Girima Desai is a podiatrist specialising in musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders. She was born and raised in London but moved up to Edinburgh, Scotland to pursue a degree and career in podiatric medicine. Girima decided to find a career in healthcare because she wanted to make a positive impact every single day and this is what makes her a great practitioner. After using her experience within the NHS, Girima now works in the private sector in Buckinghamshire. Outside of podiatry, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends and taking full advantage of her unlimited cinema card- particularly, dramatic Bollywood films! It has been a lifelong dream to spend a year travelling around the world, in particular South East Asia. Her favourite country to visit has been Zanzibar, where she attended a cousin's wedding.
1 Which place, or city or country do you most feel at home in?
London and Edinburgh. Although I've spent most of my life living in London, Edinburgh will always hold a special place in my heart as this is where I evolved as a person and started my career.
2 What are your proudest achievements?
My proudest achievements would most definitely be graduating from university. I'm also extremely proud to be able to say that I give back to society by helping people in need.
3 What inspires you?
My parents. Since a young age, I have seen my parents work extremely hard to provide for our family. They have taught me to never give up on my dreams and have motivated me to keep pushing myself until I reach my goals.
4 What has been biggest obstacle in your career?
COVID-19. As a private practitioner, I have to abide by the lockdown rules, so I am unable to work. It is an extremely difficult time as I am unable to give my patients the care and service that they require.
5 Who has been the biggest influence on your career to date?
My mother. She has always encouraged me to believe in myself and has been my mentor from the very beginning. She has taught the necessary skills required within my career. I am incredibly grateful that she constantly challenges me- a bit too much, in my opinion!
6 What is the best aspect about your current role?
I am a chatterbox (I struggled in school for this reason) so interacting with my patients and getting to know them is the best part about my job.
7 And the worst?
I love my job so I don't think there is a 'worse aspect'.
8 What are your long-term goals?
To continue working and supporting our community. Patient education is very important for me. One of my long-term goals is to bring more awareness to podiatry and illnesses that can severely affect the lower limbs.
9 If you were Prime Minister, what one aspect would you change?
Having a well-rounded education is incredibly important but I believe that it is also important to teach children the basic skills required to function as an adult within society. First aid and CPR are taught in school but topics such as taxes, budgeting and critical thinking are also necessary.
10 If you were marooned on a desert island, which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why?
My great-great maternal grandfather, Darbar Gopaldas Desai. He is remembered as the first Prince in India to give up his States to become a freedom fighter against the British Raj. It would be an honour to be marooned on an island with him. Perhaps I could learn a thing or two about wisdom!
