Women in the UBC Department of Orthopaedics are making significant contributions in improving musculoskeletal health and patient care while inspiring and training the next generation of orthopaedic surgeons.
In recognition of International Women’s Day, the Department is highlighting a few of our many female faculty members and trainees.
Daniella Crocker
UBC Orthopaedics Resident – PGY 2
What inspired you to pursue a career in orthopaedics?
Many things inspire me in my career but the greatest influences are my patients, my fellow residents, and the stories of other women in orthopaedics.
The patients I met the first time I was in an orthopaedic clinic were my original inspiration to go into the field. It was incredible to me that within one day of an arthroplasty operation these patients were able to regain their ability to walk and fully participate in their lives again. Patients continue to inspire me today, and it’s the personal connection with patients that keep me going during long call shifts and residency demands.
My co-residents are another continual source of inspiration. At UBC I am lucky to be part of a large group of female residents who all support and inspire one another. My cohort has 4 wonderful women in it and we play a big role in encouraging and helping one another.
Finally, all of the women who came before and paved the way in medical training and orthopaedics are great sources of inspiration. Those who managed to persevere while maintaining their empathy are my heroes. Rather than letting the process harden them, they used it as an incentive for change. Their strength and ability to rise above and keep going are truly inspirational.
What advice would you give to women wanting to pursue a career in the field of orthopaedics?
Women are absolutely capable of being orthopaedic surgeons! If that is the career that you want then go for it, and don’t let others dissuade you. Surgery is a difficult road and orthopaedics is no exception but there are many women, both with and without children, thriving in the field and you can too.