Informed Consent

Is it in middle school that we learn about the scientific process and how at it’s foundation is the continued asking of questions. We were told that there were no stupid questions and that in fact, asking questions was a sign of forward thinking, a way to constantly how and expand your mind.

When I was in undergrad. I was gifted by and awakened to the seriousness and significance of women’s rights. I had the most amazing, thought leading friends and educational community who imparted on me that we had (and still have) a fundamental right and a responsibility to advocate and respect other women for the decisions we make for our bodies.

I took a deep dive at the time into history of sexism in the health care setting. The atrocities of forced hysterectomies, of my grandmother being tethered to a bed and drugged into unconsciousness in order to give birth (for her own safety). Stories of pregnant women like my mom, who were quietly and shushedly sent to homes for unwed mothers, where they were berated and shamed into motherhood because “we” knew what was best for them and their children.

During these university years, I was taught to have upmost consideration for my body and that NO really did mean NO. This was empowering. I took it to heart. I was gifted with a level of respect for myself which was forged by the courageous ones who came before me.

As the “my body my choice” conversation expanded beyond women and into the LGBTQ community (albeit slow), I was inspired by the evolution of the human spirit. I felt relieved and proud and inspired about the fact that we were finally having this dialogue and that we were making space for the idea that we all have a choice to do what’s best for who we are, at our very core. It was inspiring and I was felt hopeful.

In grad school, I started learning about the scientific method as it applies to research and development. I was exposed and involved with research that came to be published. At the time, it time and time again, made imperative that we understand, adhere to and never waiver from the process of informed consent.

When I became an American citizen, it felt special to stand in a room with other people from all all around the world, taking an oath to uphold the constitution.