After the birth of her first daughter, Dr Perez-Torres felt a strong desire to understand more about the world around her, which reignited her interest in medicine. She was accepted into an undergraduate medical program in Spain, starting her medical degree in her late twenties. Her journey was far from conventional, but it was driven by a deep-seated passion for knowledge and a desire to make a difference.
Returning to Melbourne after completing her medical degree in Spain, Dr Perez-Torres faced significant challenges as an International Medical Graduate (IMG). Despite being an Australian citizen, the process of securing an internship was fraught with obstacles. "I wasn't even eligible to apply for internship positions in Victoria," she recalls. This led her to door-knocking at various hospitals and medical workforce units, a testament to her determination and resilience.
Her efforts eventually paid off, securing an internship in Canberra. However, this required her to commute weekly between Canberra and Melbourne, where her family was based. "It was very, very tough at the time," she admits, but the conscious decision to endure this hardship for a limited period helped her and her family cope with the separation.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Dr Perez-Torres's story is her ability to integrate her medical career with her passion for music. Music has always been an integral part of her life. "There's not a day that goes by that I don't do something music-related," she says. This passion for music provided her with a unique outlet and a source of emotional resilience.
Choosing general practice allowed her the flexibility to pursue both her medical career and her musical interests. "I think more than flexibility, it's about having choices," she explains. This autonomy has enabled her to balance her professional and personal life effectively, making space for her passion for music alongside her commitment to medicine.
Dr Perez-Torres's dual pursuits in medicine and music have given her a unique perspective on the therapeutic power of music. She believes that music can play a significant role in enhancing emotional well-being, both for patients and healthcare professionals. "If I'm stressed, I'll sit down at the piano and just play piano scales because I find them very soothing and calming," she shares.
Her experiences highlight the potential for integrating creative pursuits into medical practice, providing a holistic approach to healthcare. The emotional resilience gained from her musical endeavours has undoubtedly contributed to her effectiveness and empathy as a general practitioner.
Dr Perez-Torres's journey serves as an inspiring example for other medical professionals. Her story underscores the importance of pursuing passions outside of the medical field, promoting a balanced and fulfilling life. "I think anybody who's going into medicine should have something else in their life, whether that be music or sport or some sort of activity that is non-medicine based," she advises.
Her ability to maintain her musical interests alongside a demanding medical career is a testament to her dedication and time management skills. It also serves as a reminder that pursuing personal passions can enhance professional performance and overall well-being.
Looking ahead, Dr Perez-Torres continues to strive for growth in both her medical and musical careers. She is currently working on recording and releasing her music, aiming to share more of her original work with a broader audience. "I'm hoping to release some music later on this year," she reveals, showcasing her commitment to her musical journey.
In the realm of medicine, she remains dedicated to her role as a general practitioner, continually seeking ways to improve her practice and patient care. Her story is a powerful reminder that with passion, resilience, and a clear sense of purpose, it is possible to integrate diverse interests and lead a fulfilling, balanced life.