care system, that is essential.

It has been a rough few years for health care workers. If you’ve lived and work through this, just know that there are people like myself and my family who are grateful to you. You are at your best when we are at our worst, and that makes all the difference.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.