The alternative fairytale: how personal history shapes identity and resilience in medicine

Abstract

Abstract In “The Alternative Fairytale,” I explore my journey as a cardiology registrar/fellow, a path influenced deeply by my early displacement from war-torn Sudan. This piece reflects on the interplay between my professional choices and personal identity amidst the backdrop of a male-dominated field and societal expectations. It examines how my roots in a family that once fled conflict have shaped my approach to medicine—emphasizing community, empathy, and a leadership style that diverges from traditional norms. Through this narrative, I aim to redefine and help others to reflect on what success looks like in cardiology and medicine; advocating for diversity in leadership styles and highlight the importance of personal background in shaping professional paths.