Interview with Dr. Mwangi: A Trailblazer in Neurology and Neurosurgery

Dr. Mwangi, a distinguished neurologist and neurosurgeon based in Nairobi, Kenya, has paved the way for aspiring doctors in her field. With a career spanning over 20 years, she has become a leading figure in understanding and treating complex neurological disorders. Dr. Mwangi is also a passionate mentor, advocating for better access to healthcare and medical education across Africa.

Recently, Dr. Mwangi shared her experiences and insights with us, shedding light on what it takes to thrive in such a demanding field. Here's the interview:

Q: Thank you for joining us, Dr. Mwangi. Could you start by sharing what inspired you to pursue a career in neurology and neurosurgery?

A: Thank you for having me! My journey into neurology and neurosurgery began during my clinical rotations in medical school. I was fascinated by the complexity of the brain and the nervous system. Witnessing how tiny interventions could lead to significant recoveries ignited my passion. Neuroscience remains one of the most underexplored fields in medicine, and I was drawn to the challenge of understanding and improving treatments for these intricate systems.

Q: What does a typical day look like for you as a neurologist and neurosurgeon?

A: My day starts early, around 6:30 a.m., with a review of patient cases and hospital rounds. By 8:00 a.m., I’m in surgery, which can range from removing brain tumors to spinal decompressions. Each surgery requires immense focus and precision.

Afternoons are typically reserved for patient consultations and follow-ups. These sessions are crucial for educating patients and their families about treatment plans and recovery expectations. I also spend time mentoring medical students and working on research projects to advance our understanding of neurological disorders.

By evening, I’m catching up on administrative tasks, reviewing patient records, or planning surgeries for the next day. It’s a demanding schedule, but the outcomes make it worth every effort.

Q: What’s the most challenging aspect of your work, and how do you manage it?

A: The emotional weight of delivering bad news is one of the hardest parts. Whether it's informing a patient about a terminal condition or discussing the risks of a complex surgery, it’s never easy.

To manage this, I’ve learned to approach every conversation with empathy and honesty. Having a strong support system of colleagues, family, and friends also helps. Additionally, I make time for mindfulness practices like yoga and journaling to decompress after a long day.

Q: You mentioned mentorship earlier. How important is mentorship in your field?

A: It’s incredibly important. Neurosurgery and neurology are demanding fields, and having a mentor can make all the difference. I had mentors who guided me through complex surgeries and tough career decisions. Now, I’m committed to paying it forward.

I encourage young doctors to ask questions, embrace lifelong learning, and never shy away from challenges. Representation matters, and I hope my journey inspires more women to pursue careers in neurosurgery and neurology.

Q: What advice would you give to high school students considering a career in medicine, specifically neurology or neurosurgery?

A: First, cultivate a genuine passion for learning. Neurology and neurosurgery demand a strong foundation in science and critical thinking. Beyond academics, develop resilience—this field requires long hours and emotional stamina.

Second, seek out opportunities to shadow doctors, volunteer in hospitals, or join pre-med programs. Hands-on experience is invaluable in helping you decide if this is the right path for you.

Finally, stay curious and open-minded. Medicine is constantly evolving, and you need to adapt to new discoveries and technologies.

Q: What’s the most rewarding part of your career?

A: Watching a patient recover after a life-altering surgery is incredibly fulfilling. I’ve had cases where patients who were paralyzed regain mobility or individuals with debilitating seizures find relief. Seeing the relief and gratitude on their faces reminds me why I chose this path.

Q: How do you see the future of neurology and neurosurgery evolving?

A: The future is exciting. Advances in minimally invasive surgery, artificial intelligence, and neuroimaging are revolutionizing how we diagnose and treat neurological conditions. I’m particularly excited about regenerative medicine and its potential to repair damaged neural tissue.

In regions like Africa, we must also focus on improving access to neurosurgical care. Collaborations between international organizations and local institutions are crucial to building capacity and infrastructure.

Q: Dr. Mwangi, thank you for sharing your journey and insights. Do you have any parting advice for aspiring medical professionals? 

A: Thank you for the opportunity! My advice is simple: never stop learning, stay compassionate, and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Medicine is a journey, not a destination. Whether you’re in the operating room or consulting with patients, always remember the privilege and responsibility of being a healer.
 

About Dr. Mwangi 

Dr. Mwangi is a neurologist and neurosurgeon based in Nairobi, Kenya. She has been one of the heads of Neurosurgery at Kenyatta National Hospital and a visiting lecturer at the University of Nairobi. Dr. Mwangi completed her medical degree at the same university and her neurosurgical residency at Columbia University. She is a passionate advocate for healthcare equity and mentors aspiring doctors across Africa.

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Recent Articles , Pre-health, Medical Electives,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Dec 17, 2024