Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/1519088
84 m a s s a g e & b o d y wo r k m ay/ j u n e 2 0 24 Caring and Competence By Douglas Nelson "Excuse me, aren't you Doug Nelson?" said a voice behind me. I was in the hallway of our newest clinic location that we share with a physical therapy clinic. A little surprised by the voice, I turned to face the woman who had approached me. The physical therapist with whom I was walking stopped to wait while I answered. "Yes, I am," I replied, scanning my memory banks to ascertain whether this was someone I knew. "I thought that might be you," she answered. "Is there something I can do for you?" I asked. "I don't know if you remember me, but I brought my husband to you many years ago. After a surgical procedure, he suffered from incurable hiccups that were driving both him and me over the edge. I don't know if you remember treating him." "I do remember," I said. It was an unusual case since I had never seen anyone with hiccups that lasted for many days. Truthfully, I don't think I had ever treated anyone for hiccups before then. That alone made it memorable. Before I could ask about her husband, she shared that he had passed away several years ago. I expressed my sympathy, and she continued. "I want to relay to you how much it meant to both of us that you cared enough to help him. No one else seemed to have answers or any desire to help us out of that difficult situation. I remember you researched the condition and told us you weren't sure this could help but would give it your absolute best. We have never forgotten your kindness and caring. I am so glad I ran into you today because we never got a chance to say thank you after that. Thank you for caring." After some parting words with her, the therapist and I continued to walk down the hallway. Critical Thinking | Table Lessons "Well, that was impressive," the therapist said. "What wonderful feedback to hear so many years later. It obviously meant a lot to her to say that to your face." "Wow," was all I could say in response, as I was still at a loss for words. "I have to ask," the therapist continued, "were you able to help her husband?" I looked at him quizzically. I would have thought the answer obvious, given what he just heard. Then it hit me— she did not say anything about the results, only the effort and concern. It was a perfectly appropriate question to ask. "Well, yes," I said. "Remarkably so." I then explained what I treated and why. KEY POINT • The care practitioners extend to clients, combined with dedication to their craft and skills, creates a powerful healing force.