Ep 2. Dr. Hassan Tetteh: It Took Perseverance to Keep Going

Shefik Presents Invocation Season 1 Episode 2 features Dr. Hassan Tetteh, a celebrated surgeon, author, speaker, and healthcare leader, who shares his experiences and insights on perseverance. In this episode titled "It Took Perseverance to Keep Going," Dr. Tetteh reflects on his challenging background, from growing up in poverty in Ghana to his military service in Iraq, and how he overcame numerous obstacles to excel in his career and personal life.

The episode begins with Shefik and Dr. Tetteh discussing his upbringing in Ghana, where he grew up in a small village with his parents and six siblings. Dr. Tetteh shares how his family struggled to make ends meet, and how he often had to walk long distances to attend school and fetch water. Despite the difficulties, Dr. Tetteh was determined to succeed and pursue his dream of becoming a doctor. He worked tirelessly, often sacrificing sleep and leisure time, to excel in his studies and earn a scholarship to attend the United States Naval Academy.

Dr. Tetteh’s time in the military also posed its own set of challenges, especially during his deployment to Iraq, where he served as a surgeon. He recounts the trauma he witnessed firsthand, including caring for injured soldiers and civilians, and how he coped with the emotional toll of war. Dr. Tetteh also reflects on the lessons that he learned during his military service, such as the importance of teamwork, leadership, and adaptability.

Despite facing numerous obstacles, Dr. Tetteh never lost sight of his goals and remained determined to succeed. He emphasizes the importance of resilience in facing setbacks, and how his own experiences have shaped his outlook on life and his work as a healthcare leader. Dr. Tetteh also shares his current work in developing new medical technologies such as artificial heart valves and tissue engineering, as well as his advocacy for healthcare equity and access.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Tetteh’s enthusiasm and passion for his work are evident, as he shares his inspiring journey and offers advice for those facing challenges in their own lives. Shefik skillfully guides the conversation, asking thought-provoking questions and eliciting engaging responses from Dr. Tetteh, resulting in a captivating and insightful episode that explores the theme of perseverance.

In conclusion, Shefik Presents Invocation Season 1 Episode 2 is an inspiring and illuminating conversation between Shefik and Dr. Hassan Tetteh. Through Dr. Tetteh’s experiences, the episode showcases the power of perseverance and resilience in achieving personal and professional success, while also highlighting the important work being done in healthcare research and advocacy. Overall, this episode is a must-watch for anyone seeking inspiration and insights on how to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.