See this woman here? The one holding my daughter’s hand? This picture doesn’t even come close to showing how amazing this moment was.
Some background.
My 11-year-old daughter, Naomi, is terrified of needles. For two years, between her 9-year-old check-up and her 11-year-old check-up, she worried about the shot she would have to get. (By the way, she aced that appointment!) But even more than shots, she is afraid of blood draws. And yesterday, she had to get one.
That’s when Dr. Burgess, our wonderful pediatrician, stepped in. Dr. B knows how Naomi feels about needles. She could see the fear on Naomi’s face the moment she walked into the room.
The whole visit, she held Naomi’s hands.
What I didn’t capture in a photo (because I was crying) was the beautiful moment when Dr. B gently brushed Naomi’s hair back, held both of her hands, and spoke words of encouragement to my sweet, nervous girl.
She and the nurse coaxed, comforted, and supported Naomi through the blood draw. (Oh, there were tears and a lot of resistance, but Dr. B never let go of her hand!) And when it was all over, she stayed right by Naomi’s side, loving her, encouraging her, and reminding her how brave she was.
Naomi left the office angry, upset, and emotional. But today? This morning, she was talking about how kind and loving her doctor is and how grateful she is to have a doctor who truly cares about her.
As for me? My heart is still so full of gratitude for this woman who truly sees my child. Who cares enough to walk with her through something so scary.
This is a moment I will never forget.
Thank you, Dr. B! ❤️