Respect: A Two-Way Street

Abstract

Respectful communication is really valued by parents of medically complex kids. Invite me into the dialogue and ask my opinion, or at the very least, respect my concerns. In our world, we have been forced to become experts in a field we did not choose. I dare to say that I have performed CPR on a coding patient more times than most doctors. I do not need a trophy for that, but it would be nice to hear every once in a while, “Good job mom. You are clearly doing your best and have gone to great lengths for your child.” I can see how a resident neurosurgeon wants to feel some respect for their years of grueling work to get where they are. But so do I.