FoundationAnnualReport2022

their patients and their community. In my practice, I am focused on treating disorders of the spine, including tumors, degenerative and traumatic injuries, and other disorders of the nervous system. I am a member of Women in Neurosurgery, which is part of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons. I also mentor third- and fourth-year women students at my alma mater, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. Women continue to face challenges in healthcare, particularly those pursuing surgical subspecialties, trauma, and critical care as physicians and nurses. These fields are still largely male- dominated and require quite a time commitment due to the acuity of the patients, making juggling career, family, and self-care more difficult. I also take every opportunity to speak with primary and secondary school students to encourage them to pursue careers in healthcare. Encouraging and inspiring young people as early as possible is important, letting them know their dreams can be fulfilled. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, traveling, reading, and caring for patients. When I was in fifth grade, my science teacher introduced our class to the nervous system, which fascinated me. I also had a great passion for the violin. Throughout high school, I considered a career as a violinist. The orchestra conductor told me I could have one passion, so I passed on music to pursue science. Music remains my hobby. I earned my medical degree at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland and did my residency in neurosurgery at University Hospitals of Cleveland. I then completed a fellowship in spinal reconstruction at the New York University School of Medicine in New York City. I was inspired, to some degree, by my pediatrician, who was a warm and caring man. I enjoyed watching medical shows like “Ben Casey,” “Medical Center,” and “Marcus Welby, MD” and was intrigued by the doctor’s ability to figure out the problem and enact a solution. Later, I was inspired by Dr. Alexa Canady, chair of pediatric neurosurgery at Wayne State University, a woman who broke down barriers with grace and unshakable commitment. I am excited to work alongside the Firelands physicians, who are known to provide quality care to Deborah Blades, MD Neurosurgery Neurosurgeons diagnose and treat conditions that affect the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Neurosurgeons provide both surgical and nonsurgical treatments. 29