In honor of Mother’s Day I’d like to use this blog to reflect on the dedication of women and my immense appreciation for their commitment to supporting and caring for the youngest and oldest among us.

Here’s why I’m inspired to share this.

As a geriatrician, it is a privilege to be surrounded by the caregivers who serve their senior loved ones. Commonly it is a female who accepts the role of caregiver in families.

Most every day I interact with a wife, daughter, daughter-in-law, sister or niece while managing the care of my patients. They have an incredible responsibility and handle it with unwavering compassion, patience and confidence.

Back at home, as a father of seven, five of them girls, I enjoy watching them grow into caring, empathetic, helpful young ladies. I look at them and wonder what role they will assume as adults. My wife serves as a wonderful example of a dedicated caregiver as she manages our household with grace and love.

Just recently I observed another impressive example of caregiving when I attended an assembly at the elementary school where three of my daughters attend. All of the children were seated on the floor and the teachers and staff surrounded them along the periphery of the gymnasium. I was struck by the presence of women watching over, teaching and leading these children.

In both my medical practice and in my personal life I have witnessed first-hand the enormous difference caregivers make in the lives of those they care for.

I want to take this time to salute our Mothers and all the other caregivers that make our lives so much better.