Our Iranian physician [View all]

Wife had an appointment today with a new nephrologist -- we are switching docs because we moved.

The doc spoke perfect English with a very slight accent. We knew his name was Middle Eastern of some sort. He was friendly, attentive, thorough, explained everything he said, explained all the changes in meds and diet. Explained kidney issues -- wife is Type II diabetic, which leads to chronic kidney issues.

As we were wrapping up, we both thanked him for being so kind, thorough, and attentive. Wife asked him where he graduated from medical school -- TEHRAN. We were silent for a minute. He then went on to explain that he had follow-on fellowships, internship, and residencies at George Washington U. med center in DC.

I then commented to him that I have been reading how a lot of medical personnel in the US, including physicians, are here on visas and they may face problems with remaining here. He replied "Yes, that's true and it is causing a lot of worry."

He then smiled from ear to ear and said: "I left Iran in 2003 and am proud to be an American citizen!!"

Then his demeanor changed, he became suddenly sad and said -- "I have never been back home."

We each gave him a big hug. I mean, what can you do? What can you say?

You never know what burden others are carrying. He's supposed to be caring for us while carrying such a load. Who is caring for him?