In episode 9 of 𝑨 𝑫𝒐𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒓'𝒔 𝑶𝒂𝒕𝒉, we step into the world of pediatric hemato-oncology through the deeply meaningful reflections of 𝐃𝐫. 𝐉𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐦, Consultant Pediatric Hemato-Oncologist and Medical Director of Molecular Hematology at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, Canada, and Associate Professor at the University of Toronto.

Beyond discussing clinical practice, this episode explores the emotional weight of caring for children with life-threatening illnesses and the responsibility of supporting the families who walk through that journey beside them.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Bartram speaks about the importance of compassion, gratitude, mentorship, and human connection in medicine. He reflects on how no physician reaches where they are alone, and how the support of mentors, colleagues, friends, and family becomes essential in carrying the emotional and professional demands of the profession.

One of the most meaningful moments of the episode comes through his “𝑶𝒃𝒋𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝑴𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈,” which carries a powerful message about gratitude, support, and uplifting one another along the journey of medicine. It serves as a reminder that behind every physician is a community of people who helped shape, guide, and encourage them along the way.

A particularly impactful part of this discussion is Dr. Bartram’s reflection on recognition and encouragement in healthcare. In environments where criticism often comes quickly, he highlights the importance of sincerely acknowledging people when they have done good work. It is a powerful reminder that simple words of appreciation can have a lasting impact.

We also discuss the role of multidisciplinary teamwork in patient care, the lessons he learned from practicing at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London and The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, and the importance of building cultures rooted in respect, trust, and collaboration.

This episode ultimately highlights that medicine is not meant to be practiced in isolation. It is built on empathy, teamwork, gratitude, and the people who help us continue forward when the path becomes difficult.

This episode is especially meaningful to me because I had the opportunity to interview one of the most skilled and humble professors I was taught by during medical school. 𝐃𝐫. 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐣𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐡 is the Head of the Emergency Department at Thumbay Hospital, Ajman, and a Clinical Lecturer at Gulf Medical University.

What makes this conversation even more special is that we share the same alma mater. Dr. Singh was part of the 𝟏𝟗𝟗𝟗 𝐛𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡 at 𝐆𝐮𝐥𝐟 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲, then known as Gulf Medical College, and his journey reflects faith, compassion, and a deep sense of purpose. From almost stepping away from medicine to finding his way back and becoming a leader in emergency care, his story is a powerful reminder that the path to medicine is not always linear.

I was fortunate to be taught by Dr. Singh during my years in medical school, which made this conversation feel like a true full circle moment. Knowing that he once walked the same halls as a student at Gulf Medical University and now seeing the impact he has made in his field makes this experience even more meaningful to me.

Seeing the level of competence, dedication, and ethics he embodies reflects the legacy of Gulf Medical University, a well-established medical institution in the UAE known for shaping generations of healthcare professionals. It makes this episode a proud moment for me.

One of the most unique parts of this episode was his “𝑶𝒃𝒋𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝑴𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈,” which was completely unexpected, deeply heartfelt, and truly touching. It reflected a powerful sense of faith and ambition, and carried a deep sentimental value.

Dr. Singh also highlighted the importance of mentorship and the role it played in shaping his path. He spoke about the mentors who influenced his understanding of patient care and guided him throughout his journey, and how he now strives to offer the same support and guidance to his own students.

His journey from being a medical student at Gulf Medical University to becoming part of its clinical faculty truly reflects a rewarding and full circle experience.

In this episode, we explore his journey into medicine, the realities of emergency care, and the mindset it builds. He emphasizes the importance of discipline, ethical medical practice, and staying grounded in the fundamental principle of “do no harm.”

في هذه الحلقة الخاصة من بودكاست A Doctor’s Oath، تشرفت باستضافة الدكتور أحمد مصطفى، استشاري التخدير والعناية المركزة، الذي لم يكن مجرد طبيب تعلمت منه الكثير، بل كان مرشدًا حقيقيًا كان له أثر عميق في رحلتي منذ سنواتي الأولى في كلية الطب.

تعرفت على الدكتور أحمد مصطفى لأول مرة خلال سنتي الثالثة في كلية الطب, وهو من وضع الأساس لكل ما أعرفه اليوم في طب التخدير، لكنه علّمني ما هو أعمق من العلم… علّمني بالقدوة. كيف يكون القائد الحقيقي، كيف يرفع فريقه، كيف يتصرف داخل غرفة العمليات، وكيف يحافظ على هدوئه في أصعب اللحظات. ما أدهشني أيضًا هو جانب آخر في شخصيته، كونه مدرب غوص، ومن خلال هذه الحلقة، اكتشفت معه أوجه تشابه مدهشة بين عالم التخدير والغوص.

في هذا الحوار، نتحدث أيضًا عن أهمية أن يكون الطبيب دائم التعلم، متواضعًا في علمه، وداعمًا لغيره. كيف أن التعليم والإرشاد ليسا خيارًا، بل جزء لا يتجزأ من مسؤولية الطبيب.

شاركنا الدكتور أحمد أيضًا "Object of Meaning" مميز جدًا، وفي الحقيقة لم يكن واحدًا بل اثنين، من طفولته، عكسا التزامه المبكر بحلمه، والإيمان بالحلم الذي يُزرع في الإنسان منذ الصغر.

كما نسلط الضوء على أهمية التوازن في الحياة، ودور الرياضة والنشاط البدني، ووجود هواية خارج الطب، تساعدنا على استعادة طاقتنا، وتحسين صحتنا النفسية والجسدية، لنعود ونكون أفضل لأنفسنا ولمرضانا.

هذا الحوار له معنى عميق بالنسبة لي، لأن الدكتور أحمد كان مثالًا أفتخر به جدًا، ومن الأشخاص الذين كنت محظوظة بلقائهم في مسيرتي التعليمية. ومن أجمل اللحظات التي لن أنساها، أنه كان أول من ناداني "دكتورة شهد" داخل المستشفى، وهذا منحني ثقة كبيرة، وبقي أثر هذه الكلمة معي حتى اليوم.

أتمنى أن تلهمكم هذه الحلقة، وتذكركم بأهمية التمسك بحلمكم، واحترام من تعملون معهم، وتغرس فيكم قيمة الإرشاد ومشاركة العلم.

In this special episode of 𝐀 𝐃𝐨𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫’𝐬 𝐎𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐏𝐨𝐝𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐭, I had the honor of interviewing 𝐃𝐫. 𝐀𝐡𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐌𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐟𝐚, Consultant Anesthesiologist and Critical Care specialist, who was not just a doctor I learned so much from, but a true mentor who had a profound impact on my journey from my early years in medical school.

I first met Dr. Ahmed Moustafa during my third year of medical school, and he laid the foundation for everything I know today in anesthesiology. Yet beyond knowledge, he taught me something deeper; he taught by example. He showed me what true leadership looks like: how to uplift a team, how to carry yourself in the operating room, and how to remain calm in the most challenging moments. What also fascinated me was another side of him, being a scuba diving instructor, and through this episode, I discovered the remarkable similarities between anesthesiology and diving.

In this conversation, we also discussed the importance of being a lifelong learner, staying humble in your knowledge, and supporting others. How teaching and mentorship are not optional, but an essential and inseparable part of being a doctor.

Dr. Ahmed also shared a very meaningful “𝑶𝒃𝒋𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝑴𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈,” in fact, not one but two objects from his childhood, reflecting his early commitment to his dream and the importance of believing in that dream from a young age.

We also highlight the importance of balance in life, the role of fitness and physical activity, and the value of having a hobby outside of medicine, something that helps us recharge, improve our mental and physical well-being, and return as better versions of ourselves for both our patients and ourselves.

This conversation was truly meaningful to me, as Dr. Ahmed is someone I truly admire and feel grateful to have met during my academic journey. One moment I will never forget is that he was the first person in the hospital to call me “Dr. Shahd.” That simple yet very kind gesture gave me a sense of confidence that has stayed with me ever since.

I hope this episode inspires you, reminds you of the importance of holding on to your dream, respecting those you work with, and instills in you the value of mentorship and sharing knowledge.

في هذه الحلقة من بودكاست A Doctor’s Oath، كان لي شرف استضافة الدكتورة هدى صادق، استشاري طب التطور العصبي والنمو السلوكي للأطفال. هي طبيبة تتميز بهدوئها، وإنسانيتها، وقيمها الأخلاقية العميقة التي تجسد المعنى الحقيقي لممارسة الطب.

تسلط هذه الحلقة الضوء على صفتين أساسيتين يجب أن يتحلى بهما كل طبيب وكل طالب طب: الصبر والإصرار. ليسا مجرد كلمات، بل أسلوب حياة ومسار مستمر نحو تحقيق الهدف.

تعكس رحلة الدكتورة هدى صادق هذه المعاني بوضوح. فمن بداياتها في ليبيا، وطنها الأم، إلى انتقالها إلى المملكة المتحدة، حيث أكملت تدريبها في طب الأطفال ثم تخصصت لاحقًا في طب التطور العصبي والنمو السلوكي، كانت رحلتها مثالًا على الوضوح في الهدف، والالتزام، والإصرار.

ما يميز هذه الحلقة أيضًا هو تسليط الضوء على هذا التخصص الدقيق والحساس، الذي لا يعتمد فقط على المعرفة الطبية، بل يتطلب قدرة حقيقية على الإصغاء، وفهم الأبعاد النفسية والعاطفية، والتعامل مع الطفل وعائلته كمنظومة متكاملة.

خلال الحوار، شاركت الدكتورة هدى قصصًا إنسانية عميقة تعكس القيم الأخلاقية الحقيقية للمهنة، وما يتطلبه هذا المجال من رحمة، وروح الفريق، والشعور بالمسؤولية. فالطبيب ليس مجرد مؤدٍ لعمله، بل عنصر فاعل في حياة مرضاه، ومصدر تأثير إيجابي داخل فريقه، ومحفز للإنتاجية والإنسانية في آنٍ واحد.

ومن أكثر اللحظات تأثيرًا في هذه الحلقة كانت "The Object of Meaning" الخاص بها، والذي كان شخصيًا وعميقًا، ويحمل جزءًا مهمًا من رحلتها. أقدّر جدًا مشاركتها لهذه القصة، التي تعكس مدى تمسكها بقيمها، ووفائها لنفسها، ولعائلتها، ووضوحها في أهدافها منذ البداية.

تعلمنا هذه الحلقة أن وضوح الهدف، والالتزام، والاستمرارية ليست أمورًا ثانوية، بل هي الأساس الذي يُبنى عليه النجاح. قصة ملهمة لكل طالب طب وكل طبيب شاب يسعى لتحقيق حلمه رغم التحديات.

In this episode of 𝐀 𝐃𝐨𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫’𝐬 𝐎𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐏𝐨𝐝𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐭, I had the privilege of hosting 𝐃𝐫. 𝐇𝐮𝐝𝐚 𝐒𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐪, Consultant in Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Pediatrics. She is a physician whose calm presence, deep compassion, and strong ethical foundation truly reflect the essence of what it means to practice medicine with humanity.

This episode highlights two of the most essential qualities every doctor and every future doctor must carry: patience and perseverance. Not just in theory, but as daily disciplines that shape the journey toward one’s dream.

Dr. Huda Sadek's story is a powerful reflection of this. From her beginnings in Libya, her home country, to her journey to the United Kingdom, where she completed her postgraduate training in pediatrics and later subspecialized in neurodevelopmental pediatrics, her path is one defined by clarity of purpose, dedication, and perseverance.

What makes this episode especially meaningful is the insight it offers into a highly sensitive and unique field. Neurodevelopmental pediatrics is not only about clinical knowledge; it requires deep listening, emotional awareness, and the ability to care not only for the child but for the entire world that surrounds them.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Huda shares powerful stories that reflect the profession's true ethical values and what it takes to be a physician in such a delicate specialty. She highlights the importance of compassion, teamwork, and responsibility, not just as expectations, but as core principles. To be a doctor is not simply to perform a role, but to actively contribute to your patients’ lives and your team’s outcomes, to be a source of positivity, and a catalyst for meaningful impact.

One of the most personal moments in this episode was her “𝑶𝒃𝒋𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝑴𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈”. A deeply significant part of her journey, and a reflection of the values she has carried with her from the very beginning. I am truly grateful to her for sharing it; it is a reminder of the importance of staying true to oneself, to one’s roots, and to one’s purpose.

Dr. Huda Sadek's journey teaches us that clarity of goals, dedication, and consistency are not optional; they are what shape the path. Her story is one I hope will inspire every medical student and junior doctor to remain committed to their dreams, no matter how challenging the journey may be.

On the very special occasion of his birthday, and as he also celebrates 18 years of growth and innovation with the Thumbay Group, I am honored to release the full episode of 𝑨 𝑫𝒐𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒓’𝒔 𝑶𝒂𝒕𝒉 𝑷𝒐𝒅𝒄𝒂𝒔𝒕 featuring 𝐌𝐫. 𝐀𝐤𝐛𝐚𝐫 𝐌𝐨𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐲.

He is a remarkable leader whose journey has been a true source of inspiration for me and for countless others.

I chose to invite Mr. Akbar not only because of his remarkable achievements in healthcare, education, and leadership, but also because of the values he embodies: vision, resilience, humility, and an unwavering commitment to growth. His story is not just about personal success; it is about building institutions, empowering people, and shaping a legacy that stands as one of the most influential healthcare ecosystems in the region.

Mr. Akbar Moideen Thumbay is the Vice President of the Healthcare Division at the Thumbay Group, overseeing an expansive healthcare ecosystem that includes Thumbay Hospitals and Day Care Centers, Thumbay Clinics, Thumbay Pharmacy, Thumbay Labs, and Thumbay Medical Tourism across Ajman, Fujairah, Sharjah, and Dubai. His leadership also extends to the retail division, managing brands such as Zo & Mo Opticals, Thumbay Pharmacy, and Flower Shoppe across the UAE.

In this episode, Mr. Akbar shares the principles that have guided him throughout his journey: the importance of thoughtful leadership, the balance between ambition and integrity, and the mindset required to grow consistently while uplifting others along the way. We explore the lessons he has learned, his reflections on responsibility and teamwork, and the values that allowed him to lead with both wisdom and humility.

One of the most meaningful moments in this episode was his "𝑶𝒃𝒋𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝑴𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈". Interestingly, he chose to share not just one, but two objects, each carrying a story that reflects his beginnings, the core values instilled in him from a young age, and his deep belief in perseverance, resilience, and consistency. These objects were not just symbolic; they served as a reminder that every great journey is rooted in simple, yet powerful principles that guide us through every stage of growth.

Having Mr. Akbar on 𝑨 𝑫𝒐𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒓’𝒔 𝑶𝒂𝒕𝒉 is especially meaningful to me because his story resonates deeply with the mission of this series: to highlight not only excellence, but the human values that sustain it. His journey reminds us that success is never a solitary climb; it is built on vision, perseverance, quality, and the courage to lead by example.

I truly hope this episode serves as a source of guidance and inspiration for every aspiring leader striving to grow, lead with purpose, and make a meaningful impact.

هذه الحلقة لها مكانة خاصة جدًا في قلبي، فهي ليست مجرد حلقة بالنسبة لي… بل هي توثيق لرحلة ملهمة كان لي الشرف أن أكون جزءًا من سردها.

رحلة ملهم... رحلة البروفيسور الدكتور هاني عبد الجواد

سعيدة جدًا اليوم بنشر محتوى حصري لأول مرة، صور ولحظات من رحلة البروفيسور هاني عبد الجواد لم تُنشر من قبل، توثّق مراحل صنعت منه القامة العلمية والإنسانية التي نعرفها اليوم.

من قبل دخوله كلية الطب، مرورًا بالتحديات والمحطات الفارقة في مسيرته، وحتى قيادته في مجال جراحة العمود الفقري، هذه الحلقة تغوص بعمق في فكر ورسالة "ساحر العمود الفقري".

بالنسبة لي، كانت هذه الحلقة مميزة جدًا لأنها منحتني فهمًا أعمق لفكره، لرسالته، وللقيم التي يقود بها حياته ومهنته.

ومن أكثر اللحظات تأثيرًا في هذه الحلقة كانت "The Object of Meaning" الخاصة به، ذلك الشيء البسيط ظاهريًا، لكن يحمل معنى عميق ورسالة إنسانية تمس القلب قبل العقل. كانت لحظة صادقة ومؤثرة تذكّرنا لماذا اخترنا هذا الطريق من الأساس.

ورغم أن رحلة أستاذ هاني مليئة بالقصص الملهمة، إلا أنه شارك قصة محددة لم تلمس قلبي فقط… بل أبكتني، وأبكته هو أيضًا. كانت لحظة إنسانية صافية، تكشف عن عمق الإيمان، والأمل، ومدى القوة التي يحملها رغم كل التحديات.

البروفيسور هاني عبد الجواد لم يكن مجرد طبيب ملهم أعجبتني قصته.بل كان النور المضيء في عتمة ليالي كلية الطب القاسية بالنسبة لي.كان المثال الذي يذكرني أن الطب رسالة، وأن الثبات، والصبر، والسعي الصادق يصنعون فرقًا حقيقيًا.

أتمنى أن يصل إلهامه وحكمته إلى أجيالٍ وأجيال من الأطباء، وأن تستمر رسالته في إضاءة الطريق لكل من يسير في درب الطب.

This episode holds a very special place in my heart. It is not just another episode for me… it is the documentation of an inspiring journey that I had the honor of highlighting from the very beginning.

An inspiring journey… the journey of 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐟. 𝐃𝐫. 𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐀𝐛𝐝𝐞𝐥 𝐆𝐚𝐰𝐰𝐚𝐝.

Today, I am truly happy to be publishing exclusive content for the first time, photos and moments from Prof. Hany Abdel Gawwad’s journey that have never been shared before, documenting the stages that shaped the scientific and human figure we know today.

From before he entered medical school, through the challenges and defining milestones of his career, to his leadership in the field of spine surgery, this episode dives deeply into the mind and mission of the “𝑺𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝑴𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓.”

Personally, this episode was incredibly special because it gave me a deeper understanding of his philosophy, mission, and the values that guide his life and profession.

One of the most powerful moments in this episode was his “𝑶𝒃𝒋𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝑴𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈,” which was something simple in appearance yet carried profound meaning and a deeply human message that touched the heart before the mind. It was a sincere and moving moment that reminded us why we chose this path in the first place.

Although Professor Hany’s journey is filled with inspiring stories, he shared one particular story that not only touched my heart… but brought tears to my eyes and to his as well. It was a pure and heartfelt moment that revealed the depth of his faith, his hope, and the strength he carries despite every challenge.

Professor Hany Abdel Gawwad was not just an inspiring doctor whose story I admired.

He was the light during some of the darkest and most difficult nights of medical school.

He was the example that reminded me that medicine is a mission and that consistency, patience, and sincere effort truly make a difference.

I hope his inspiration and wisdom continue to reach generations upon generations of doctors, and that his mission keeps illuminating the path for everyone who chooses to walk the journey of medicine.

This week’s episode is a very special one because my guest and I share the same alma mater: Gulf Medical University! We walked the same hallways, had some common professors, and trained within the same institution. Seeing where that journey has led 𝐃𝐫. 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐬 𝐇𝐮𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐢𝐧 is truly inspiring.

Dr. Younis Hussain is a Lead Consultant in Spine and Neurosurgery in 𝐆𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐲 and a proud graduate of 𝐆𝐮𝐥𝐟 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲. In this episode, he shares how he chose one of the most intellectually and technically demanding specialties in medicine, 𝒏𝒆𝒖𝒓𝒐𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒚, and what it truly takes to pursue such a path.

Beyond the complexity of the field, what stands out most is his humility, positivity, and grounded mindset. In a specialty where precision and excellence are everything, Dr. Younis reminds us that there is no room for ego, only teamwork, preparation, structure, and attention to detail.

One of the most unexpected and out-of-the-box moments in this episode was his 𝑶𝒃𝒋𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝑴𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈. It may not be what you would expect, but it carries a powerful and unique message, one that every medical student and every doctor should remember. It is a reminder to stay humble, stay grounded, and to appreciate every opportunity and every person who becomes part of your journey.

He also shared a deeply touching story from his career, one that highlights a crucial value in medicine: the courage to take responsibility and the ability to be a true team player. Because excellence in surgery, and in life, is never an individual achievement.

Throughout our conversation, he reflects on the qualities and defining moments that shaped him not only as a surgeon but as a doctor and as an ethical human being. This episode is about ambition, humility, accountability, and the responsibility that comes with mastering both skill and character.

I highly encourage every medical student, young doctor, and healthcare professional to listen to this conversation.

عندما التقيتُ بالدكتورة منى عبدالله لأول مرة خلال سنتي الرابعة في كلية الطب، أثناء تدريبي في قسم النساء والتوليد، برزت فورًا كنموذج للطبيبة التي أطمح لأن أكون مثلها. متواضعة، رحيمة، وتتمتع بأخلاق عالية. ولو كان عليّ أن أصفها بكلمة واحدة، فستكون بلا شك مرحِّبة.

كانت تشع طاقة إيجابية ولطفًا صادقًا، وتعامل كل من حولها باحترام حقيقي. منذ اليوم الأول، جعلتني أشعر بأنني جزء حقيقي من الفريق، ليس فقط طالبة موجودة لفترة قصيرة. هذا الإحساس بالانتماء لم يعزّز ثقتي بنفسي فحسب، بل شجّعني على المشاركة وطرح الأسئلة والمشاركة في النقاشات، والحضور يوميًا بحماس وعقلية إيجابية. لقد خلقت بيئة عمل بنّاءة، داعمة، ومحفِّزة لمرضاها، والممرضات، والطلاب، والزملاء على حد سواء.

وخلال هذه الحلقة، ونحن نتعرّف على رحلة الدكتورة منى، يبرز قرارها الواعي بأن تكون مختلفة كأحد أكثر الجوانب قوة وتأثيرًا. فعلى الرغم من التحديات التي واجهتها، والصورة النمطية المعروفة عن بيئة العمل في تخصص النساء والتوليد، اختارت ألا تُكرّس السلبية أو السمية. بل اختارت النزاهة، واختارت اللطف، واختارت أن تكون أفضل نسخة من نفسها، وأن تحرص على ألا يمرّ غيرها بما مرت به. هذا القرار، في نظري، يُعد من أقوى نماذج القيادة الأخلاقية في الطب.
ومن أكثر اللحظات تأثيرًا في حديثنا كان "The Object of Meaning" الخاص بالدكتورة منى. كان صادقًا ومؤثرًا للغاية، وأدمعت عيناي أثناء الاستماع إليه. القصة التي شاركتها من رحلتها تحمل رسالة عميقة، وأتمنى أن تترك أثرًا دائمًا في قلب كل من يستمع إليها. فهي تذكّرنا بالأهمية القصوى لصون كرامة المريض، والحصول على الموافقته قبل أي شيء، وتحمل المسؤولية التي تقع على عاتقنا كأطباء. فنحن لا نتعامل مع أمراض فحسب، بل نعتني ببشر يحملون مشاعر ومخاوف وثقة وُضعت بين أيدينا.

تُسلّط هذه الحلقة الضوء على رسالة جوهرية: أن الإرشاد والتوجيه في الطب أمران في غاية الأهمية، وأنه لا مكان للغرور في الرعاية الصحية، وأن أقوى الأطباء هم أكثرهم تواضعًا، لا بعلمهم فقط، بل بأخلاقهم وإنسانيتهم.

When I first met 𝐃𝐫. 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐚 𝐀𝐛𝐝𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐡 during my fourth year of medical school, while rotating in Obstetrics and Gynecology, she immediately stood out as the kind of doctor I aspire to become. Humble, warm, compassionate, and deeply ethical. If I had to describe her in one word, it would definitely be 𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠.

She radiated positive energy and genuine kindness, treating everyone around her with respect. From day one, she made me feel like a true member of the team, not just a student present for a short period of time. That sense of belonging did more than boost my confidence; it encouraged me to participate, ask questions, engage in discussions, and show up every day with enthusiasm and a positive mindset. She created a work environment that was constructive, supportive, and uplifting for her patients, nurses, students, and colleagues alike.

As we dive into Dr. Mona’s journey in this episode, what becomes truly powerful is her conscious choice to be different. Despite the hardships she faced and despite the well-known stereotypes surrounding the OB-GYN work environment, she chose not to perpetuate negativity or toxicity. Instead, she chose integrity. She chose kindness. She chose to become the best version of herself and to ensure that no one else would have to endure what she once did. That decision, to me, is one of the strongest examples of ethical leadership in medicine.

One of the most touching moments in our conversation was Dr. Mona’s 𝑶𝒃𝒋𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝑴𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈. It was deeply heartfelt and brought tears to my eyes. The story she shared from her journey carries an important message, one that I hope leaves a lasting impact on every listener. It reminds us of the absolute importance of maintaining patient dignity, informed consent, and the responsibility we carry as doctors. We are not dealing with diseases alone; we are caring for human beings with emotions, fears, and trust placed in our hands.

This episode highlights an essential message: that mentorship matters, that there is no place for toxicity or arrogance in healthcare, and that the strongest doctors are often the most humble ones, not just the most knowledgeable.

Choosing Prof. Manda Venkatramana as my very first guest was not a coincidence; it was a necessity and a deeply meaningful choice. A way to honor where I started, where my dreams were nurtured, and where I grew not only as a medical student, but as a person. During my years at Gulf Medical University, Professor Manda was more than a dean. He was a mentor, a role model, and a constant source of encouragement. Every warm smile, every kind word, every moment of belief he placed in me helped shape my confidence and my leadership. He showed me that kindness and strength can coexist, especially when the journey feels hard. I am deeply grateful to Gulf Medical University, a place that has helped me grow as a person before becoming a doctor.

Professor Manda’s journey itself deserves recognition. With the Thumbay Group since 2002, he has held multiple pivotal roles: Dean of the College of Medicine for 15 years, Vice Chancellor for Academics for over eight years, and currently, Chancellor of Gulf Medical University, the largest private medical university in the Gulf.

Through our conversation, I discovered stories about him that I had never heard before. I got to dive deeply into his journey, understand the values that shaped him, and learn from the wisdom he carries with such humility. Professor Manda shared stories that did not just inspire me; they touched my heart. His Object of Meaning resonated with me profoundly; it brought tears to my eyes and a deep sense of pride, because I felt that meaning too.

This episode is more than a conversation. It is a reflection on leadership, faith, resilience, kindness, and the quiet strength behind a life dedicated to teaching and shaping generations of doctors. I truly hope this episode inspires you, motivates you, and reminds you that leadership begins with values.

Medicine is far more than just science and the study of diagnosis and treatment of disease. It is an art, a journey shaped by ethics, compassion, responsibility, and respect for the noble profession we chose to be part of, and by the lessons that define who we become as doctors and as human beings. A Doctor's Oath is a podcast created as a space for reflection. Hosted by Dr. Shahd Abouelenen, author of the A Doctor's Oath series, this podcast explores what it truly means to be a doctor, to uphold the highest standards, and to live by the principles of the medical profession. Through honest and thoughtful conversations with physicians, educators, leaders, and inspiring figures from around the world, we dive into their journeys, the choices they had to make, and the lessons that shaped them as doctors. We discover details they have never shared before, and together, we learn from their remarkable experiences. Each episode invites a guest to share meaningful experiences, personal stories, and the values that guide their practice, reminding us that medicine is a lifelong journey of learning and reflection.