Empathy and Compassion in Diabetes Education, How to Open the Gate
By Kim Campbell, MPH, RD, LDN, CDE
As an RD for over half of my lifetime, and a CDE for over 20 years, I always thought I had enough empathy for my patients. I was moved by the stories people told me about their diabetes, their lives, and their difficulties with managing their complex health demands. I cared, I was kind, I listened, I did my best to help with the education and ideas I had been trained to provide. I have said things like, “I understand”, “I know this sucks”, and “What can I do to help you?” I try to incorporate concepts of motivational interviewing into my visits with people ...