Empathy: The Human Connection to Patient Care

[@crissy217]

I was an actress in this video (too shocked to comprehend diagnosis), and friends with most of the other actors but I still cry EVERY time i watch it! So proud to be part of this video and appreciative of the Cleveland Clinic for creating and sharing it with the world. We can all learn from this.

[@bobbyreilly6250]

Thank you ❤ One of my favorite videos of all time

[@feryalhaghanipour9701]

Thanks for sharing it. I cried too. The biggest lesson of it is Empathy. We need each other forever.❤

[@losangelesrams3472]

You were the “shocked” patient? Or were you the nurse trying to explain the treatment options? Both actresses did extremely well in their respective roles.

[@donniejean]

I’ve been watching this for years. I still cry every time as well. 😢❤

[@joweaver7705]

One of THE BEST videos about empathy of all time!

[@georgesipl4595]

I just "finished" battling cancer when I wrote the music for this. I'm pleased that you all enjoyed it! I'm quite pleased to be healthy again as well! George Sipl

[@devoncarter5004]

Where can I find the music for this video?

[@johnharris49]

That is so awesome and thoughtful. We just don't know what goes on behind the shell people see on the outside. Very soothing music and very touching video.

[@atangapaul1141]

Thanks.

[@cheringuyen498]

Beautiful music. Thank you!!

[@AaM-gx7xh]

Well it's great job well done you start with heart end with love

[@noa7446]

I'm a med school student- first watched it during one of the classes called "humans & medicine". Since then I watch it once in a while. Just as a reminder in order to keep myself modest and compassionate.

[@pphilip8253]

+noa, thanks for being alert and sensitive! Please do not let the system changes you. Best wishes to reach your goal in your med school.

[@animechill2729]

same here noa

[@mitrimitri6503]

Very human and worship of God.

[@charleskidney4279]

Be careful, I have met too many detached, apathetic doctors and nurses. People in the game too long.

[@mindymjohal]

I work in healthcare (non-clinical) and always watch it here and there! Beautifully created and still makes me teary eyed.

[@TheMissgingermay]

That had me in tears - as a nurse but now also a patient with an incurable cancer this is so relevant. Brilliant. Well done Cleveland Clinic 10/10

[@LilitAbrahamyan]

Christine ...Hope you are doing better now

[@firask9774]

i hope you defeat this disease, for you and for the ones that love you... stay strong

[@Glokirk]

Firas Khraisat mm

[@science-y9209]

how are you now ? its two years after....

[@maryem8263]

How are you

[@azkiley]

Instructors had us watch this in nursing school. I watched it several times since, including today, the 10 year anniversary of becoming an RN. Thank you Cleveland Clinic for producing such a valid teaching video that hits the heart every single time.

[@mariannegoldweber1577]

My sister and her team at the Cleveland Clinic created this award-winning video. I watch it frequently to remind myself of the power and healing of compassion. And no matter how busy we are, that we're all facing things that we may not know about. Empathy is what connects us to each other as humans on this journey. ❤❤❤❤❤

[@amybunker8539]

Is there anyway I can send you an email to get the names of the creators of this video? I’m a Nurse Educator and I need permission to use and an MP3.

[@clevelandclinic]

Hello - You can reach out to our newsroom for information on this video. [e-mail] Thank you

[@robleeg]

I was showed this as a CNA in orientation at a Nursing Home. Excellent video. I was almost in tears. You never know what someone is going thur. Every Healthcare Worker should be shown this.

[@jeffberenholtz4834]

Upon beginning my Masters in Healthcare Administration degree, my professor showed us this video and closed by saying, "if you didn't feel something from watching this video, you do not belong in the health care industry." This could not be more true, and more accurate. Each time I watch this video, it almost brings me to tears and then reminds me of how lucky I am to work in the health care industry and how empowered I am to arrive at work and do my absolute best.

[@peterhamlinhamlin8908]

I did feel something.....'I was not in tears, My feelings varied from the patient waiting for three hours to another in pain to another with a benign tumor. Perhaps empathy is tears perhaps understanding perhaps treatment????

[@peterhamlinhamlin8908]

Dentist retired after 40 years practice teaching , observing

[@VoltaireVI]

Hi Jeff, In the USA you call it the "Healthcare Industry"? That´s disgustingly inhuman.

[@truthful316]

I saw this over a year ago when working at the hospital. I posted it, but nobody responded. I hoped this clip would go viral for the valuable message and lesson it provides. May God Bless those seeing it. ♥

[@VoltaireVI]

A speaker in a TED Talk mentioned this so I came here.

[@KbpVerma]

God bless you its Viral Now ❤️

[@samiyagimondo8330]

I’m watching this for nursing school course but this hit so close to home. 6 years ago i was that mother walking up to have my sons meet their dad for the last time who was dying to cancer. This shook my heart a little. I so put myself in others shoes everyday. Thank you for spreading the awareness.

[@megan2176]

I watched this yesterday at a HEART workshop for work, and it had me in tears. It should be required viewing for everyone on the planet. Such a simple message, but very well presented! Thanks so much! :)

[@debraarmstrong2956]

I have had 2 heart surgeries and for some reason, God is keeping me here for now and I am very appreciated I have 2 sons one is ADHD I believe I'm here for him, god willing.

[@als500]

Me too :(

[@bremenfan29]

Megan I feel like all hospitals watch this video now.

[@Ms.ERICA.]

I cry every time I watch this, no matter what. This is a life changing video.

[@Neishalovee815]

Does anyone else cry when they watch this? I graduate from nursing school in december!!!

[@poh6887]

I cried .Do you know what it means ?

[@nabjani]

Yes. So touching... I watched two more ads like this one.

[@ElKiwiProductions]

Every time Nurse Robinson

[@Lavatera66]

I did

[@guerisondivine8368]

yes

[@chanroobi7460]

I show this to my staff once a year just to center everyone around why we are healthcare workers.

[@remotework]

Hello Chan, are you a physician? I'm doing research on how Canadian physicians have responded to this video. It would be great to receive a response from you. Many thanks!

[@LindaBrandtmph]

What a great video for helping us all snap out of our bubbles and pay attention to others in a caring way.

[@metacomet2066]

We were shown this yesterday at our new-employee hospital training. Never thought the very next day, my first day on the job, I'd be hugging a lady who just broke down crying in front of me while checking her out from her doctor appointment. She said this was the first time she'd been in the see the doctor by herself after losing her husband. I just kept thinking about this video, had to come home tonight and watch it again. Powerful. Thank you, Cleveland Clinic.

[@caitlinobrien273]

My Criminal Justice professor showed us this video in class today, saying that even though it's our job to put away criminals...our bigger job is to connect with the people we're protecting. To try and understand them, so that we can help them, as that is our job in the big picture. To help people and keep others safe. I'm proud to be studying to become a cop, especially after hearing him say that.

[@jojoelephant]

I am happy to know that you like this video too!

[@rachkate76]

Unfortunately it along with health care are riddled with bigotry and inequality.

[@js33430]

I've been in healthcare almost 40 years.. I bet I've seen this video 6 or 7 times, and I still cry like a baby everytime.

[@travelnurseadventures3225]

me too

[@nancyoffenhiser4916]

I saw this was posted over 9 years ago. It is such a beautiful video. I want to thank everybody involved with making it. Post COVID, we are seriously lacking in empathy in this country. I pray that this video will touch some hearts and open them back up again. Thank you for the good work that you do, Cleveland Clinic

[@WambuiKamau61]

Went through this today in class, after going through the empathetic "skill" just realised empathy isn't putting yourself in other people's shoe, it's being kind and understanding through difficult times.

[@gonzalovarela829]

Teaching surgery more than 30 years, I've included this video many times in lectures. Thanks for editing and publishing!!!

[@6a2kKTBkc]

As a volunteer in a VA Hospice Unit I really appreciated watching this video. It is a stark reminder about those we are trying to give comfort and support to. It was introduced to us by the VA Chaplain and I highly recommend it to anyone who volunteers in any level of medical care. Actually I recommend it to everyone.

[@galaxyrose15]

I'm watching this at home so I have a chance to cry with it because whenever it is played in my class or at work I have to choke it back. It's a beautiful video.

[@acookiebi]

Ok exactly me right now

[@kaiyudakilla]

Me😭

[@joshfreeman3840]

This is about so much more than healthcare. All of us who interact with or need to understand others, who seek to put ourselves in their shoes for many, many reasons, need empathy. Imagine the state of our politics, of our world, if we were able to do this more often. What a gift this video is to anyone who serves others in any capacity - from healthcare to design to restaurants to technology to art, and on and on and on,

[@jamesneustadt8350]

This is one of the most meaningful, inspiring videos I have seen. Great for everyone to see, not only in the hospital setting but, at work, home, everywhere. Thank YOU Cleveland Clinic!!

[@MH_Prof]

As a patient, I have been in many of these situations. Watching this, I couldn’t help but cry. All I wanted at the time was for somebody to know me as a person in distress and understand. I wasn’t just a case. I was a hurting human being with a soul. Thank you for this.

[@pqf30]

This is so beautiful. Everyone has a story. If we could simply try to walk in their shoes, everything changes. Its all a matter of perspective.

[@kordapya4563]

this is so heart crushing, didnt realize I am crying. It helps me understand my patients better and understanding what they are going through. Hear what they hear, see what they see, and feel what they feel. Empathy.

[@brbrprr]

I am a private care who loves caring for elderly people, and I am in tears! I love what I do and wish to continue with this because I know it is my calling. Thanks for this beautiful video, one of the bests I have ever watched!

[@Amina-oq3sr]

this video is the definition of what it means to be in health care and why. it teaches me to be always aware of people and my surroundings because i do not know what others are going through. very good video. thank you

[@Robert_The_Great]

FANTASTIC! Extremely emotional. No noise, no words spoken. One of the best PR content pieces I've ever seen. Well done!

[@letharodriguez247]

Thank you Cleveland Clinic for putting this message out into the world with such beauty and grace! I'm finishing up my first semester of Nursing School and my cohort watched this on one of our first lecture days. The professor gave us a ten-minute break afterward so we could compose ourselves. The need for empathy and individualized kindness in our interactions is so excellently portrayed in this video. I'm commenting now because another professor sent this out for us to view as we wrap up our semester and it still hits just as hard!

[@itperson7085]

❤

[@cherylellisbey3985]

just for today I'm grateful to be able to give a helping hand to other that is in need and to be able to show some compassion as I continue in my career showing and helping other staying health.

[@aurorealis3249]

Powerful message with beautiful music that is healing to this son who's elderly mother is currently in the hospital. So impactful in a very narcissistic world that everyone could benefit from. Thank You Mr. George Sipl and The Cleveland Clinic - the capacity to genuinely care for another human!

[@drsamahabouelazm]

Empathy in patient care fosters a deeper human connection, allowing healthcare providers to understand and address not just the medical needs, but also the emotional and psychological aspects of their patients' well-being. It enhances trust, communication, and overall satisfaction with the healthcare experience. incorporating empathy in daily life involves actively listening, showing understanding, and considering others' perspectives. In healthcare, for instance, expressing empathy through words and gestures can positively impact patient interactions and contribute to a more compassionate and effective care environment.

[@KarenBivins]

One of the most touching and thought provoking videos I have seen in a long time.. If everyone could put this into action in our daily lives, or even just half of us, what a better world we could live in. Thank you to Cleveland Clinic for making this video for us to share and to my wonderful boss, Tracy, for sharing it with our team! You are an inspiration Tracy!

[@redbull4mee]

I had to watch this as part of my training for the hospital and it had me in tears. What a powerful video.

[@GingerGilbertson]

Wow, I am in tears now. So many people, you never know what they are dealing with!! Be kind to all!!!!!

[@harishchand1008]

Here from CODE institute.. Wow, just reminds me how grateful i can be for my struggles in life and actually many blessings and to be more understandable for others, you never know what somebody is going trough.. Thank you

[@beautifullytee9444]

This is so well done and I'm glad they show it in hospital orientations, I cry every time.

[@melissafoster3857]

I show this video in my Service learning class at Aurora High School as we discuss EMPATHY. I have been showing it twice a year for many years, and I still cry every time!

[@jeremycoburn1526]

I watched this in class and had to man up to stop from crying. Its a touching video, well done. You never know what someone else is going through.

[@Cheribeas]

WOW! I was at a conference this week for administrative professionals in healthcare and it was TRULY moving! I want to share it with my colleagues. You just never know what people are going through and what a reminder to give grace and empathy to others, no matter what profession you are in!

[@bellaluce7088]

As a patient, I find it helpful to remember that clinicians are also going through invisible challenges. A doctor who lacks an inherent gift for empathy can still bring great dedication to your care, and one off day from a normally empathic clinician due to work or personal pressures doesn't negate all that came before. Grace in all directions.❤

[@TheSchoellerFamily]

UVA showed us this video during our first day of nursing orientation in 2014 and I cried through the whole thing. Everyone should watch this! It totally transformed how I feel when people are rude or angry. You never know what they are dealing with 💜

[@linkygirl8381]

I almost cried twice to this. This reminds me how we really are.

[@trishhart1997]

I have watched this numerous times over the last 8 year and it still brings me to tears. I use to watch it the day before I planned to show it in my class so I wouldn't cry--that never worked. Awesome!

[@krisevans8389]

A TRULY powerful video. I train police cadets and security guards and I play this video for them on DAY 1. There is typically very few dry eyes afterwards. If only we all took a minute to consider what someone might be going through before we respond to a situation, this would truly be a different world. Great job @clevlandclinic and thank you

[@Girlhead]

honestly I really wish police officers have more empathy. I don't see it. :(

[@LordVader89]

I'm a medical student and they actually showed us this video at our orientation this past week. I have to say even though I'm a grown man it made me teary eyed. What a powerful video.

[@lauracroft8]

I love this video. It was shown at orientation 8 months ago for the company I work for. When I come across a hostile patient, I remember this video and I instantly change my attitude in regards to them. I work in Emergency doing medication reconciliation, so I directly have to talk with very ill/hurt patients who NEED someone who cares. I do care and this video was so powerful for me that when I start to feel differently I remember this!

[@ty0089]

I am coaching international doctors entering residency and we will watch this as part of understanding the term "to be in someone else's shoes". Thanks Cleveland Clinic!

[@mediecospatialconcepts5408]

Its amazing how Cleveland Clinics pointed to the various type of patient visiting the clinic, as well as their employees in the video. Its really touching seeing their lives and the unspoken challenges and joy they experience. Indeed, I am moved to want to visit their clinic when need arises. Everyone would love to be treated so well and in close knit with their peculiar situation.

[@cathyweaver8272]

Absolutely beautiful. You never know the pain one is feeling. Empathy shouldn't be that hard!

[@FaithfulandTrue777]

I've wore a few of those shoes, and God brought me through some intense battles - cant help but cry, working in caring profession everyone needs sincere empathy... what if it was you, hope everyone makes it through, sending you peace 🕊❤️🙏🏻

[@Deetrim]

Cleveland clinic Florida taught me everything there was about to be a caretaker, although I have taken that title to another facility I am beyond thankful for them and their teachings, the amazing doctors, technologist and nurses I met along the way. Fabulous place

[@robyndevoll]

I love this video! As a junior in high school I am studying to be a nurse. I was shown this video to remind me to be respectful and empathetic ALWAYS because you have no idea whats happening in the minds of others.

[@pamelaking8413]

I teach empathetic listening throughout the St. Louis community. This video reflects the core principles of our class and it's not about our words. It's about our HEART and desire to connect with those around us in a meaningful and purposeful way. People want to know they matter and this video is a beautiful reminder of the power of human connection felt through empathy.

[@goodlifeofasma5494]

I volunteer at a hospital. The video runs in my mind on every shift..!!

[@rachkate76]

Racists who burrow in medical and allied health like doctors and nurses should be forced to watch this before every shift every day.

[@christianking8256]

@melody hallelujah can they do a day in the life vlog for a nurse

[@tajuanadavidson2703]

You Need to run this again on every television station. I just saw this and it made such a huge impact on me and empathy towards others!!!!!!!! The Universe needs to see this again!!!

[@Name-ps9fx]

I drive a paratransit bus...I’ve watched this video many times over the years, it’s a great reminder for me to have empathy for people and their life situations...not just during my shift, but also in day-to-day interactions. Another one (if you’re interested) is the short vignette about a cab driver who takes an elderly lady to hospice care. It’s easy to find on a search engine.

[@bintekhanmeher3779]

Great effort indeed. So heart touching...just showed to the medical students in Emphaty lecture. If we could realise and convey the true essence of what empathy really means by showing this video and act upon...this world would definitely be a better place to live

[@shanna8042]

You just changed lives with this video

[@rachkate76]

Unfortunately the selectively practicing bigots who only have selective empathy in health care, customer service and all other customer, client and patient contact jobs who need to see this the most, will either never watch it or never connect the dots.

[@lisahoward7516]

Listening ,learning ,caring and open-mindedness is all the world needs

[@msoberman]

Powerful...moving......a reminder of why I went into health care.

[@barbarainbakersfield]

As a volunteer and also as a patient, this made my heart smile to see a representation of what we all go through daily, helping and being helped. Some let us down, but most do their best in a hectic world. I thank God everyday for being able to help others but also for being on the receiving end A full circle and so wonderful to be able to be a part of it. Excellent film; should be a required viewing by everyone.

[@sethweary9806]

I'll never not tear up at this. Doesn't matter how long I've been an EMT. This is why I treat people with the utmost love and respect I can. Because I don't know their whole story or what they are going through

[@beckysansbury4337]

Kudos to those who created this quietly moving video and to those who allowed their images and stories to be shared. This should be required watching in every house of worship, every civic organization, and every high school/college. This is about life!

[@devangv112]

You never know what battles others are fighting within! This video teaches us to treat others with RESPECT

[@kristinepetrulis1912]

I teach nursing and every year we start the school year reflecting on this video. We can learn skills and they are important, but to be exceptional means you have to master understanding what your patients go through. This video brings tears to my eyes every year when I see my students silently watching, and then passing around tissues.

[@sharnakeady484]

This is a brilliant ad. I have been in and out of hospital this year many times with a chronic condition. I felt every bit of this video.

[@bizybee65]

As a patient of the Cleveland Clinic for bowel resection surgery in 1999 I stand and applaud all of your staff. I have always felt completely cared for there and they embody the definition of empathy and provide outstanding care to their patients and families. May God Bless them all as they work long grueling hours caring for others while battling their own daily struggles in their lives.

[@linktheheroofhyrule2498]

I was able to hold back my tears until the words "visiting dad for the last time" popped up. That hit me really hard.

[@slickschick8114]

me too

[@elahnnabennett7526]

Me too :'(((((

[@maryrobinson2911]

Me too - my husband is on hospice with late stage dementia- and one our sons died from a car accident when he was 20- he was in life support

[@SicilianaButterfly]

Me too! Recently lost my father so I know that feeling all too well. Whether you’re 40 (like me) or 14, it’s never easy losing a parent.

[@texmustangbullitt]

Thank you Dr. Cosgrove for this heartfelt reminder of our soulful purpose here on Earth as children of God. Empathy, Love, Understanding, Forgiveness, all so very important! Thank you again to Dr. Svensson and the entire team at Cleveland Clinic who gave me a second chance at life by replacing my stenotic aortic valve. I am so very thankful and blessed to have been under the care of such a highly skilled team of professionals. God Bless you all for the work that you do everyday!

[@KaiVanYang]

Wow! Just watching this for the first time in 2019. This is such a powerful message with an even more powerful delivery!!!

[@OctoberGirl1971]

Cleveland Clinic saved my Dads life. We were give the best care ever. Dads nurse Luke even made sure I was comfortable and felt safe. He was amazing! I can't thank Cleveland Clinic enough!

[@th3lak3eff3ct]

I try to be aware of others and the fact that I don't know what they are going through, but his video really helped drive the fact home as a person training to be a Nurse.

[@ellengentry8569]

This movie was amazing. They cannot include every ailment and treatment in the world. This was perfect. Thank you, Cleveland Clinic.

[@davidpecora7750]

Excellent video! Should be required viewing for ALL who enter health care

[@barbadenis]

great poin! but not only who enter in health care but all people who not respect others and human kind.

[@changyang1230]

All human being I argue.

[@healthyhair5396]

Brilliant video that was magnificently executed. My brother is a type 1 diabetic & also on Dialysis. He’s only 27 & I try to be very empathetic towards him. Because he is struggling mentally & physically. I pray for him to have peace.

[@Stumpybear7640]

I live my life surrounded by other people's emotions. My family say I was always a little dreamy, but when they looked into someones eyes, i could see their soul. It is tiring, but its the way I am. 😃

[@anniefromcork]

This is a gift. Thank you. I work with people - I need to remember this. Anyone who works with people needs to see this.

[@primavera2701]

This video is just wonderful to share with people don’t understand others people pain, or health situations. im crying :((

[@coleenhopkins2908]

Such an important message for compassion. Very moving video, wonderfully staged with excellent music support.

[@TCM373]

This is an exceptional video that brings home the concept of empathy.

[@FatherlyVibes]

As a healthcare worker in 2023 this is an exceptional reminder, doubly so for the VA. Grateful for the resource, even 10 years later.

[@danab8532]

I don't understand how 170 people dislike this video. I think it is impactful!

[@KitKatMEOWWW]

Maybe their eyes were filled with tears and when they thought they were clicking the Like button they accidentally clicked the Dislike button. That's the only logical reason.

[@tonyferdaise5292]

I use this video in a Leadership class that I teach in nursing school, I tear up every time watching it. It is SOOO powerful the students at times are speechless.

[@JeffBauerDDS]

Fantastic video. I quickly shared this with my employees at my small office to convey my thoughts I've had for years of how I treat my patients! Powerful message. God Bless you in all you do at the Cleveland Clinic.

[@hannahnicole8371]

Just started Nursing school, they had us watch this as an introduction video. I am truly touched, thank you Cleveland Clinic for an amazing video!

[@nucleusmedicalmedia]

GREAT writing and editing!

[@tab8294]

Wow nucleus medical media❤

[@ChrisNP87]

Such a powerful video! It brings tears to my eyes each and every time I watch it. Well done Cleveland Clinic!

[@lizhancock464]

I was OK until the lift. What a wonderful video to help remind us all to be more patient, understanding and compassionate. Thank you

[@lailamata4791]

Watching this for my bachelors in healthcare administration degree and it’s just so beautiful how they portray everyone and their unique situations.

[@MrJukamada]

empathy. That will heal the world.

[@nezurrak]

Exactly 👍🏼

[@guerisondivine8368]

Exactly

[@rosetetreault9630]

This is so helpful for everyone! It reminds us that someone somewhere is going through something very difficult - so we may be kinder, gentler, and more understanding of everyone around us everyday. Driving in our cars, at the store, at work, or at school; you never know what that person is going through right next to you.

[@karenraff1]

I'm a nurse. This was amazing. Thank you.

[@marie.s9995]

This video is PROFOUND. We are afterall HUMAN. I still shed tears each time I watch this video no matter how many times I've seen it.

[@evelyngrande6907]

I love this video, never get tired of watching it.

[@bexie1125]

I love CCF and I recommend this to all my nurse friends and aquaintences. Great job CCF!

[@BethBoynton]

Brilliant and powerful! If we can listen and be curious to our patients' experiences and each others' the world of healthcare will become so much more compassionate.