2025
I started keeping a journal in 2024. Being able to express myself freely there reduced the need to create online journals. But some years deserve to be shared. 2025 was one of those years. It brought me three countries, one major career confirmation, and the most significant role change of my life: becoming a father.
Career Clarity
In January, I seriously considered a shift to oncology. The potential for breakthrough work was compelling. There is something magnetic about a field where discoveries can fundamentally change outcomes. But as I completed that rotation, the pain points became impossible to ignore. Since housemanship, cardiology has held me. It was my first medical rotation, and I enjoyed studying the heart, the mechanics, the logic, and the elegant problem-solving it demands. Over time, I have flirted with other specialties, and here is what I have learned: every specialty has pain points. Many are doable if you can live with their frustrations. But tolerating is not the same as choosing. Sometimes the first instinct is the right one. I am sticking with what captured me initially.
Travels
2025 took me to three countries. In March, I travelled to Chicago for a conference, with some holiday time after. Chicago was brilliant for reconnecting, full of laughter, long conversations, and moments that reminded me how nourishing old friendships can be. The highlight was a boat ride at dusk with my wife. Watching that view together was beautiful in the way that quiets you and makes you simply take it in. From Chicago, we flew to Cancun, Mexico, for what became the best holiday of my life. Four days of pure bliss at an all-inclusive resort. Food, drinks, games, everything curated so all you have to do is bathe, dress up, and present yourself. There is something deeply restorative about not having to decide anything. Later in the year, I travelled to Portugal for two weeks of training in research methods. More than the training, it was the people that stood out. Over 20 countries were represented. We explored Lisbon together, and I loved its impossible inclines, streets that felt like they ended at cliffs, and the yellow trams navigating slopes that seemed unreal.
Personal Milestones
In April, we found out we were pregnant. My wife carried the pregnancy with grace and gave birth to Marizu on the 17th of December. We are now in the thick of the newborn phase, and it is marvellous to see what a beautiful boy we made. What has struck me most is the community that showed up. A friend arrived the next day with three containers of ji mmiri oku for my wife. My aunt also sent a massive bowl. I am deeply grateful for the gift of friends and family we have in this country.
Professional Wins
I published my first book this year, Flourishing in the UK: An Immigrant Doctor’s Guide. I am humbled to be able to help those coming after me settle into a new country and new roles. In November, a poster I presented on significant limitations to diagnosing non-communicable diseases in sub-Saharan Africa was selected as a best poster. Both achievements feel distant now. I am currently laser-focused on Marizu during the brief paternity leave I have. Everything else can wait.
Looking Ahead
The things I am grateful for this year are simple and profound: my wife, my son, my career, family, and community. The new year will bring a mix of wins, challenges, and losses. My prayer for you is that God gives you the presence of mind to celebrate the journey and not be overwhelmed by its challenges. 2026 is a loaded year. I am watching with bated breath what it holds. May it surprise us in the best ways.