I Owe This to George
Clinician Reviews. 2011 December;21(12):49-50
December 1, 2011 | Clinician Reviews
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Sometimes your experience with one patient encapsules your entire philosophy as a clinician. Kim Zuber shares her memories of George, who taught her to ask about people's lives, not just their ailments, and really listen to what they share in response.
I used to feel that patients should be told what to do. After 27 years of practice, I no longer believe that. I cannot cure your kidney disease; you will eventually die on me. All my patients do, just as George did. But I want my wake to be like George’s—with stories, and friends, and laughter. If we are to pass this way only once, let us enjoy the time we have together.
