I originally chose to go to podiatry school in NYC because of the diversity. I knew I would be able to experiment the treatment and management of unique pathologies I would not see elsewhere.

Along with the assortment of pathologies, came patients from all different backgrounds and cultures.

Last week I had 2 patients that made me realize how grateful I am everyday of all that I have been blessed with in life. Having the opportunity to meet, examine, and communicate with these patients made me feel like I can truly make a difference in someone’s day.

The first patient came with large ulcers on the top of both of their feet. The patient said that they had a variety of events in their life occur which led them unable to come to our clinic. The ulcers were present for a couple months and the patient was trying their best to keep them clean but they were not decreasing in size. The patient was very emotional – they expressed their fear of potentially losing their feet and how these ulcers prevented them from going on vacation to see family and from walking. I listened to the patient intently and praised them for coming to see us and reassured them that we will do our best to take care of them and to save their feet. I ended up seeing that patient again today in the hall and I smiled and said hello. I know life is hard for that patient now, but I am so happy that they are being persistent with their treatment.

The second patient was a bit harsh in the beginning. Sometimes you get patients that don’t really want to deal with students and just want to see the doctor and get out. I just started listening to the patient intently, letting them tell me their story and asking inquisitive questions when necessary. The patient was showing me pictures of their ulcers in different stages of healing. By fostering this connection with the patient, they allowed me to examine their feet before the doctor could come in to discuss surgery. When the doctor came and was asking about the patients living conditions, the patient said they were kicked out of their apartment for renovations and was currently living in a shelter. My heart sunk – this patient we thought was kind of being rude for not wanting to deal with the students was going through so much more than I could imagine. I was so thankful that I have an apartment that I share with someone I love and is a safe place to call home.

My goal as a doctor is to treat everyone with respect and care, no matter their background. My hope is to brighten their day at least a little bit, and allow them to release what is bothering them and perhaps make them smile and laugh.