Touchy Feely

"I have the perfect gown we tailored just for you," the nurse practitioner said today. "It is a Vera Wang and you are going to look fabulous in it." She pulled out the standard hospital gown and stroked the threadbare cotton as I chuckled. It felt good to laugh. The condition I need to have checked out does not seem serious, but I still felt anxious.

Gertie was practicing her empathy skills, I guess. She took my medical history, which is mostly fine, then began to examine my breasts. She said, "you are feeling very worried but you have come to the right place. The doctor is so good, and she will take care of you."

Later on, she commented, "You're sweet." I was startled and responded, "I am?" How does she know? Then, when the exam was over, she HUGGED me. I am not too touchy feely, but the hug just seemed human and caring, and to be just what I needed then. I said, "thanks," sincerely.

I am switching to this clinic, too. They made my day.