It hasn’t been the easiest path. Most of my friends who graduated at the same time had already completed their specialisation training while I still felt stuck in time.

But a delayed path is not necessarily a closed one. Sometimes, a different door opens onto the same calling.

Here I am today, doing what I’ve always wanted to do, with the privilege of serving some of our most vulnerable and critically ill patients daily.
 

Beyond the operating theatre

I’ve also had the opportunity to be involved in a couple of research projects.

One of the studies I’m most excited about is the placement of an artificial bone construct in the skull after surgery to help patients improve their quality of life and function.

We have just obtained ethics and funding approval and are looking forward to recruiting our first participants.

Managing clinical work, training and research is a heavy load, but I remind myself to stay grounded and hold fast to humility.

Surgery demands focus, but humility keeps me steady. There’s no room for ego in the operating theatre—mistakes can affect the patient and their family for life. Excellence is the goal, but self-awareness is essential. If you’re tired, inexperienced, or uncertain, asking for help isn’t weakness—it’s responsibility.

In the end, it’s never about pride; it’s about a patient’s life and well-being.
 

Finding balance

To aspiring doctors: take that first step. Don’t be afraid to seize an opportunity—it may never come by again.

Even though it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the demands of the job, I try and set aside time for myself.

I’m an avid snowboarder. It’s one of my favourite things to do—I’ve never been sad while snowboarding. 

My most recent ski trip was in January when I went with a few friends to Japan, to the northern outskirts where there’s more open space and fewer crowds.

These moments on the mountains help me de-stress and stay focused on the long path ahead.

While life in medicine is challenging, it is also profoundly rewarding. I hope to be able to inspire others and care for patients with the same dedication and compassion that have guided me throughout my journey.

As told to Alice Chia, Senior Media & Content Specialist