Dr. Robert Rutka, MD

It was some years back. I was his patient through my pregnancy and for post-partum exams. At my first exam post-birth, he asked if I'd allow a med student to observe the exam; a young male. I said yes with some hesitation; these exams are pretty personal. I asked Dr. Rutka if my varicose veins in my legs were going to stay, or go away. He looked at the young guy next to him, laughed, and said, 'Are you planning on entering any beauty contests?' They both had a hearty laugh, looking at each other and then at me. I have never forgotten how lonely and betrayed it made me feel. It was a medical question, and they made me feel like a dumb vain silly woman.