Christine Chilaka

Christine as a medical student

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Christine as a child

• A few basic facts about me:

  I’m currently a medical student at Ohio State College of Medicine. I will be heading to the University of Washington for residency!

• What kind of identities do you inhabit?

  Black, cisgender woman

• The path to medicine is not easy. Can you tell us why you decided to pursue it?

  I fell in love with medicine through my mother. She has been in healthcare for 30+ years. I remember the joy in here eyes when she would talk about her job when I was little; her love for helping people. I felt that when I would volunteer at the hospital she worked at. That was my introduction to the beauty of medicine. This was solidified by watching my younger sister navigate the health system. She experienced various barriers due to her disability and I wanted to be someone who helped advocate for health equity.

• Can you describe a challenging moment in medicine that made you rethink your career path?

  When my father passed in 2020, I struggled through my 3rd year of medical school. There is no manual for how to deal with grief while in medical school during a pandemic. I stayed strong in my faith and leaned on family and friends. I also meditated and practiced mindfulness.

• How do you see a career in PM&R as advancing equity?

  In my book, PM&R stands for "Pushers, Movers and Revolutioners!" Advocacy is at the core of this profession. We are lucky enough to help "after the cure or treatment" and work with patients to establish their new normal.

• Can you tell us a little bit of your aspirations - either for your career or for the field of medicine (if you’re a medical student?)

  I am interested in pelvic rehab, cancer rehab and pain medicine. I also hope to continue to advocate for disability inclusion in and out of the hospital.

• Where can we find you on social media?

  Instagram

  Twitter

Last updated 04/2022