
Precision and Presence:
My Path in Child Neurology
Karina Terese DJ. Santos (UP-PGH Pediatric Neurology 2024)
I was drawn to child neurology by my fascination with the developing brain. Fueled by resilience, I completed the training that was often physically and mentally exhausting, filled with uncertainty, and life-changing decisions. Still, with support from my consultants and lessons from my patients, I’ve learned that responsibility gives this work real meaning. I started out studying the notoriously meticulous pathways of the nervous system, but I’ve become an advocate for each child’s overall potential. The patients themselves give me courage and keep me motivated.
A big part of my growth has come from working with palliative care. In neurology, we often see conditions that cannot be cured. I’ve learned that when treatment is no longer possible, our job shifts. We help families face difficult news and try to ease the suffering of patients and their loved ones. Moving from trying to fix things to simply being present for others has shown me that giving clarity and comfort is its own kind of healing, even when recovery isn’t possible.
Looking ahead, I am hopeful that precision medicine will offer our patients hope. My professional goal is to bridge the gap between complex diagnoses and the caring support families need. Training is overwhelmingly demanding, and the work requires attention to detail, but the opportunity to protect a child’s quality of life is rare and deeply rewarding. This career takes both knowledge and compassion, and it gives me a sense of purpose that keeps me going and inspires hope.


