Bittersweet Moment for Psychiatrist Mom
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My pediatrician was a tall man who smiled often. He always knew what to do to make me feel better. I loved to see him. By the time I was 5 years old, I was certain that I wanted to be a doctor. I am a psychiatrist.
I have a young son who told me when he was 5 years old that he wanted to be a doctor. He will graduate from medical school in May, and he recently called me and told me he would be doing his residency in emergency medicine. I felt I should have some wise words, but none came to mind. I have not seen him in several months, but it feels longer. I am working in a hot spot that keeps getting hotter.
I still have not found the wise words to say to my son. I feel so many things—proud, worried, and anxious all at the same time. 2020 was a challenging year, and 2021 seems very similar. What a time to begin his journey! However, we need more young, eager, well-trained doctors to join us when so many of us have now become so tired. ■
ROBIN M. JOHNSON, M.D.
Pismo Beach, Calif.
