Photo has been used for illustrative purposes.

Mariecar Jara-Puyod, Senior Reporter

They are the frontliners and have been hailed as “heroes” we could not live without in these distressing times.

But since our conception, they have already been a part of our lives until we breathe our last—for some of us while we only remember to drop by them when in discomfort.

Well, March 30 every year is their special day since 87 back when Eudora Brown Almond, wife of Dr. Charles Almond from Georgia (USA) thought of honoring physicians and their wives through letters and red carnations—even the deceased—and in celebration of the contribution of Dr. Crawford Long in the 1800s of the first administration of ether as a surgical anesthetic to his patient.

Let us hear from them.

Al Zahra Hospital-Dubai Interventional Cardiology consultant Dr. Rajeev Lochan, since childhood “wanted to have part of drawing smiles (from) patients” having been exposed to their suffering and joy through what he had seen and experienced in his uncle’s clinic.

He was a working medical student at a government hospital when he decided to become a cardiologist in Leicester, UK.

“The most difficult part is breaking the news of an unsuccessful treatment or death to a family. I don’t think that there is anything that can prepare anyone to hear this. I try my best to update them (every step of the way) and to be sensitive. Showing empathy to the family is really the best thing a doctor can offer in such times.”

Avivo Group Dermatology specialist Dr. Majd Alzoughbi was studying at the university and at that time her mother got a viral infection in her face skin, and she suffered a lot, this encouraged Dr. Majd to specialise in dermatology.

“To be a doctor is something stimulating and interesting. Medical doctors know they get to help people solve problems every single day. The absolutely hardest part is giving a bad news or not giving hope for a cure. It is also most difficult dealing with short-tempered patients and relatives. I am keeping up with technology. I improve my communication with patients. I manage chronic cases (to the best I can).”

VPS Healthcare Group medical director Dr. Nabil Debouni wanted to help people with ailments.

“A recent survey (showed) the fourth most trusted profession is the doctor. It is satisfying that we help alleviate the suffering of a fellow human being. But, it is painful when you cannot give a cure and you feel helpless. It is also most difficult when patients do not take the doctor’s advice. The way to overcome it is to keep on trying and never give up.”

To all the physicians and medical specialists, salute!