Name: Dr. Piyush Ojha, MBBS, MD, DM
Hometown: Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh, India
Current Position: Stroke Neurologist, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India
Q: What made you interested in a career in stroke?
A: During my neurology residency, I attended the World Stroke Congress held in Hyderabad, India, where I presented two papers. I also got a chance to meet some of the best brains working in the field of stroke. Looking at the recent developments in the area of stroke over the last five years, I was inclined towards making stroke my future career.
Q: What has been your career path into this field?
A: After finishing my neurology residency, I worked at a hospital at Jabalpur, India, where I tried to create stroke awareness by conducting many talks and public awareness programs. Then, I was lucky enough to be selected as a stroke fellow with the prestigious Calgary Stroke Program, where I got an opportunity to work with an excellent team of dedicated stroke neurologists and fellows.
Q: Who is your stroke mentor or stroke hero?
A: I have been lucky enough to be trained and guided by excellent teachers and mentors such as Dr. Andrew Demchuk, Dr. Arvind Sharma, Dr. Michael Hill, Dr. Mohammed Almekhlafi, Dr. Bijoy Menon, and Dr. M.S. Johri.
Q: What is a piece of advice you would give to a trainee?
A: Understand what you really want to give and receive while working in this field so that you can set realistic goals and then work hard to achieve your goals; everything else will follow. There are no shortcuts, and don’t expect to find any. The harder you work, the more satisfied you will be.
Q: What is your favorite hobby or way of de-stressing?
A: Coming home after a long day and spending that time with my wife and kids is the biggest stress buster. Apart from that, listening to soulful music, singing, and playing cricket and basketball are my hobbies.
Q: What is a good book you read recently that you recommend?
A: I recently finished a book, “The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership” by John C. Maxwell. Dr. Andrew Demchuk recommended this book to me, and I found it very interesting and motivating.
Q: What is your favorite place to travel to?
A: Among the places I have travelled, I have enjoyed Banff and Niagara Falls the most.
