When My Doctor Couldn’t Save My Pregnancy, He Did the Next Best Thing
A moment of profound loss transforms into a lesson on the power of empathy in patient care. After the sudden loss of a healthy, midterm twin pregnancy, oncologist Ranjana Srivastava experienced first-hand the impact a physician’s kindness can have during a patient’s darkest hours. Despite the inability to save her pregnancy, her obstetrician’s compassionate response—highlighted by a personal letter acknowledging her pain—offered a beacon of support that profoundly shaped her approach to medicine.
This story underscores the critical role of empathy and moral guidance in healthcare, extending beyond clinical outcomes to touch patients’ lives meaningfully. It reminds us that amidst modern healthcare’s technological and systemic complexities, showing compassion can leave an indelible mark on a patient’s journey through grief and healing.
Srivastava’s reflection not only celebrates the depth of the doctor-patient relationship but also calls upon health professionals to recognize the enduring value of kindness and understanding in their practice.
When My Doctor Couldn’t Save My Pregnancy, He Did the Next Best Thing (Srivastava, Guardian, 1/16).
