The Mighty Logo

What I Want Aspiring Doctors to Know as a Chronically Ill Patient

The most helpful emails in health
Browse our free newsletters

Dear aspiring doctor,

Congratulations to you on having the brains and drive to set your sights on medical school. I’ve run into a few people like you, in dorms, classrooms and in hospitals. For some of you I am happy to know you will be in the medical field. Others, not so much.

 

The most striking interaction I’ve had with a future doctor was my freshman year of college. Freshman year was full of ups and downs for me health-wise. If anything, it was one of the worst health years of my life, but it came at a time when I was less open. My friends knew I had some health problems going on, but it wasn’t something I went around advertising.

I was in the elevator when I met a future doctor. My health came up, and they said some things I’ll never forget. In almost the same breath I was asked whether I had made a wish through the Make-a-Wish Foundation and if they could come to my funeral. The insensitivity and rudeness made me realize something that has stuck with me: some people just shouldn’t be doctors.

I’ve seen a lot of doctors in my life and the great ones and the terrible ones are what stands out. The terrible ones aren’t bad at science; in fact, some are highly published in their fields, but they are inconsiderate, especially when it comes to rare or chronic patients. But, that is not OK. I have heard too many stories of people crying in doctors’ offices and being dismissed, sometimes even for years.

If you are out there aspiring to be a doctor, I want you to think long and hard about your reasons. If pleasing your family, making money or wanting a “Dr.” in front of your name is a reason, I want you to think again. Becoming a doctor is a long and hard path, and there is no reason to do it if you are doing it for shallow reasons.

As a doctor you hold lives in your hands. Treat them with care.

Sincerely,

A chronic and rare patient

Follow this journey on Chronically Tate.

We want to hear your story. Become a Mighty contributor here.

Thinkstock photo via KTM_2016.

Originally published: August 30, 2017
Want more of The Mighty?
You can find even more stories on our Home page. There, you’ll also find thoughts and questions by our community.
Take Me Home