Personal Journey

1. Introduction to Background:

Growing up in a small village in Haryana, healthcare was often inaccessible. My family, like many others in our community, had little exposure to formal education, let alone the field of medicine. Witnessing family and friends struggle to get even basic medical attention became my driving force to pursue a career in healthcare. The initial years of my schooling were far from ideal, with limited resources and instruction in Hindi, which made it challenging to dream of a career in medicine.

2. Overcoming Challenges

Attending a Hindi-medium school meant that I had to put in double the effort when it came to understanding complex medical concepts taught in English later during medical college. I spent countless nights translating textbooks, teaching myself medical terminology, and seeking out mentors who could bridge the gap. There were moments of doubt, especially when I compared myself to peers who had access to better schools and resources, but each challenge strengthened my resolve to not just succeed, but thrive.

3. Early Medical Education

Enrolling in Government Medical College, Rohtak, was a dream come true, but it came with its own set of challenges. The limited infrastructure and resources pushed us to be resourceful. I vividly remember the first ENT surgery I observed—it was a complex case that left a deep impression on me. I knew then that this was the path I wanted to follow. I actively sought out mentors who nurtured my interest in head and neck oncology, which later became my chosen specialty.

4. Pivot Point

While working as a general ENT surgeon, I realized that my true passion lay in more intricate and life-altering surgeries. Head and neck oncology, with its blend of precision, reconstructive challenges, and the ability to restore vital functions, deeply resonated with me. This realization led me to pursue advanced training in Kerala and, later, skull base surgery at Weill Cornell, New York. The exposure I gained during these fellowships was transformative, allowing me to bring back cutting-edge techniques to my practice in Rohtak.

5. Return to Rohtak & Establishment of Practice

Despite opportunities to work in larger cities or even abroad, my heart was set on returning to Rohtak. I knew first-hand the struggles of living in a place with limited healthcare access, and I wanted to bring world-class ENT care to my hometown. Starting my own practice came with immense financial and logistical challenges, but with perseverance and the support of my team, we established a centres that now offers the kind of specialized care typically available only in major metropolitan areas.