This watercolor piece depicts a hummingbird that ventures with freedom and purpose. How does it move freely with strength and hope – carrying with it painful inflamed cystic nodules or the itchy silvery white scales. We’ll only see the bird back in 4 weeks, what does she have that allows her to leave the clinic with peace and grit.
I realized, freedom does not simply arrive when all the swelling, pain, discomfort and angst is gone. The hummingbird moves with purpose because it knows it can always come back to a safe home. A warm care space with a physician who will listen and sit there with her to figure out how to support, nourish, and heal. She moves freely because she feels a sense of belonging at home, an environment that is kind, void of judgement, and filled to the brim with transparency and compassion. The hummingbird ventures with strength to take care of herself and her loved ones because she knows that she has a safe base, a secure support team, and a soul that can be there with intention through her struggles. Knowing that you’re not alone is all it takes to fly free, fulfill your purpose, and move with dignity.
Every dermatological patient that leaves our clinic after their visit is a hummingbird that is cared for, listened to, and valued unconditionally. These patients inspire us to continue creating a space conducive to nurturing a sense of belonging.
