As part of the European Society for Sports Traumatology, Knee Surgery, and Arthroscopy (ESSKA) conference, orthopedists from around the world cycled over 100 kilometers daily in the Milan, Italy area, promoting science and a healthy lifestyle.
Dr. Barak Segal, attending physician in the Section of Orthopedic Surgery at Rambam Health Care Campus (Rambam) in Haifa, Israel joined over 20 orthopedists and sports doctors in a prestigious cycling event in Milan, Italy, the only Israeli representative at the event. As part of the ESSKA conference, participants cycled over 100 kilometers daily. Segal's involvement showcased his professional excellence and underscored the value of personal connections in fostering understanding and promoting healthy living.
“Our situation is not as bad as we think,” says Segal. “When you meet people and present the ‘normal’ Israeli, you realize the world is not necessarily against us. Presence is key.”
The event, part of the ESSKA biennial international conference of which thousands of physicians attend, highlights the importance of living a healthy lifestyle and fostering international dialogue. Segal's participation demonstrated not only his commitment to health but also the power of personal connections in overcoming prejudices.
Segal says that this time, he traveled with quite a few concerns, discomfort, and even feelings of guilt. “I wasn't sure it was the right time to go abroad,” he recalls. “These days are not easy in Israel.”
Despite initial concerns about how he would be received as an Israeli, Segal found the interactions with his colleagues to be overwhelmingly positive. Conversations were filled with understanding and curiosity about Israel, leading to invitations to visit and collaborate. He believes these personal connections are crucial in changing perceptions and building bridges.
A particularly poignant connection Dr. Segal made was with a professor from Malaysia, who presented a new surgical technique that generated significant enthusiasm at the conference. Segal recalls, “I invited him to perform the procedure at Rambam. He smiled politely and said he would be happy to, but the only country he is forbidden from traveling to is Israel. I promised him that when I perform the surgery at Rambam, I would show a picture of him and pay tribute to his contribution. The next morning, I shared a breakfast table with three doctors from Malaysia. We had a lively conversation, including discussions about politics, where they expressed empathy towards our situation.”
Based on his experience at the conference, Segal concluded that while Israel's global position might suggest staying home, the opposite is true. “Everything is personal,” Segal states. “Building and strengthening relationships with colleagues around the world is a huge advantage, both professionally and nationally. Israeli professionals should be present at major events, serving as ambassadors for all that is good and great in our country.”
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