Passion, Purpose, and Pediatric Hematology Oncology with Dr. Jasmine Smith
Introduction and Background:
In this episode of the Black Doctors podcast, Steven Bradley welcomes Dr. Jasmine Smith, a pediatric hematology oncology resident currently training in Tennessee. Dr. Smith delves into her personal journey, shedding light on her past and explaining how she found her way into this niche medical field. From an early passion for gynecology, driven by her personal experience, to being motivated by her younger brother’s osteosarcoma diagnosis, Dr. Smith’s story is a testament to personal connection driving professional decisions.
Personal Passions and Pathways:
While medicine remains Dr. Smith’s primary focus, she also reveals her love for dance, tracing it back to her childhood. Her dance journey started in high school and continued into college. Steven also shares his personal passion for music, emphasizing the importance of having a life outside medicine. Dr. Smith’s multifaceted life also includes her time in the army, influenced by her mother’s ultimatum about education expenses. Despite the challenges, her military experience added a unique dimension to her life, teaching her discipline and resilience.
Deep Dive into Pediatric Hematology Oncology:
The world of pediatric hematology oncology is vast and complex. Dr. Smith explains how the field is a combination of two subspecialties, namely hematology (dealing with blood disorders) and oncology (focusing on cancers). Trainees, like Dr. Smith, undergo rigorous clinical rotations to gain a deep understanding of various diseases and treatments. With an intense first year, followed by two years primarily focused on research, the program at St. Jude is uniquely structured. Dr. Smith’s personal connection to osteosarcoma, due to her brother’s battle with the disease, has further solidified her decision to specialize in this area, showcasing the blend of personal and professional in her journey.
Don’t miss this insightful conversation that delves deep into the life, challenges, and aspirations of a budding pediatric oncologist. Plus, find the link to Dr. Smith’s dance videos in the show notes!
**Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FM
If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.
In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.
Leave a voice memo that we can include in a future episode: Pass The Mic
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.