Don't ever underestimate the power of your compassion as a veterinary professional
If you’ve ever had anyone close to you dying, you will know that the shock and the grief is just the first step on the road to wrapping up the life just gone.
My mum, bless her, had prepared as much as possible in preparation for that day (and had taken morbid satisfaction in letting me know where THE red folder was, over and over).
But obviously there is only so much you can prepare before leaving, and so it’s down to me to close down her bank accounts, cancel insurances and subscriptions etc etc.
It’s soul draining and leaves me empty and slightly dazed, so I’m doing it bit by bit (what’s the hurry anyway).
Today I took a jab at her car insurance. I presented myself in the nearest branch, ready with her death certificate.
The young man laughed because he had never seen an insurance running straight from 1992 (my mum was very loyal and would never have negotiated the ever rising price).
They were stunned over the fact they were losing a client, and talked over my head about what to do.
At the end, they shoved a paper into my hand with information about investing with them, and advised me to read it later.
Not at any point did they give the slightest sign of compassion or a kind word towards me considering they may have lost a client, but I just lost MY MUM.
I couldn’t help drawing a parallel to when owners lose a pet, and the incredible compassion, empathy and kindness any veterinary staff I have ever worked with will immediately show, considering we just lost a “customer” as well.
Don’t underestimate the power of showing your compassion and kindness.
It’s not taken for granted. Pet or parent, a loss is a loss 💔
It’s hard for a veterinarian (and any support staff) to lose a patient. Don’t be afraid to show your empathy and have that connection with the owners. It means more than you will ever know.
Often we feel helpless and powerless when we lose a patient, and beat ourselves up. But I want you to know that you're NOT helpless or powerless. Sometimes, just being truly human showing true emotions is enough.
(And I’m glad I'm able to have some compassion towards the insurance people, who obviously don’t know any better 🙄 )