What’s up, Doc?

Dear Gala Guru,

I have an awkward situation for you.  Recently, my wife and I attended one of her many fundraiser dinners.  As a newly minted Dermatologist, I have been working hard to get my practice off the ground and was looking forward to the diversion of this black-tie event.  It was for a good cause, and we found our table among the other 300 guests. We were enjoying a great conversation with the other eight people at our table when one of my patients recognized me.  This patient walked over to our table to introduce me to a couple of her friends.  I have to say things went downhill from there.  Her friend had just returned from travel and decided that since I was a dermatologist, this would be a good time to discuss, in detail, the hives she had acquired during her travels.  It was embarrassing!  The rest of the table got quiet, and despite my attempts to have her call my office on Monday, she continued to drone on.  This was an awkward situation that has soured me on large gatherings.

What’s up, doc?  First, let me explain that I am a Gala Guru and typically only prescribe party advice.  That being said, I will attempt to help you examine this.  Since you are a dermatologist, naturally, you have some skin in this game.  There are perks and downsides to every job.  Clearly, this lady lacked an understanding of the social situation she was in.   I think we have only scratched the surface of human behavior.  I find when I attend gatherings where humans are involved, I can always expect the unexpected.  However, before you do anything rash, like giving up on fundraisers, I think it’s important to remember that the only thing we have control of in life is our attitude and behavior.  So, try to find the humor and look for the positive.   People naturally seek me out for party advice when I attend a social gathering. My plumber advises me people tell him about their drain troubles anywhere he goes.  So, this could be just one of the side effects of your profession.  Look at the positive side; you may have just gained a new client.  File the experience away under humor.  Don’t be embarrassed the next time someone is just itching to tell you about their medical problem in a social situation. Explain to the other guests that they should be grateful you were not her proctologist.

Follow up in 6 months if symptoms persist, and remember, there is always a reason to celebrate!

The Gala Guru

www.thegalaguru.net