It was mid-December, and I ran into a patient at a community garden open day.

My patient was excited to see me and gave me the grand tour of the garden, including her well-tended plot. Afterwards, we discussed what plants might be appropriate for my home garden.

When we got to the stall where I could purchase some seedlings, she proudly introduced me to her friend as the doctor “who looks after me”.

As I was inspecting the various herbs being sold, the vendor said: “Thank you so much for all you have been doing for us. I know it must have been so difficult these past few years.”