Chapter 42 - The Young Resident Returns
During Noah's annual checkup, Emma was surprised to see Dr. Sofia Patel greeting patients on her own.
She had completed another year of pediatric training.
"It's good to see you again," Dr. Patel said warmly.
Noah climbed onto the examination table without hesitation.
"I got taller."
"I can already tell."
She carefully measured his height and weight before performing the routine examination.
Everything looked excellent.
While Noah colored dinosaurs on a sheet of paper, Dr. Patel turned toward Emma.
"I still remember meeting your family during my first month here."
Emma smiled.
"So do I."
"You know," Dr. Patel continued, "I've had several parents apologize for bringing their children in because they worried they were overreacting."
Emma nodded.
"I remember feeling that way."
"I always tell them the same thing."
She paused.
"I'd rather evaluate a child who turns out to be perfectly healthy than have a family stay home because they were afraid of bothering us."
Emma appreciated those words.
Years earlier, she had almost convinced herself to wait until morning.
Now she understood why reassurance sometimes mattered just as much as treatment.
Before they left, Noah handed Dr. Patel another drawing.
This one showed a doctor wearing a bright headlamp beside a smiling child.
Dr. Patel laughed.
"I think I know exactly who inspired this."
Noah grinned.
"Doctors help people."
May you like
"They certainly do."
As Emma watched the exchange, she realized a new generation of pediatricians was continuing the same thoughtful approach she had first experienced with Dr. Harris.
