The Heart of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology with Dr. Jack Bartram | Episode 9

The Heart of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology with Dr. Jack Bartram | Episode 9

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.

A Rewarding Journey from Student to Faculty Member with Dr. Baljinder Singh | Episode 8

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.”

The Art of Leadership and Living a Healthy Life with Dr. Ahmed Moustafa | فن القيادة واتباع أسلوب حياة صحي مع الدكتور أحمد مصطفى | Episode 7

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.

The Journey to a Goal Through Patience and Perseverance with Dr. Huda Sadek | رحلة الوصول إلى الهدف بين الصبر والإصرار مع الدكتورة هدى صادق | Episode 6

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.

The Key to Successful Leadership and Growth with Mr. Akbar Moideen Thumbay | Episode 5

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.