That One Client

I came across a quote on Facebook, and it said, "Every Nurse has that one patient that they'll remember forever." It also had a "red cross symbol" on it.  It immediately made me think about my career as a social worker, and the fact that there is also that one client that I will remember forever.

I don't think I'll ever forget a certain young male. He was in his early 20's. It was a very complex case, and this young man had a terminal illness. I learned a lot about hope, culture, Multiple Sclerosis, family dynamics, stigma, shame, the health care system, financial stressors, the social system, allied health care professionals, death, and so much more.

It made me think about changing that quote about nurses, so I made my own quote: "Every Social Worker has that one client that will be remembered forever." I am also wondering if this is true for every helping professional? I believe it is an honour to be part of people's lives in their times of need, and we learn so much about ourselves and others. Some of those people and families will never be forgotten.

Warm regards,

Angela G. Gentile, MSW RSW
Specialist in Aging
www.AngelaGGentile.com