Greeted with thoughtfulness, genuine concern and caring

By Charles Crandall

Charles, of Ashland, shared this story via email. Click here to share your story.

On Dec. 9, 2013, I presented at the Radiology Department for a CT scan at 9 a.m. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by the most friendly, and caring person that I’ve had the pleasure of meeting in recent memory, with respect to my last several doctor’s appointments and evaluations.

After introducing herself, it was obvious that she could tell that I was apprehensive of the pending CT scans.

Rather than being indifferent or too busy, she quietly asked me to come closer to her. She had such a warm presence about her that I did, without thought. She then asked me if I was all right. I told her that I was a little nervous, which wasn’t exactly true, as I was more than a little nervous. She then put her hand my shoulder and said, “You’re going to be okay.”

That one gesture, a simple, caring touch, had the most calming effect, and I believed her. For the next two hours, she periodically looked over to me and asked if I was okay and offered a smile each time.

I have no words to express my most sincere gratitude for her thoughtfulness and genuine concern and caring. While I did not get her name, I won’t soon forget her.

While I’m at it I would also like to commend the CT tech that took my history and prepped me for the exam (IV contrast). He was also very nice.

Overall, my entire experience at Radiology was positive, but she really made a difference.