Every so often, amidst the long hours and clinical demands of our work, we receive something that reminds us why we chose this path in the first place.
Recently, I was deeply moved by a card I received from the mother of one of my patients. Her daughter was paralyzed from the neck down following a devastating car accident in her early 30s. Despite enduring unimaginable hardship, she and her family radiate warmth, faith, and an unwavering sense of love.
This mother shared that she felt my presence and energy the moment I entered the room to care for her daughter. She told me I was “anointed.” Those are words I don’t take lightly. She gave me a gift—rosary beads and holy water from Lourdes, France—blessed by a priest and brought back from one of her husband’s pilgrimages to the grotto there. Alongside the gift, she included a handwritten card that brought tears to my eyes. She told me her prayer group prays for me regularly.
What humbles me most is that this family, who lost a son to a rare genetic disease and have endured so much suffering, continues to give. Their kindness, faith, and strength are constant reminders of the human spirit’s resilience. Despite everything, they choose joy, generosity, and love.
I’ve kept the holy water and have used it to bless others. It serves as a quiet symbol of hope in my office—a reminder that healing comes in many forms. Sometimes through surgery. Sometimes through prayer. Always through compassion.
Thank you to the whole family—for your gift, your faith, and for letting me be a part of your daughter’s journey.
🙏 Jim
