Eye-Opening Adventure in Africa

As ACOMS Review focuses on the theme of “Adventures” for the third quarter, globe-trotter Robin Gallardi, Bsc(Hon), DDS, FACD, FICD, MS, FRCD(C), Dip ABOMS, shares that she recently embarked on an impactful trip to the continent of Africa. Dr. Gallardi shares her personal and professional reflections from the trip in this quick-hit Q&A:

Where did your adventure take you, and how are you better for having had the experience?

I traveled to Rwanda to see the gorillas in their natural habitat. It was a life-changing trip that reminded me of the importance of preserving our planet but also of the importance of being entirely present in a moment. Additionally, the country of Rwanda has completely repaired all community relations since the genocide. That is a lesson in true humanity, one that we all can learn from. I returned from this trip as a better human being, but also as a better clinician.

What did you learn with respect to OMS?

As surgeons, we often feel like we’re rushing through our days and our lives with no time to take a breath. In this frenzy, it’s easy to lose sight of the person/people standing right in front of us. But our patients deserve our full attention, and taking that extra 5 minutes can mean the difference between a positive or negative surgical outcome.

This adventure has reinforced to me the value in slowing down and being present for each and every one of my patients and for my team. In doing so, I have developed deeper, more meaningful relationships with those around me. My office has become a more supportive, cohesive environment, which subsequently leads to better, more meaningful patient care.

How would you advise other OMS professionals on making time for their passions in life?

It has always been the experiences that I’ve had outside of the office that have made me a better clinician — whether travel adventures, where exposure to new cultures broadens my outlook on life, or development courses that have made me a better leader. I choose to devote time to hobbies that develop my creative interests and, in doing so, I approach my surgical care with renewed energy. Time outside of the practice is just as essential as time in the practice. I am a far more diverse, curious, and gentle surgeon and leader because I’ve made time for hobbies and things I love.

Robin Gallardi, Bsc(Hon), DDS, FACD, FICD, MS, FRCD(C), Dip ABOMS