This piece is inspired by an encounter during my HCA shift, where I met two patients whose contrasting attitudes deeply impacted me. Both underwent procedures, yet their responses to recovery and interactions with others couldn’t have been more different  -challenging my assumptions based on their case notes and my own experiences.

One patient had a negative, self-destructive outlook, coupled with unrealistic expectations about recovery. Despite the care provided, their persistent high pain levels and emotional energy created a heavy atmosphere. Staff, myself included, found it difficult to connect, often feeling drained or avoided engaging fully.

In contrast, the other patient approached recovery with optimism and grace. Their positivity made caregiving feel meaningful—you could see progress and a genuine connection. This highlighted how mindset can influence not only personal recovery but also relationships with those around them.

The experience taught me that patient expectations matter. The first patient believed recovery would be instant after the procedure, which led to frustration. This underlined the importance of clear communication—not just about the procedure, but also the healing timeline. It also challenged my assumptions: a more serious procedure doesn’t always result in a more negative response. Everyone processes their situation uniquely.

To express this, I created a mobile and a poem. The mobile uses doves and ravens to symbolize hope and despair. Its physical nature contrasts with the intangible poem—mirroring the unseen emotions behind patient behaviours.

Ultimately, contrast exists everywhere and recognising it helps us grow beyond biases and connect more deeply.