As an oncologist, it’s inevitable that some patients pass away over the years. Some patients and their families really stay with you. I was thinking of many of them today. Cancer leaves so many holes in so many people’s lives.

I was thinking of what some of my patients would have thought of this #covid19 pandemic. I watched the snow fall as I was leaving the hospital this evening and I could almost hear the voice of a former patient telling me to be careful on my drive.

I know my patients lives, but they know mine too. They watched me grow both as a clinician (and physically when I was pregnant). I have heard about their kids and grandkids and they have heard about my family. The doctor patient relationship is such a special one.

I don’t know if my patients and their families know that I carry them with me, even after they are gone. I think of them and their families often. And every day I feel grateful to be able to do what I do.

#ThoseWeCarry