Today we’d like to introduce you to Sahar Bhojani.
Hi Sahar, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hi! My name is Sahar Bhojani, from Dallas, TX.
Growing up, I was always involved in the medical community around me; whether it was through Girl Scouts, volunteering, hosting educational seminars, helping conduct research, career opportunities, etc. Medicine has always been a part of who I am, and I have witnessed impeccable stories and learned an immense amount of education and wisdom that I hope to be able to pass on. One of the most tragic moments in my life is the reason I am here today and pursuing medicine and my mission to provide quality care while empowering others so passionately.
Often times we hear the phrases, “this world is so small” or “things happen for a reason”, but it wasn’t until I was indirectly impacted by cancer that I truly understood the depth behind these words.
It all started when we received the news that my cousin had been diagnosed with Osteosarcoma. The doctor’s words pierced through my ears; I can still envision those moments. Her everyday struggle became engraved in my memories. After a few years and a hard-fought battle against cancer, she ultimately lost. This moment was devastating; however, it instilled a passion in me to serve others fighting the same hardships and to be a part of the solution to cure cancer.
The world worked in its glorious ways, and I ended up working in the same Hematology/ Oncology Clinical Research department, with the same physicians that cared for my cousin. During my time here, I realized the lack of awareness in the community about pediatric cancers, clinical research, and the trials and treatments available. Since then, I have tried to take an active stance in the community to bridge the gap. This cause is close to my heart, and I truly believe that we can make a difference if we fight together.
In 2017, I began an annual fundraiser, Reps for Remission, to create awareness about pediatric oncology and the various types of research being conducted nationwide. With more research funds, we get closer to giving children a longer and healthier life, and hopefully, a cure for cancer. This year, we created awareness specific to blood cancers, such as Leukemia and Lymphoma. Our team participated in the Light the Night event with The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. We were amongst the top teams to fundraise and help progress cancer research to get more FDA approvals for treatments. We were also honored to lead this walk and bring light to the darkness of cancer.
As I continue to pursue my Doctorate in Medicine and Master in Public Health, I hope to take this fundraiser to a national level and transform it into a non-profit organization. I hope to partner with organizations to raise awareness through conducting research, participating in clinical trials, hosting mission trips for future students, and supporting children and their families through this challenging journey.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Along with medical school, I am also pursuing a Master in Public Health at the University of North Texas Health Science Center. My goal is that by obtaining an MD/MPH, I will gain the knowledge and skills to help create self-reliant populations in regard to health and promote health education and community well-being so that healthier lifestyles can be instilled in future generations. I am excited to implement my education to improve access to healthcare, patient advocacy, and empower underserved populations.
Within the realm of healthcare, my passion lies in pediatric medicine. By working with a pediatric population, we get a unique opportunity to grow with our patients, and also help serve within their growth. Additionally, not only do we get to educate our patients but also their families, all while having the same end goal in mind- how to best help the child. Furthermore, I would like to specialize in Hematology/ Oncology to help children and their families through the tough journey of cancer.
I find serving patients and their families to be one of the most unique and rewarding opportunities in medicine. I am thrilled to continue my education and take the next steps to serve my patients.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
My passion for medicine is strongly rooted in giving back to the community and empowering others, similar to the contagion or domino theory. I say it often, and I believe in it wholeheartedly- Individually, I can do so little, but together, we can do so much! A small act when multiplied by an entire community, plus more, can transform the world, especially in the world of medicine. My passion serves and strengthens my drive and resilience every day! Together, we have only scratched the surface of childhood cancers- I can only imagine the many children and families whose lives will be extended because of all our efforts combined. It is an absolute honor to be on this end and go through, this journey with those around me, to help educate and raise awareness, to watch children and their families reach, and then surpass that finish line of remission! I am excited about all the possibilities to come for the future of research and treatments for childhood cancers!
Contact Info:
- Email: Repsforremission@gmail.com
- Instagram: @repsforremission https://instagram.com/repsforremission?igshid=YWJhMjlhZTc=
- Instagram: @sahar_bhojani https://instagram.com/sahar_bhojani?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
