For Amalia Hernandez ophthalmology is no longer a dream. The sight celebrates its World Day and Ariguanabo Radio aims to weigh the importance of ophthalmology, therefore we talk with a doctor who begins her path in this specialty.
It is very curious that a child wants to become a doctor to specialize in ophthalmology. How was your particular case?
I had no ideas on what ophthalmology delt with because in Cuba these specialists were called opticians. What is certain is my curiosity about the human eye, as I always wondered how I could see everything with the eyes, then I said I would be an "eye doctor".
Do you think to live in Cuba helped you to fulfill that dream?
It is obvious, my biggest problem was deciding between studying medicine or dentistry and then pediatrics or ophthalmology. Perhaps in another country I could have never ask those things. Here, however, I could choose between two high demandable specialties and study free of charge. Cuba is essential. Before 1959 in this country there was only one medical school graduating only about 300 doctors a year. Health services were mainly healing. Today is completely different.
You already studied the specialty you wanted, Do you still percive magic on ophthalmology?
Imagine that you can restore vision to someone. Patients come without seeing, with a walking stick that helps them walk and then they leave the hospital completely healthy thanks to your performance. Who can not see magic there?
It is difficult, medicine is complicated. This career requires a lot of sacrifice and a devotion. But, one day, all is compensated¸ for me, when I could make my first surgery, then everything will be worth it.
Tell us about your plans within cuban ophthalmology.
I want to finish the specialty smoothly and be engage in surgery and if possible be part of "Operación Milagro". So far I've always done what I wanted and I think that being part of this humanitarian project can be entirely possible. Thus ends our conversation. The result is a motivating publication to celebrate the Sight World Day.
