The Building That Never Turns Their Lights Off
In the heart of the city, there's a building where the lights never seem to go out, a place where the pursuit of knowledge meets the urgency of saving lives. At one level of this hospital building, nestled among life-threatening, critical, and routine samples, is where I spend my days as a medical scientist in pathology, dedicated to patient care. This lab is not just my workplace; it's a battleground where each day is a fight against a relentless enemy, receiving samples from medical emergencies to treat acute and chronic diseases. In the lab, surrounded by the latest diagnostic tools, I delve into the science landscapes where answers lurk and hide. Each sample that arrives is more than just a clinical specimen. These samples are like silent storytellers, whispering tales in a language known only to those trained to hear them.
Simultaneously, I tread another path. The pursuit of my PhD in cancer biomarker research is an extension of this quest. Here, I dive deeper into the intricacies of cancer biology. I explore the potential of novel cancer biomarkers, agents that could revolutionize how we detect and treat cancer at its earliest stages. This journey is more than academic; it's a personal commitment to play my little role in changing the narrative of cancer. In this duality of roles, as a diagnostician and a researcher, I find my purpose.
My story in this world began not with a sudden revelation but as a gradual awakening to the complexities and challenges. Drawn by a deep fascination with the human body and a burning desire to make a difference in the world of medical science, I embarked on a journey in diagnostic and cancer research. The lab is where I confront cancer's realities, and in research, I chase its eventual defeat. Together, these experiences shape my journey – a journey marked by relentless pursuit, unyielding curiosity, and the unwavering belief that one day, we will turn the tide against cancer.
Every morning, as the sun rises, painting the sky with hues of hope, I find myself reflecting on my journey as a medical scientist. In the quiet of the early morning today, the significance of the "World Cancer Day" weighs on my heart. This day is a global acknowledgment of the strides we've made and the journey ahead. It's a day that reminds us of the importance of early detection, the power of research, and the global community's united front against cancer. It's a day that unites us all in a common goal – to conquer cancer.
In this mission, every scientist, researcher, and healthcare professional plays a critical role. Together, we're not just confronting a disease; we're laying the groundwork for a world where cancer no longer casts a shadow of fear. A world where our scientific endeavors illuminate the path towards healing and hope.
"And so, our work goes on, part of a story that never ends."
Anila Hashmi _ An RCPA Clinical Scientist Trainee and Cancer Researcher.
