Walking the walk, I found myself on the receiving end of healthcare the past few months. Endoscopies, screening, stress tests and scans, blood work, all in efforts to stay strong and healthy. There are so many ways, especially with cancer that our lives are upended, best to be as prepared as we can for the battle.

For one of these events, I was waiting in a lobby, when I had such a lovely surprise. The wall right in front of me carried a former patient’s name. The annex was built by a generous couple who gave a very large donation to enhance care in the community. It was 10 years ago that I vividly recall his sharing his vision. “Doc, when I am done here, I have a mission!” Here his own Doctor was ready to benefit from that very concept which came to fruition.

This reminds me that with the many testimonials and videos, even by doctors, complaining about insurers, the meeting this week and advocacy day on the Hill where our committees lobby for us, so often it’s one person that can make a difference in thousands of lives. Also, it is not only the monetary donations. Often the help and sacrifice come in a ride to the doctors, making a meal, or listening.

Generosity enters our lives in so many ways and recognition and appreciation is critical and keeps the spirit giving. It is wonderful now to take a moment and remember that while healthcare is in the cross-hairs and far from perfect, we can add perspective. A real benefit is when someone stands up and offers help to another.

It is usually at no cost but time, at no ability but the knowledge that someone is hurting, at no consequence but benefit to another. In an imperfect system, maintain hope. We can all be the solution- no authorization needed.