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Giants and Everyday Heroes

By Jessica Hanley, MD

As a female hand surgeon early in my career, I can honestly say that I have always felt fully supported every step of the way and have been blessed with many incredible mentors, both male and female. However, even just a few decades ago, life as a female in surgery wasn’t always so favorable. I am acutely aware that my positive experiences are because of the women who came before me; those who changed the topography for females in surgery today.  

Having completed orthopaedic surgery residency at the University of Iowa, where incredible alumni include Ruth Jackson, MD, the first female board certified orthopaedic surgeon and Kristy Weber, MD, the first female president of the AAOS, I always felt like I have been standing on the shoulders of giants. These women truly forged a path for women in surgery, even when the odds were against them. They have encouraged generations of women to reach new heights and roles that were previously thought to be unattainable. 

Even though we all look up to females like Ruth Jackson, MD and Kristy Weber, MD, I have many of my own personal “everyday heroes.” These are the women who walked me through my first carpal tunnel in residency and guided me through my last pollicization of fellowship.  Women like Ericka Lawler, MD, Brandon Earp, MD, Andrea Bauer, MD and Carley Vuillermin, MBBS. These are the women who show up, day in and day out, and get the job done. These women are some of the most talented surgeons I’ve ever seen, but also some of the most humble and down to earth people you will ever meet. These women are wives and moms, but also incredible leaders in their field. These are women who aren’t afraid to speak their mind or voice their opinion. They are living proof that you can be a fierce leader and still be a kind person. 

By simply being amazing surgeons and positive role models, these “everyday heroes” are constantly reshaping the landscape and raising the standards for future hand surgeons. These women maybe don’t realize it, but they are paving the way for an even better future for generations of female surgeons to come.

Comments (2)
Anonymous
March 19, 2020 10:10 pm

It is evident Dr. Fishman expected competency and made you feel valued.

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Anonymous
March 19, 2020 10:12 pm

As you pave the way for women surgeons, too.

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