Friendships You Don’t Expect

I work with some truly exceptional human beings.

Sometimes the people I work with also become my healthcare providers… it’s the occupational hazard of working in a small medical community.

I’ve spoken about my surgeon a few times over the last few months. I didn’t meet her before I was in her office for my consult. But, I worked with her team for months before.

Since returning to work, I have found that I have gained a trusted friend.

Last week, my BFF was admitted to the hospital and was in the worst shape I have ever seen her in all her health hiccups. I left the hospital in turmoil. Not knowing if I was ever going to see my friend again.

The person I turned to in that moment, was my surgeon. And, I quickly apologized because it was late in the day, well after business hours and nothing to do with my health or work in general. 

She said something in her response that has significant meaning for me.

I said: Sorry to bother you. Not many people I trust right now.

Her response: I hope she is much better in the morning!  You are never bothering me!  I hope you get some rest!🙏

Years ago, and occasionally when my brain is a bully. I cope by shutting down and internalize everything going on in life, particularly the hard stuff. The last time I said sorry to bother you to someone was during one of these periods of unhealthy coping. I was told: “you are not a bother, you’re a blessing.”

I don’t know if that’s the context my surgeon meant… but the reminder that she chooses to answer my texts and be part of my life outside of the office was much needed.

I am truly humbled.