Boxing Day and a Visit to the CityMD

Today is a holiday in many places around the world—Boxing Day. The name originates from the tradition of unboxing Christmas gifts on this day. While I didn’t have to work, I did visit City MD, an urgent care facility, to complete some work-related physicals. I had mentioned this plan briefly a few days ago, but the experience turned out to be far more meaningful than I anticipated.

When I arrived, the place was packed—a stark reminder that not everyone enjoyed a joyful or healthy Christmas yesterday. The sheer number of sick individuals was a sobering testament to the fragility of life. The waiting area was a sea of masked faces, constant coughing, and an overwhelming sense of discomfort. It was impossible not to feel the weight of the collective unease.

 I wished I could have waited in my car, entering only when it was my turn, but there wasn’t a system in place to notify people. Instead, I endured the unsettling environment, hoping to get through it quickly.  

Amidst the chaos, I had an unexpected encounter with a former colleague from my time at Good Samaritan Hospital. Let’s call her Dee. Despite the crowded room, I immediately recognized her. She was pleasantly surprised that I remembered her name and the floor she worked on. During our brief exchange, she shared that she’s still at Good Samaritan but has since transitioned to a different department.  

This nostalgic moment took me back to a chapter of my career I hadn’t thought about in a while. It reminded me of the enduring connections we forge in our professional lives, which can resurface in the most unexpected places.  

When my name was called, a young woman escorted me to Room 3. She pointed to the familiar chair, and I sat down as she explained the process. The routine was one I knew well, having undergone the same physicals just this past August. She worked efficiently and soon left, saying someone else would be in for specimens before the physician arrived. 

 Shortly after, a personable young woman entered. She introduced herself as Cee, a University of Michigan graduate with a neuroscience background I would later learn. She shared her aspirations of attending medical school, and her passion was evident as she handled her tasks with care and professionalism.  Oh yes, I make it a point to engage with and get to know the people I interact with.

Finally, the provider came in and completed the physicals. She was kind and thorough, ensuring everything was in order. I also got to learn that she was from Iran. Her interactions with me were impeccable. 

After four long hours, I left the facility with a mix of relief and reflection. The sluggish pace of urgent care and employee medicine was frustrating, but the experience served as a poignant reminder of the connections we build and the humanity we encounter in unexpected moments.  

Wishing everyone a healthy Christmas and holiday season.  

Stay well and safe

God bless,  

Pal Ronnie