How does someone become a Sapper?

Can someone with arthritis become a neurosurgeon?

• I've wanted to become a doctor ever since I was a little girl. Now I'm in high school, and I've become interested in neurosurgery. I know I really don't have to decide what I would like to become until the last year of medical school, but I'm a little ambitious. Anyway, I've had arthritis (JRA) in my hands, feet, and hips ever since I was a baby. I was wondering if becoming a neurosurgeon wouldn't be the best idea because of this? The arthritis is really bad in my hips, and I'm supposed to get my hips replaced as soon as I get out of high school. The arthritis isn't as bad in my feet or hands. As long as I take my medicine, which I do, they shouldn't bother me at all. But I still want to know if it would be a good idea. I don't want to mess up and cause damage or even kill the patient I'd be operating on. Unlike some people I want to become a doctor not because of the money, but because I find the thought of saving lives amazing. I just find neurosurgery fascinating. Is it a bad idea to become a neurosurgeon having JRA?

• Answer:

  Being a surgeon, especially a neurosurgeon can require many hours of standing still and operating. This may take a toll on your hips and knees. Using small instruments for hours on end with your hands may be difficult as well. For now you should concentrate on doing well in school. Go to college and if you still want to be a doctor then go for it. As a medical student you will experience different specialties and see what interests you and works with your condition. Good luck!