PGY-2 Emergency Medicine resident Dr. Hawa Henderson introduces you to Ramadan as well as herself! Read more below!
A Little About Me
I’m Dr. Hawa Henderson. I was born and raised in Knoxville, Tennessee. For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to be a doctor. Something that has always kept me motivated through this journey has been my goal to one day travel back to Sudan and help my extended family. With the current climate of Sudan, that goal is even more important now. Being a part of the inaugural class of Emergency Medicine residents was very important to me because it meant that I was part of a class that could set a new standard and be part of something new.
NGMC GME has a large population of Muslim residents, and many of us have formed bonds inside as well as outside the hospital. Small interactions mean so much, and it’s nice to have someone around that relates to your experience, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and the month that the Quran was first revealed to the prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. During this time, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, which here would be roughly 14 hours. Muslims are encouraged to spend their time in worship and performing good deeds such as praying and giving charity. Being a resident is exhausting already, so it may be helpful to keep in mind that residents observing Ramadan are running on no food or water (yes, not even water!), and their energy levels will not be at their normal level.
How Can You Support Residents Observing Ramadan?
How do you support residents who are fasting during Ramadan? Simply being aware can definitely help. It’s nice to know that our colleagues recognize that this is a special month for us. Normally during the month of Ramadan, it is tradition for Muslims to break their fast with their friends and family and perform the daily prayers together. This may not be possible for some of us residents, as the time to break fasting may fall during working hours. So, if you notice that we disappear right around sunset, that may be why. It is also important to maintain physical as well as spiritual wellness, especially during Ramadan. My favorite ways to maintain wellness are to keep in touch with my family and limit my screen time as much as possible.
As Muslims, Ramadan is something we look forward to and miss when it has passed. This beautiful month is a time for improving yourself and overall, serving others. I appreciate the opportunity to share with you a little bit about this special month.
Ramadan Mubarak!
Ramadan begins the evening of Sunday, March 10 and lasts through Tuesday, April 9.
To learn more about our Emergency Medicine residency program, visit ngmcgme.org/programs/emergency-medicine.