We are Women’s offers the WCH community a chance to get to know each other and share our stories. For International Women’s Day (IWD), we asked some of our staff what their vision for a gender equal future is and how they’re helping to build that future.
Name: Alexandra Millman
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Title & Department: Urologist, Department of Surgery
On the WCH team for: 1 year
1. How does your work contribute to creating a positive patient experience?
I work primarily in the Transition-Related Surgery (TRS) Program. We put a lot of effort into making patients feel safe, welcomed, and supported by our program. Our multidisciplinary team allows each team member to work to their strengths and provide the patients with outstanding care.
2. What excites you most about working at WCH?
I’m inspired by WCH’s focus on equity and innovation. It’s exciting to work amongst individuals who are keen to provide cutting edge care while always maintaining an inclusive and welcoming environment.
3. What is your vision for a gender equal future?
I look forward to a future where every person is free to express themselves freely – both personally and professionally. A future where individuals’ pursuits are not questioned based on their gender.
4. How are you helping to build that future, both at work and in your life?
My work as a Urologist challenges gender norms in and of itself. Traditionally a male-dominated specialty, I hope to provide inspiration to aspiring physicians, surgeons, and others, that women belong and can thrive in all fields.
At home, my family challenges gender norms. My husband loves to cook, so he takes on most of the cooking and grocery shopping as well as a fair amount of childcare duties. I think this is becoming common in households with two working parents and allows the next generation to see that gender need not be a determining factor in household responsibilities.
5. Who or what are you celebrating for International Women’s Day?
This International Women’s Day I am celebrating all of the incredible trans women around the world. My patients inspire me every day with their resiliency, talents, and passion.
6. Tell us one to three things that your colleagues would be surprised to learn about you!
I learned to Scuba Dive in Scotland when I went to Edinburgh for an exchange program in my undergrad. The water is very cold and the views are not nearly as exciting as more tropical places. It’s also very hard to get in and out of TWO wetsuits, which is what we used to insulate against the chilly waters!