I am a first-generation physician and from a young age, I always knew that when I grew up, I wanted to be a medical doctor. I was a radio presenter in middle school and during my gap year after high school before college, but there was never a doubt in my mind about my desire to one day become a doctor.
I fell in love with Critical Care Medicine during my first rotation in residency within an intensive care unit and the rest is history. It gives me goosebumps when I remember that I graduated from medical school in 2010. It’s been 13 years since my childhood dream became a reality.
I am Christian and believe God has guided my path in life. From my amazing supportive parents and siblings to my wonderful husband, I would not be where I am today if God had not placed these extraordinary people in my life. I am forever thankful.
Of course, all of the many ‘little’ successes and wins have culminated in where I am today. Having grown up and gone to school in a developing country–Ghana, West Africa–nothing was handed to me on a silver platter. Hard work was key!
I love the camaraderie that is present here at Centra. Emphasis is truly placed on teamwork and diversity is welcomed. I am fortunate to work with an amazing team across our system but especially in my field of Pulmonary and Critical Care. I get the rare privilege of being there for patients and families at some of their most vulnerable and lowest points in life–I don’t take that rare privilege for granted.
Ultimately, the past two years that I’ve spent at Centra are filled with so many beautiful memories. One of the most emotional memories I can recall was getting a thank you letter from the family of an elderly gentleman who unfortunately passed away in the ICU. It was a solemn reminder that what we do in healthcare does indeed make a difference even if we don’t always get the results we want.