I have been blessed as the recipient of much kindness, and each and every act demonstrates to me the power of love and compassion.

For many years, I have worked in radiology, teaching ultrasound and specializing in Ob/Gyn. Working with expectant mothers is extremely rewarding, although when complications are involved, it can be heartbreaking. On one such occasion when I was seeing a patient and her husband who were so excited about their upcoming blessed event of a beautiful baby, I had to deliver the devastating news that their child would have multiple severe deformities. As always, I was deeply affected by this news, but tried to maintain a professional demeanor. As I shared the results of her ultrasound, I could not believe it when instead of reacting in tears, shock, or depression, my patient instead reached out to comfort me. I’ll never forget her words as she said to me, “It’s O.K. honey, everything is all right, don't you cry now.”

I have been deeply humbled many times by the courage and faith of people from all walks of life. These loving souls have inspired me in times of challenge and seeming despair to pull myself up, rather than down. Through these acts of kindness, I believe that I have been able to spread to others that contagion of hope, love, faith, and compassion. For the simple words of comfort and the many seemingly insignificant acts of kindness, I am so deeply grateful.