I loved your post. I just wanted to say that I hope you will let this doctor know directly and in detail exactly how he was exceptional and the importance this had for you. I am sure he would appreciate your gratitude, but more importantly it may raise his awareness as to the importance of his way of being attentive, and of the need to encourage this within the medical profession, indeed, making a part of “how they [are] all trained”.

Not only does it make oyou and your son feel calmer and safer (by itself this would increases positive medical outcomes), but he is accessing potentially vital information from you, the person who knows the details of the current situation and prior history the best.

And yes, everything's back to normal with the family, thanks for the well
wishes.

I have a hard time with expectations, because when they're set we believe a certain protocol, belief or action will happen and it's easy to be let down. However, for myself, I set the expectation to always go above and beyond. This bodes well in the work place, with friends, family and even to strangers on the street.

I hope all is well with your family. Thank you for sharing, even if it's a personal matter. I was touched by the Doctor and his sincere kindness.

I suggest you take a look at Grace Boyle's blog: Small Hands, Big Ideas. She wrote something similar this week, about the little things that matter. Let me tell you the same thing I told her: the little things make a difference, because the big things are everywhere. To be remarkable, you have to pay attention to detail. Maybe it's your business, or maybe it's a patient, the important thing is to go for that extra inch, to give that extra effort.

@David You mention a habit, and I think that's a great way to look at it. Forming a new (positive) habit of giving just a little bit more. Hmm. I will try that as well.

I think you're absolutely right, it doesn't take much extra energy at all to be remarkable. It's a mystery why it's so uncommon. I will try to remember to be remarkable today, in everything I do. What a great habit that would be.

Wishing you best.