Itâs a quiet Sunday today â and as we approach National Doctorsâ Day on July 1st, I found myself reflecting on one unforgettable moment that reminded me why being a doctor is a lifelong responsibility, no matter where you are.
Back in 2017, I was returning to India after attending the Google Local Guides Summit#LGSummit17 in California. I boarded an Air India flight from San Francisco to New Delhi, looking forward to getting home â especially since it was Diwali night.
Somewhere mid-flight, the captain made an announcement: âIs there a doctor on board? We have a medical emergency.â
I stepped forward.
A middle-aged passenger was feeling dizzy and panicked. The crew handed me a stethoscope and an analog BP machine â no pulse oximeter was available. After examining him, I found his vitals were stable. He hadnât had water for a long time and had no prior health issues. I diagnosed it as a panic episode, likely triggered by dehydration and altitude.
With reassurance, hydration, and monitoring, he gradually improved â no medication needed, just presence and care.
When we landed, I was surprised and touched to find my connecting ticket to Kolkata had been upgraded to business classâ a kind gesture from Air India.
That night, I arrived home to Diwali lights.
But the true spark came from a moment of service â high above the clouds.
As Doctorsâ Day approaches, I salute every doctor who quietly steps up, on duty or not.
Because being a doctor isnât just a profession â itâs a promise.
Thank you @Designer_Biswajit Iâm deeply grateful for the kind words. While doctors do play a role, I believe compassion and service exist in every walk of life.
What an inspiring story!
Being a doctor is already a noble callingâbut being one at 35,000 feet shows a whole new level of dedication, courage, and compassion. Your presence and swift action made a real difference, and this story truly touched my heart.
Thank you for sharing your experience ahead of National Doctorsâ Day. You remind us why healthcare heroes deserve our deepest respectâon the ground and in the sky!
I truly appreciate your message. Itâs a privilege to serve, and Iâm constantly inspired by the dedication of healthcare professionals everywhere. Thank you!
What a powerful and heartfelt story â truly the spirit of a doctor in action, even 35,000 feet above the ground. Your calm presence, skill, and empathy turned a potential crisis into a moment of care and comfort â and on Diwali night, no less. The quiet heroism in such moments is what makes this profession so noble.
Happy National Doctorsâ Day to you and all who serve with such dedication. @DrShaunak
That night, I arrived home to Diwali lights.
Happy National Doctorsâ Day in advance. 
