How this all started - very short version

When I first got into medicine it was to provide a service to society while also being able to learn more about science. When I was in med school (mid 2000s), it seemed like Type 2 Diabetes was not very prevalent and only in older adults. It was rare to see a patient with Type 2 diabetes need insulin regularly. The ratio of Type 1 DM and Type 2 DM in the ED seemed pretty equal. Now not so much. Type 2 DM has taken over. And it’s not like anyone in healthcare, providers, nursing, leadership, didn’t see this coming. The US patient population was getting older and living longer, 70% of our calories come from processed foods, convenience has taken over our lives as much as the perceived need for bigger/faster/better. And one major healthcare insurer recently commented on how astonished they were about so many older patients needing the so much healthcare. Why is this a surprise to them and not everyone else?

What should not be a surprise coming is the number of people in need of healthy, affordable food. Just because some SNAP dollars are going away doesn’t mean the need goes away. It will grow behind the scenes, and only us few will know about it because we can see the faces everyday.

Engagement with those we are donating too as our sisters and brothers. Showing empathy through listening to learn rather than react. Knowledge is as empowering as the food provided.

Engagement, empathy, empowerment.

My new service to society is to engage with those I am serving food to. Listen with an empathetic ear and learn form their experiences. Finally, to provide requested learning experiences to empower.