“Growing up, my mother, who is a doctor, was my biggest inspiration. I spent a lot of time in her clinic as a child, observing her dedication and compassion. This early exposure made it clear to me that I wanted to follow her footsteps. Becoming a doctor felt like a natural choice, and the joy I find in helping my patients makes the journey incredibly rewarding.

I chose to specialize in Diabetes and Nutrition because diabetes is a major concern in India. Our love for sweets and rich foods often leads to lifestyle-related health issues. I’ve developed a treatment approach that includes diet, exercise, and medication, but I don’t believe in completely denying my patients their favorite foods. Instead, I allow for ‘cheat days’ to help them stay motivated and adhere to their diet plans more effectively.

I always treat my patients like family. During the pandemic, I had the opportunity to serve many patients through online consultations. One particular case that stands out involved a girl who contacted me because her mother had been suffering from a fever for 15 days. They were facing financial difficulties and couldn’t afford the necessary tests. I began treating her mother without charging upfront, asking for payment only after the 21-day course was completed. When it was time for payment, the girl informed me that her mother, who worked as a househelp, had lost her job and she couldn’t pay at that moment. Despite this, she promised to settle the payment once her situation improved. Three months later, she called to express her gratitude and paid the consultation fees. This incident deeply moved me and motivated me to start organizing free health camps with various organizations to ensure that financial constraints don’t prevent anyone from receiving necessary healthcare.

Balancing work and family life is a challenge, especially since both my husband and I are doctors. I work mornings to spend time with our daughter in the afternoons. If I need to be at the hospital early, our family helps out. This mutual support is crucial, and we make sure to take breaks to keep ourselves rejuvenated.

Hyderabad’s food culture is rich and diverse, but for my patients with diabetes, I emphasize moderation. I advise reducing sugar intake and focusing on a balanced diet. This approach allows them to enjoy the city’s culinary offerings while managing their health effectively.

Reflecting on my journey, there have been significant moments, such as our move to Jamshedpur right after our marriage in 2020. Adjusting to a new city and starting from scratch was challenging, but with support from friends and family, we succeeded and enjoyed four fulfilling years there. Now, back in Hyderabad, we cherish those experiences and look forward to new opportunities.

For anyone considering a career in healthcare, it requires patience and dedication, but the satisfaction of making a difference in people’s lives is truly gratifying. The path may be challenging, but the rewards are well worth the effort.”

• Dr. Meenal Khiraiya Sugandhi, Diabetologist