I would like to say a big thank you to the Hydrocephalus Canada Board of Directors for the Access to Excellence Award, which gave me the opportunity to conduct my summer research project and explore the field of obstetrics and gynecology (ObGyn).
At the beginning of medical school, one of the questions I dreaded being asked was “what specialty are you interested in?” My answer to this question always sounded like a never-ending chaotic list of all medical specialties. As the first year of medical school progressed, I explored several specialties through shadowing, interest group nights and information sessions. With time, I realized that I gravitated towards surgical specialties. Unfortunately, I was still conflicted as some of my core passions – equity and advocacy – did not appear to be well represented in surgical specialties.
This research experience, however, offered me a different perspective. Investigating modes of delivery in women with physical disabilities demonstrated to me that advocacy and surgery can co-exist. Additionally, working with a supervisor, who has dedicated a major part of their clinical and research career to reproductive care in women with physical disabilities, reinforced the idea that I can choose to make advocacy work my central focus, irrespective of specialty. In addition to offering me a different perspective, this project contributed to my development as an aspiring physician by helping me build my research , writing and communication skills.
This summer was special because I no longer dread being asked my specialty of interest. This opportunity was very impactful because I enhanced my research skills and garnered a deeper understanding of the clinical and research opportunities ObGyn has to offer, particularly in the management of reproductive care in women with spina bifida. I am very grateful to the Hydrocephalus Canada for their contribution and donation to making this research project and experience a reality.
