«لَمَّا يْطِيبِ الْعَلِيلْ يِنْسَى جَمِيلِ الْمِدَاوِي»

The saying observes that people value a helper most while they still need help. Once the sick person gets better, the memory of the good turn done for them fades, and whoever nursed or treated them, not necessarily a doctor, is overlooked or even forgotten entirely.

More broadly, it is a comment on ingratitude and short loyalty. It can express disappointment at someone who has turned away after being helped, or caution others that kindness given in a crisis may not be remembered later.

Say it when someone helped through a crisis turns cold or dismissive once the trouble passes, such as a friend who disappears after receiving support. It works as a rueful remark or a gentle warning not to expect lasting gratitude.