When You Listen, Every Word Matters.

For over two years, I have worked closely with specialists on legal cases involving accident victims. These patients visit the clinic six to seven months after their accidents for specialist examinations. 

So, these assessments aim to see how the injuries have impacted their daily functions. My job is to gather raw data from examinations, measurements, and specialist opinions and turn them into detailed reports. These reports will then be used to support insurance compensation claims.

The unspoken burdens

Most patients come to the clinic with traumatic injuries like lost limbs or the inability to move as they once did. The recovery process can be challenging, both physically and emotionally.

Without me even noticing at first, they begin to open up pieces of their lives. 

The stories are not just about their injuries but their fight to survive, the sacrifices they’ve made, and the struggles they face every single day.

Stories that stay with me

I will always remember the mother who sold her only car. Her only means of transportation, just to afford the surgery her son needed. She placed all her hopes on the insurance compensation to ease their financial burden.

Another story is a father who was once the backbone of his family, a man who spent his life working with his hands. Those same hands are now stiff, unable to do the simplest things.

I could see the sadness in his eyes. It wasn’t just his physical pain but the sense of helplessness and loss he felt. His wife, who had once leaned on him for support, now had to take care of everything. Their lives had changed in ways they never expected.

These stories are more than words.

They’ve taught me the courage it takes to keep going, even when life feels unbearable.

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When words aren’t enough, listening is.

Sometimes the best thing I can do isn’t offer advice or solutions, but simply be there and listen. Let them express their grief without trying to fix it.

When patients share their struggles, they don’t always need advice. What they need most is someone to hear them. I’ve seen people at their most vulnerable, and for me, it’s a privilege to witness such honesty and openness in someone who’s struggling. 

Deep down, I love being someone who listens and makes others feel seen and heard when they need it most.

Even though my former boss has moved on to the private sector and is no longer with UM, I’m still happy to help him out. I enjoy doing the work and supporting someone I respect.

And what I've learned is that fulfillment always comes from simple moments. It's being there for others, listening to them, and showing kindness. These small acts may seem simple, but for me, they bring true fulfillment and meaning to life.