"When I finish my studies, I will return home. I will work as a neurosurgeon and help develop education in Russia and Zambia": Musa Gerald, a postgraduate neurosurgeon from Zambia

What was the most concerning in coming to Russia?

There were three main things — racism, complicated language and cold winters. But in 5 years of living here, I have never faced any discrimination. The winter turned out to be frosty, and at first it was difficult to get used to such low temperatures, but now the cold no longer seems so terrible.

What about the language?

This was the most difficult task. But when I boarded the plane to Moscow, I was ready to overcome any obstacle.

What new important things have you learned away from home?

To appreciate, respect and accept that we are all different. For the first time, I had the opportunity to communicate with people from different countries and different confessions, who spoke other languages and had their own history. I realized that we are parts of the same puzzle, and the differences is what holds us together.

What was so attracting for you in the neurosurgery program?

 

I had an internship at all departments of the Institute of Medicine, and everything was easy for me. But when I came to neurosurgery, I realized how difficult and interesting it was at the same time. In addition, there are few professional neurosurgeons in Zambia. This motivated me to move in this direction.

Who can you call your mentor?

Professor Egor Gennadyevich Chmutin, Head of the Department of Nervous Diseases and Neurosurgery named after Yuri Sergeevich Martynov, at RUDN Institute of Medicine. In difficult moments, he always helps and gives valuable advice. Thanks to him, I reached my potential, became a professional and, what is also important, a good person.

In September, you spoke at the International Congress of Neurosurgeons in Tashkent. What is your research about?

I am researching ways to treat people suffering from recurrent herniated disc of the lumbar spine. This is a big problem in neurosurgery and vertebrology.

What causes the spinal disc herniation?

Lack of physical activity, sedentary lifestyle, especially if a person spends a lot of time in incorrect posture. Curvature of the spine when lifting weights, smoking, and obesity also have an effect. For certain people spinal disc herniation occurs because of spine degeneration due to aging.

How to avoid the spinal disc herniation?

You need to strengthen your back. For example, by doing swimming, yoga or performing a set of special exercises with weights. A good balanced diet and daily sufficient intake of water also helps to keep the intervertebral discs and muscles healthy.

You now study, work, help students, write articles and participate in conferences. How do you find time to do all that?

It’s not easy, but to succeed, you need to be able to sacrifice. Sometimes, when solving a difficult task, do not be afraid to stay late at work. But do not forget to take pause. It is also important to learn how to work in a team with other people. When you distribute tasks to several people, it is easier to solve them together than if you acted alone.

Name three books that changed your life attitude…

“The Richest Man in Babylon” by George Samuel Clayson. This book taught me the basics of financial management and investing.

Viktor Frankl’s “Man in Search for Meaning” taught that in any situation there is always a certain meaning or idea, regardless of whether you consider it good or bad.

“The Magic of Large-scale Thinking” by David Schwartz says it all starts with thoughts in your head.

Who inspires you?

My parents. Their hard work and selflessness gave me strength and confidence to live and not be afraid of difficulties.

How do you relax?

I am a portrait painter, and my hobby has already become a small tradition. I spend every Sunday painting. I also learn to play the piano and read books on philosophy. I am trying not to miss any football match that we arrange among friends. I’m playing billiards. And I always visit the gym three times a week.

What Russian dish do you cook for a holiday?

My wife and I usually make borscht and pancakes, which we eat with honey and sour cream.

What will you do after you graduate RUDN?

 

I will return to Zambia to work as a neurosurgeon and teach neurology and neurosurgery. I also want to continue working with Professor Chmutin and RUDN Institute of Medicine to expand international medical programs between Russia and Zambia.

Edited by Anastasia Zhuravleva, a fourth-year student of the Faculty of Philology (Journalism).