I am blessed to have the opportunity to attend Shari Bookstaff’s, inspiring presentation by which focused on the critical role of empathy in healthcare. She provided presentations for our respiratory care students working towards their Associate of Science in Respiratory Care.

Shari’s story was both moving and impactful, as she shared her own personal journey of undergoing what was supposed to be a routine medical procedure, only to discover she had a brain tumor. This unexpected diagnosis led to a year-long hospitalization, during which she faced numerous physical and emotional challenges.

Throughout the presentation, Shari emphasized the importance of connecting with patients on a human level. She reminded students that beyond the clinical skills they are developing, their ability to empathize and communicate with patients will be vital throughout their careers. One of the most memorable moments was when Shari spoke about her love for marine mammals. She described how her spirits would lift when healthcare professionals engaged her in conversations about whales, dolphins, and other marine creatures during her hospital stay. This not only brought her comfort but also helped her practice her speech, as she would try to pronounce the species names—a therapeutic exercise in itself.

Shari also incorporated a hands-on activity that left a strong impression on the students. She asked them to breathe through a straw, simulating the difficulty of breathing with an artificial airway, which is something she personally experienced when she had to wear a tracheostomy tube. This exercise allowed the students to physically experience the challenge of restricted breathing, reinforcing the importance of compassionate care for patients who face these types of conditions.

Additionally, Shari led an exercise where the students had to hold their arms up until she gave them permission to lower them. This activity was designed to give students a sense of what it feels like to lose control over their body—an experience many patients endure due to illness or medical treatments. It served as a powerful reminder of the vulnerability patients feel and the need for empathy and understanding from their caregivers.

Overall, Shari’s presentation was incredible. It not only provided valuable lessons on empathy and patient care but also gave students a deeper understanding of the human side of healthcare. I wholeheartedly believe that her message is essential for all future respiratory care professionals, and I would love to see Shari invited to present to every future cohort of students. Her story and insights are a gift to the healthcare field, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of it.

Thank you, Shari, for your courage and for sharing your story with us.