Back to Board

Quality

Dr. Barbora East

barbora.east@gmail.com

1. What made you choose abdominal wall surgery?

I’ve found my passion in hernia surgery thanks to the optimism that surrounds it, the exceptional group of individuals involved, and the incredible amount of empowerment I received from the world-renowned faculty during my early training years. The sense of camaraderie and support within the #HerniaFamily is simply unparalleled, and it has been an absolute pleasure to be a part of it. In many ways, it feels like my calling and my destiny to continue pursuing this field.

2. What are your ambitions and goals to serve the EHS Board?

My goal is to pay forward the opportunities that were given to me and go beyond them. I believe in the importance of inclusivity, and that means providing support and resources to individuals from all countries. By empowering them with training and confidence, we can help break down the barriers that stand in the way of their professional, scientific, or academic growth. I’m committed to helping them overcome their personal obstacles, including glass ceilings, so that they can reach their full potential.

3. Where do you get your motivation and inspiration in life?

My ultimate motivation and inspiration stem from a profound sense of purpose and meaning in life. I’m driven by the belief that each of us has a unique role to play in the world, and I’m committed to fulfilling mine to the best of my abilities. For me, nothing brings greater joy than making someone else happy, and this serves as a never-ending source of satisfaction. I firmly believe that there is always someone in need of help, and I’m eager to lend my support whenever and wherever I can. None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of my family, friends, colleagues, and mentors, who have been instrumental in shaping my worldview and encouraging me to pursue my passions.

4. What are the biggest challenges in the abdominal wall surgery right now?

The biggest challenges in abdominal wall surgery today can be attributed to two factors: ignorance and arrogance. While the global #HerniaFamily is dedicated to improving patient outcomes through collaboration and mutual support, we still face significant barriers. Despite our efforts, many surgeons continue to operate without adhering to basic principles and may only perform a few hernia surgeries each year, leading to suboptimal outcomes for patients. In addition, some physicians consider hernia surgery beneath them and fail to update their knowledge or skills in this area. Unfortunately, it’s the patients who suffer as a result. Ultimately, I hope for a future where medical practitioners who disregard knowledge are held accountable and not allowed to practice medicine.

5. What is your hidden talent?

My ‘hidden talent’ is not so hidden after all – it’s the ability to turn any situation into a faux pas. I have an irresistible urge to speak my mind, which sometimes leads to awkward moments that can resemble the Emperor’s New Clothes fairy tale. Despite this, I embrace my role as the ‘queen of faux pas’ with humor and grace. In addition to my knack for unintentional blunders, I’m also skilled in two other areas: eating chocolates and cooking dishes that no one else would dare to try. So, perhaps my true talent lies in exploring the boundaries of good taste – both figuratively and literally!

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Back to Board

Quality

Dr. Barbora East

barbora.east@gmail.com

1. What made you choose abdominal wall surgery?

I’ve found my passion in hernia surgery thanks to the optimism that surrounds it, the exceptional group of individuals involved, and the incredible amount of empowerment I received from the world-renowned faculty during my early training years. The sense of camaraderie and support within the #HerniaFamily is simply unparalleled, and it has been an absolute pleasure to be a part of it. In many ways, it feels like my calling and my destiny to continue pursuing this field.

2. What are your ambitions and goals to serve the EHS Board?

My goal is to pay forward the opportunities that were given to me and go beyond them. I believe in the importance of inclusivity, and that means providing support and resources to individuals from all countries. By empowering them with training and confidence, we can help break down the barriers that stand in the way of their professional, scientific, or academic growth. I’m committed to helping them overcome their personal obstacles, including glass ceilings, so that they can reach their full potential.

3. Where do you get your motivation and inspiration in life?

My ultimate motivation and inspiration stem from a profound sense of purpose and meaning in life. I’m driven by the belief that each of us has a unique role to play in the world, and I’m committed to fulfilling mine to the best of my abilities. For me, nothing brings greater joy than making someone else happy, and this serves as a never-ending source of satisfaction. I firmly believe that there is always someone in need of help, and I’m eager to lend my support whenever and wherever I can. None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of my family, friends, colleagues, and mentors, who have been instrumental in shaping my worldview and encouraging me to pursue my passions.

4. What are the biggest challenges in the abdominal wall surgery right now?

The biggest challenges in abdominal wall surgery today can be attributed to two factors: ignorance and arrogance. While the global #HerniaFamily is dedicated to improving patient outcomes through collaboration and mutual support, we still face significant barriers. Despite our efforts, many surgeons continue to operate without adhering to basic principles and may only perform a few hernia surgeries each year, leading to suboptimal outcomes for patients. In addition, some physicians consider hernia surgery beneath them and fail to update their knowledge or skills in this area. Unfortunately, it’s the patients who suffer as a result. Ultimately, I hope for a future where medical practitioners who disregard knowledge are held accountable and not allowed to practice medicine.

5. What is your hidden talent?

My ‘hidden talent’ is not so hidden after all – it’s the ability to turn any situation into a faux pas. I have an irresistible urge to speak my mind, which sometimes leads to awkward moments that can resemble the Emperor’s New Clothes fairy tale. Despite this, I embrace my role as the ‘queen of faux pas’ with humor and grace. In addition to my knack for unintentional blunders, I’m also skilled in two other areas: eating chocolates and cooking dishes that no one else would dare to try. So, perhaps my true talent lies in exploring the boundaries of good taste – both figuratively and literally!

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