A Special Moment for Diya

Once when I was volunteering as an official medical Spanish interpreter at a free clinic, the supervisors requested me to interpret for several behavioral health patients. I was elated to apply my Spanish skills to a different area of the clinic! Little did I know that I would be able to advocate for mental health awareness to patients at the behavioral health center of the free clinic! 

As I entered the room, the counselor briefed me about the patient from the notes. While we waited for the patient, the counselor inquired about my interests and interviewed me informally about my mental health awareness activities and my website! She was elated to know that I not only practiced, but also taught others box breathing and other meditative techniques. Once the patient arrived, we started with some basic diagnostic questions. Later, the counselor wanted the patient to try some box breathing due to her anxiety about her son's condition. It was a special moment for me to conduct the box breathing to the patient in Spanish. Since the counselor was on Zoom call during the visit, I was able to offer comfort for the patient by physically being present to lead the deep breathing exercises in a language that the patient could understand. Being an interpreter gives me a sense of deep satisfaction. I am able to help the patient who looks desperately at me to translate what the physician just said. I am grateful to have the opportunity to provide the patients with a sense of hope that there is someone who can help bridge the gap between the patient and the doctor and overcome the language barriers in accessing healthcare. 

As I walked out the room, I came to a poignant realization - I longed for the next chance to offer comfort.