Why GC Matters to me?

A video on YouTube about translational and transcription during embryonic stages popped my eyes, and I knew if I had to be stronger in faith and learn the power of the Divine, genetics would help me strengthen my spiritual values and and I was not wrong. I was in Grade 10 when I decided I wanted to go into the field of genetics, but to do what, I wasn't sure.

Seeing my fascination for genetics, my biology professor suggested genetic counseling to me as a potential career path, when I was in Grade 11. My eyes popped again. I was so surprised to know that this field existed because the combination of genetics and patient care existed only in my subconscious mind. I wanted to learn more about this field before I could make the decision to become a genetic counselor.

I was skeptical, because this was not very known at that time, which was almost 13 years ago. My parents were scratching their heads, and with a facial expression of 'what is this girl talking about?' As a teenager, that response should have irked me but it amused me, because during that conversation because I got the chance to explain to them what it is about in small bits of information, and I felt the flutter in my chest (with excitement) which I still feel when I talk to anyone about my career or explain to patients about exactly their genetic counseling session means for them.

When I came across this verse in the Quran in Surah AlMaidah (Chapter 5), verse 32, I wanted to carry a part of this with me everywhere, both in my personal and professional life. My seed of passion for genetic counseling was hence sealed.

"Saves" here does not only mean literally saving a person but it actually has a lot of deeper meanings to it. While this verse is often associated with physical survival, such as preventing death through medical aid or rescuing someone from danger, its meaning extends beyond the physical realm to include emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being.

How does genetic counseling fit in this narrative: My personal reflection:

Preventing Disease & Promoting Health

Identifying genetic risks for hereditary conditions.

Educating families on how to manage or prevent disorders.

Recommending medical interventions, such as screenings, specialist referrals based on body systems involvement, lifestyle changes, or treatments, to improve patient outcomes. this is in alignment with preserving life through knowledge and precaution.

Protecting Patients from Harm: Advocacy

Injustice in healthcare can manifest in many ways, including misinformation, discrimination, and lack of access to care. Genetic counselors serve as advocates, ensuring that patients, especially those from marginalized or underserved communities, receive the care and support they need.

This is a form of saving a life, as it prevents the family from suffering due to neglect, ignorance, or systemic barriers.

Informed Decision-Making and Principles of Biomedical Ethics

Saving a life also includes preserving emotional and psychological well-being. Patients often experience fear, confusion, or distress when faced with genetic conditions. A genetic counselor provides support, guidance, and reassurance, helping families make ethical, informed choices about their health.

Preventing Emotional & Psychological Distress

Genetic conditions are not just physical challenges—they carry significant emotional and psychological burdens. Fear of the unknown, guilt over passing on a genetic condition, or anxiety about medical decisions can severely impact mental health.

Community Education & Awareness

Prevention is always better than cure. By educating communities about genetic risks, and screening options, genetic counselors reduce the prevalence of genetic diseases in society.

"Indeed, the best among you are those who benefit mankind." (Hadith - a saying by Prophet Muhammed PBUH)

Spreading knowledge that can save lives and benefit people is among the greatest acts of service.

By raising awareness and encouraging preventative health, genetic counselors reduce suffering and improve public health outcomes for future generations.

The Quranic vision of saving lives is not limited to doctors and emergency responders, it extends to every profession that preserves human dignity and prevents suffering.

According to me, genetic counseling is a life-saving and life-giving profession that aligns with the my highest ethical and spiritual values. I know as a genetic counselor, I am fulfilling the words of the Quran, which is saving lives in ways that go beyond the physical, touching the hearts, minds, and futures of families (something that I am so proud about) coupled with my admiration of genetics and the magnificient beauty of the One who created our blue print - genes.