Serve with Empathy: Patient shares L.O.V.E. with Nevada primary care team

Before she met Amit Duggal, MD 10 years ago, Mary struggled with her health. She suffered multiple strokes and seizures.  She was taking numerous medications for various conditions. Confined to a wheelchair, she couldn’t drive around town, and she didn’t have anyone nearby to help care for her.  

Since she met Dr. Duggal at the West Charleston Clinic in Las Vegas, Nevada, Mary's quality of life has dramatically improved over time. He weaned her off previously prescribed medications he felt were doing more harm than good and recommended she visit a pain clinic. 

With Dr. Duggal's help, Mary gradually lost more than 40 pounds after adjusting her diet. Her medication count is more manageable, and she has more energy for basic tasks around the house. Moreover, he helped transition Mary from a wheelchair to walking on her own without an assistance device.  

Mary appreciated the pace because Dr. Duggal took time to listen and give her the confidence to adapt to a new lifestyle. “One visit from him can last me like three months," she said. "He makes me feel good inside. He makes me feel like a real person."  Mary was so thankful, she nominated Dr. Duggal for a L.O.V.E Award, adding, “He's lifted me up in so many ways; he really did save my life.” 

"It is truly humbling to witness the transformative effect that compassionate care can have, not only on physical health but also on a patient’s overall outlook and confidence," said Dr. Duggal, who was recognized with a L.O.V.E. Award. "Building a trusting relationship with Mary has reinforced my conviction that medicine extends beyond clinical procedures—it is fundamentally about understanding and supporting the human experience. Hearing her story, her resilience, and the progress she has made serves as a continual source of motivation and reinforces my dedication to providing patient-centered care."