More than a dentist
While reading a local paper the other day, my eye fell on a familiar picture on, of all places, the obituary page. I was extraordinarily shocked and saddened to learn that my dentist extraordinaire, Richard Barrera, had passed away.
He was recommended to me by my primary care physician, and I liked Richard the moment I met him. He was so sweet, friendly, comforting, and kind. I can honestly say I never felt one moment of pain while sitting in his chair, including the two crowns he had to give me when I cracked a few molars in a nasty fall a few years ago. Getting them fixed was such a non-event. He held his instruments with confidence and grace, and used them with such speed and skill; it was a great thing to behold, even from the nervous patient's perspective.
I ran into him one sunny weekend while jogging at Chrissy Field a few years ago. He ran over to me, hands waving, big smile on his face, to say hello. Every birthday, he sent me a hand-written card in congratulations, signing it "Richard," not "Dr. Barrera."
He retired a few months ago, and it's obvious now why he did so. I can only hope his last few months were joyful for him and his loved ones.
Thank you, Richard, for all you did for me, and for going beyond what "just a dentist" need ever do for a patient. We will all miss your light.
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