01/08/2023
Title: A Journey of Sacrifice and Triumph: My Life as an OB-GYN in a Foreign Land
Introduction:
✨ I am thrilled to share my personal story as a trained/ graduate OB-GYN from the Philippines who embarked on a challenging yet rewarding journey in Saudi Arabia. Through this post, I hope to inspire and engage in meaningful discussions about resilience, cultural adaptation, and the pursuit of professional success amidst personal sacrifices.
Chapter 1: A Mission of Love
🌸 Fueled by a deep sense of love and duty, I made the decision to relocate to Saudi Arabia to support my ailing “only” brother. Fresh out of residency training, armed with determination and a heart full of hope, I began my journey as an OB-GYN in a foreign land.
Chapter 2: A Family United
🌸 Accompanied by my caring husband, also a doctor, and our three precious children, I embarked on this adventure. Together, we faced the challenges of acclimating to a new environment, while ensuring our children's well-being in a foreign country. With the help of a loving nanny, we created a supportive and loving foundation for our family.
Chapter 3: Navigating Loss and Responsibilities
🌸 As time passed, my family encountered heartbreaking losses. We mourned the passing of my beloved brother and, later, my parents. As the sole remaining child, the responsibility to support and care for them fell squarely on my shoulders. Balancing the demands of my medical career and the emotional toll of personal loss became an immense challenge.
Chapter 4: Triumphing Over Adversity
🌸 As an OB-GYN in Saudi Arabia, adapting to unfamiliar cultures and working alongside doctors trained abroad presented inherent challenges. Determined to excel, I dedicated myself to learning, adapting, and understanding the unique perspectives and practices of my colleagues. Through hard work, perseverance, and proving my worth, I earned their respect and trust.
Chapter 5: A Bittersweet Separation
🌸 When my daughter graduated from high school, and my two sons transitioned to high school, we made the difficult decision for them to return to the Philippines to pursue their studies. This separation posed new challenges as I adjusted to being away from my children, relying on technology to bridge the distance and maintain our bond.
Chapter 6: Embracing Identity and Diversity
🌸 Being a Filipino in a Middle Eastern country comes with its own set of challenges. I experienced moments of cultural differences, language barriers, and the need to adapt and find common ground while staying true to my identity. Embracing diversity and fostering understanding became essential in navigating both personal and professional spheres.
Conclusion:
✨ My life as an OB-GYN in Saudi Arabia has been marked by sacrifices, triumphs, and personal growth. Through unwavering determination, I managed to overcome immense challenges, support my family, and gain professional recognition. I invite you to join me in a discussion about resilience, cultural adaptation, and the pursuit of one's dreams amidst personal sacrifices.
Let's celebrate diversity and inspire each other to overcome obstacles in our own lives.
God bless us all🙏🏻
“Dr Adnan Ashour”
