Walls to bridges: My story of Focus, Determination, and Success

Walls to bridges: My story of Focus, Determination, and Success

11/20/2024

Manila, Philippines

Part I: The Wall Reappears

Six years ago, I wrote the words, ‘I conquered the wall.’

It was an affirmation, a declaration of faith and determination that I would pass the board exam in Medicine, even though I had to review alone. And I did. That moment proved to me that with focus and resilience, I could overcome even the toughest challenges.

After passing the board exam, I embarked on another demanding journey—residency training in Family and Community Medicine. Residency was an arduous process, made even more difficult by the arrival of the pandemic. The demands were relentless, and the weight of responsibility felt heavier than ever. I found myself losing the motivation to push through. At some point, I just wanted to graduate, to get it all done and over with.

Despite my waning enthusiasm, I eventually reached a significant milestone. On August 13, I was conferred the degree of CFP (Certified Family Physician). It was a remarkable achievement, but it came at an emotionally taxing time. While preparing for the certification, I was also caring for my father, who was fighting for his life. Two days after I became a CFP, my father passed away.

His death was pivotal in my decision to take the diplomate exam sooner rather than later. Grieving and emotionally drained, I knew this choice would be incredibly risky and difficult. But I also realized that there was no reason to delay any longer. My father’s passing ignited a resolve in me: I would face this next difficult journey head-on, no matter what.

The road was filled with distractions—personal struggles, business matters, financial challenges, and more. At times, these obstacles seemed insurmountable. Yet, deep inside me, I knew I needed to be resilient and focused. There was no other way forward.

Despite the chaos, I carved out time to study. Sometimes, it was in the most awkward and unconventional places, but every moment counted. I reminded myself that if I had conquered the wall before, I could do it again. With each step forward, I began to rebuild my focus, brick by brick, determined to transform every distraction into an opportunity to grow stronger.

Part II: Building the Bridge

In moments of doubt, I found myself asking the hardest question: Why am I doing this? It’s far easier to quit than to keep pushing forward, especially when the odds feel insurmountable. But then I remembered the fundamental reason why I chose to be a doctor in the first place.

When I was just four years old, my mother passed away due to medical malpractice. That loss was more than just a tragedy—it became personal. From that moment, I knew I wanted to make a difference in the lives of others, to prevent such loss for other families. That is my why.

The recent passing of my father became a catalyst, reigniting this purpose. It was deeply painful to realize that despite all my training to become a “7-star physician,” I could not take care of my own parents because they were gone. This loss made my mission even clearer: I had to keep going, for them and for myself.

I began to look beyond the current struggles, envisioning the end of this journey. I realized I couldn’t remain at this level; stagnation was not an option. The only way forward was to pursue, to grow, and to honor my parents’ legacy by becoming the best version of myself.

Our recent trip to Perth opened my eyes even further. The healthcare system and quality of life in Australia were so far ahead of what we have in the Philippines—it was a stark contrast that I couldn’t ignore. It struck me that it might take a thousand years for our country to achieve such a standard. I couldn’t deny myself or my family the possibility of a better life, one that was presented so clearly in front of me. That vision became another driving force.

So I studied. Despite the distractions, the overwhelming grief, and the weight of everything bearing down on me, I studied as best as I could. I studied desperately, squeezing time in between business engagements, meetings, and personal obligations. I created systems and structures that worked for me, no matter how unconventional they seemed.

Throughout this journey, only a handful of people knew what I was going through. My wife, my friends, and the people closest to me were my pillars of support. I didn’t broadcast my plan to take the diplomate exam; it was a quiet, personal decision. In my heart, I knew my father was supporting me too, even from the afterlife. I kept seeing him in my dreams, and I took those dreams as his encouragement to keep going.

And, of course, coffee. Coffee was my constant companion, making the grueling process a little more sustainable and a lot more bearable.

Through it all, I stayed anchored to my why. That purpose, born out of loss and strengthened by my journey, became the bridge I needed to move forward, one step at a time.

Part III: Crossing Over

The diplomate exam came in two parts: the written exam, which I took on October 5, 2024, and the OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) on November 23, 2024.

The written exam was a mix of anxiety and confidence. As I walked out of the exam room, I felt a blend of uncertainty and cautious optimism. I knew I had made mistakes, but I also knew there were answers I had nailed. Doubts crept in, as they always do, but I held onto the belief that I had done my best.

The OSCE was a completely different challenge. It was the most nerve-racking examination I had ever faced. Each station demanded not just clinical knowledge but quick thinking, composure, and the ability to articulate responses under pressure. Moving from one station to the next felt like an emotional and intellectual marathon.

When the results were finally released, I learned that I had passed. The moment I saw my name on the list, a wave of relief and gratitude washed over me. All the sleepless nights, sacrifices, and challenges were worth it.

I owe this achievement to so many people. To God, who gave me the strength and guidance to persevere through this journey. To my wife, Andrea, whose unwavering support and love were my anchor. To our fur babies, who brought light to my darkest days. To our family and friends, whose encouragement kept me going. And most importantly, to my dad. This triumph is for you, Dad. I know you’ve been watching over me every step of the way.

This journey taught me that success isn’t just about reaching the goal—it’s about enduring the struggles, embracing the lessons, and finding strength in the people who believe in you. My story doesn’t end here; it’s only the beginning of the bridges I will continue to build.

I am Daryl Joel C Dumdum, RN, MD, DFM 

I am Nexus MD