Keith Wong, a medical student at the University of Ottawa aspiring to become a family doctor, reflects on his visit to Barcelona with friends. Despite his Chinese heritage and his parents having no connection to Spain or Europe, Wong found himself reminiscing about his parents during his time in Barcelona.
During a leisurely evening at a restaurant with his friends, Wong observed a middle-aged couple enjoying cheesecake. The scene reminded him of his own parents back home in Windsor, Ontario, where they often relax in front of the TV with snacks from the local store.
Wong’s parents, who never completed high school or university themselves, have tirelessly supported him and his sisters through their educational pursuits. As the youngest child with one more year of schooling ahead, Wong’s parents continue to work to ensure he has the necessary support to succeed.
Despite feeling the weight of responsibility for his parents’ sacrifices, Wong is determined to repay their efforts. While some of his peers have already started working and can afford to treat their parents to trips, Wong has committed to several more years of medical school with significantly higher tuition fees.
Wong dreams of taking his parents on trips once he completes his medical training, but recent health concerns for his father and mother have added a sense of urgency to his plans. He worries that by the time he is financially capable of showing his appreciation, his parents may not be able to enjoy the experiences he envisions for them.
Recognizing the value of expressing love and gratitude in everyday moments, Wong cherishes the connections he maintains with his parents through regular communication and visits. Despite the challenges and uncertainties ahead, Wong remains thankful for his parents’ unwavering support and sacrifices throughout his journey in medicine.
