Voices for Change: Giving back

Reflecting on his career, Elido Pérez from AO Trauma Latin America, realized the profound impact of mentorship. As a mentor he strives to provide the structured support and encouragement he once sought, ensuring that others have the tools and confidence to navigate their professional journeys.

I grew up in Santiago, Dominican Republic, and after years of working as a doctor in Santo Domingo, our capital, I decided to return home for a while. One afternoon, an elderly woman came into my office. To my surprise, she was my former schoolteacher—the one who had always encouraged us to aim higher, even when times were tough. Now, she was the one in need of care.

This experience taught me that giving back doesn’t always mean grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s about recognizing those who shaped us and offering what we can. It felt right, and I believe that’s the essence of giving back: It’s about gratitude and closing the circle.

Looking back, I’ve realized that giving back enriches us in unexpected ways. It reminds us of where we came from and grounds us in humility. It’s not only about paying it forward but also about acknowledging that we’re all interconnected. Each act of kindness reinforces a bond that transcends the immediate moment, creating a lasting impact for both the giver and the recipient. 

During my own training and early career, I often felt the absence of structured support and mentorship. Having someone to guide me through challenges, build my confidence, and encourage open discussions about setbacks would have been invaluable. This realization motivates me to offer that kind of guidance to others, ensuring they have the tools and support that I once sought but struggled to find.

Having a role model is crucial in shaping our paths. Role models inspire us to aim higher, providing an example of what’s possible when we put in effort and dedication. They offer guidance, whether directly or through their actions, and their influence helps shape our values, decisions, and aspirations. In many ways, role models serve as a reminder that no journey is ever made alone; we all follow in someone’s footsteps as we forge our own paths.

As I have progressed in my career, I have developed a passion for helping last-year residents navigate the transition into attending positions and integrating into the medical field. I take pride in offering practical advice, whether it’s guiding them through the challenges of their first independent steps as professionals or discussing considerations for fellowship programs. I focus on helping them identify opportunities that align with their goals and strengths, ensuring they feel confident and well-prepared for the next stages of their careers. Being part of this critical phase in their professional development is deeply fulfilling, as I believe that supporting others at pivotal moments can have a lasting impact on their growth and success.

Throughout my training, I have been fortunate to learn from exceptional AO mentors and role models who have profoundly shaped my professional growth. Among them, Antonio Solano (AO Recon, Colombia) has had a particularly significant influence on me. His meticulous approach to reconstructive surgery and commitment to excellence have set a benchmark that I continuously strive to reach.

One of the most valuable lessons I learned from him was the importance of precision and strategic planning in complex cases. His emphasis on thoughtful decision-making and execution has had a lasting impact on my surgical approach. Even today, I continue to seek his guidance when faced with particularly challenging cases, as his expertise and perspective remain invaluable.

However, his mentorship extends beyond surgical training—he is a true example of how a professor can become a friend. Over the years, we have built a strong and lasting friendship, and I deeply value the connection we share.

In my journey with the AO, I have been fortunate to encounter incredible mentors and role models who have profoundly impacted my professional growth. Their expertise and encouragement have guided me through challenges and inspired me to excel. These connections have taught me the importance of collaboration and community in our field. Mentorship, I’ve learned, is a two-way street, enriching both the mentor and the mentee and creating a cycle of growth and support.

I am incredibly grateful to be part of the AO community. The support and collaboration fostered within this network continue to inspire me, reminding me that together, we can achieve great things and uplift one another along the way.