What do you think helped you the most to make a career as a woman?
I was one of two females in the mathematical science and engineering department at Johns Hopkins University. Earning both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in a male-dominated department taught me that, as a woman, there is nothing I cannot accomplish.
My husband, Dani, also a physician, has been a great influence and support as well. Understanding the demands our careers require, together we have navigated medical school, residency, and career building all while raising our four children.
Do you have any female role models that inspire you? If so, how?
As cliché as it may sound, my mother has been my biggest role model. Growing up in Morocco without access to formal education, she always said that her life goal was to provide my brother and I with opportunities to pursue our dreams. She instilled in me a passion and drive to work hard. I also credit my father, who is a physician, for inspiring me to use my passion for science and technology to meaningfully impact people’s lives.
How have roles for women in cancer care evolved?
Women in the field of medicine have increased in representation over the years and are now at the forefront of cancer research, chair academic departments, and participate as keynote speakers in national and international conferences. Studies show that gender and minority participation in organizations improves outcomes and creativity; whereas in the past, women participation in medicine was limited.
What advice would you give to the next generation of women in business?
With determination, dedication, and perseverance, anything is possible. I encourage women to be role models for the younger generation and approach each person with kindness. Seek out mentorship opportunities and leadership roles
Do you have any advice for young women who aspire to have a career in the medical field, specifically caring for cancer patients?
Caring for cancer patients requires a high level of empathy and compassion. Patients look to their physicians for strength and hope in their most trying times. Being able to provide that is almost as important as prescribing treatments for their disease. My advice to young women who aspire for a career in oncology or the medical field is to remember that taking care of cancer patients is a privilege and an honor. While the field has its challenges and some young physicians face burnout due to the high volume and regulatory environment of healthcare, it is important to maintain integrity and passion.
What inspired you to specialize in radiation oncology? How has your specialty shaped who you are?
As medical students, we had the opportunity to gain exposure to various specialties and I was immediately drawn to a career in oncology. I was impressed by the patients and their resilience, fighting attitude, and partnership with their physician. I desired to help them fight this disease, educate them, and create long lasting relationships.
Given my background, I was specifically motivated to pursue the field of radiation oncology due to its use of innovative technology and evolving advancement in treatments. I’ve learned many of life’s most profound lessons through the experiences, struggles, and triumphs of my patients, which has made my career in medicine truly rewarding. I’m reminded constantly of the privilege and trust patients bestow upon me and my colleagues to help guide them through their most difficult time, and I see first-hand the difference we make in their lives.
What do you wish people knew about breast cancer and radiation oncology?
The main treatment for breast cancer is surgery. The role of radiation therapy postoperatively is preventative, to reduce the chance of a cancer recurrence within the breast/chest wall or nearby lymph nodes. There are various radiation treatment schedules available for breast cancer depending on the cancer stage and patient’s age, with daily treatments as short as one week, three to four weeks, or up to six to seven weeks. With current modern technology, treatment plans are more customized, safer, and better tolerated.
Most patients are first introduced to the concept of radiation therapy when diagnosed with breast cancer and have fears regarding its potential harm. The one thing I hope to relay to patients is that their team of physicians will develop the best plan for their individual type of breast cancer, including whether they will benefit from radiation therapy. Our goal is to achieve the highest cure rate while maintaining the best quality of life possible.
How do you spend time outside of work?
I truly value work-life balance and feel fortunate to have been able to raise four children with my husband, Dani, all while having a rewarding career. The majority of my free time is dedicated to my family and friends, reading, and traveling. I’m always seeking out new passions and hobbies including tennis, catch-ball, and Pilates. I spend time supporting the Austin Jewish community and I’m proud to serve on the board of directors for Austin Jewish Academy (AJA). My patients inspire me daily to live life to its fullest and not take anything for granted.
Read the full story at The Jewish Outlook.