Bridging Technology and Oncology: Dr. Fahima Osman’s Approach to Breast Cancer Care
Dr. Fahima Osman’s path to medicine began long before she donned a white coat. It was set in motion by a family story that left an indelible mark on her childhood. Born in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Dr. Osman’s family faced a turning point when her father lost his job. Originally from Somaliland, her parents couldn’t return there due to the ongoing conflict, so they sought refuge in Canada. As the eldest of nine siblings, she saw firsthand the challenges her parents faced in building a new life, fueled by a desire to give their children opportunities they hadn’t had.
Central to her journey was a story often shared within her family: her father’s life had been saved by a Polish surgeon visiting Somalia during a time of crisis. This act of compassion and dedication from a stranger sparked Dr. Osman’s commitment to medicine, inspiring her to one day provide the same level of care and hope to others.
Dr. Osman’s academic journey began at York University, where she immersed herself in the sciences. She then attended McMaster University’s Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, where she earned her medical degree and gained a deep appreciation for the impact of compassionate care on patients and families.
After medical school, Dr. Osman went to the University of Toronto for a rigorous residency in general surgery, refining her technical skills and clinical expertise. Her dedication to women’s health led her to complete a fellowship in breast surgical oncology at the University of Toronto, where she developed the specialized knowledge she brings to her practice. Today, Dr. Osman fulfills this vision as a breast surgical oncologist at North York General Hospital, serving each patient with the empathy and skill that first inspired her dream.
When asked about what led her to specialize in breast surgical oncology, Dr. Osman explains how her exposure to breast disease during her surgical residency sparked a deep interest in the field. "I remember when I was a surgical resident, we got some exposure to breast disease," she explains. "But when I was preparing for my fellowship exam in general surgery, I realized how incredible and fast-evolving this specialty is.” She found breast cancer uniquely compelling due to its complexity, the rapid advancements in treatment, and, importantly, the hope it offers. “With this disease, there’s so much hope. There’s always new research, and you’re constantly learning. It’s intense, but it’s a field where people can live long lives.”
Her desire to bridge the gap between medical treatment and emotional support for patients is evident in her approach. For Dr. Osman, being a cancer surgeon means embracing a role that extends beyond medicine. "It's not just about treating a person; it's about understanding how cancer impacts their life, their families, and their livelihoods," she says. This perspective motivated her to create a digital platform called MyJourney. Designed to support patients from diagnosis through survivorship, the app offers personalized information and guidance. "I wanted something that could act as a trusted companion for patients," she explains. "So many people feel lost at the start of their diagnosis. With MyJourney, they have information that speaks directly to their situation."
In addition to supporting patients, Dr. Osman believes that the MyJourney platform has the potential to improve the overall quality of care in the field. "This isn’t just helping patients; it’s about creating a tool that enables healthcare providers to deliver better care," she explains. By collecting data on patient outcomes through hospital EMR integration, the app provides valuable insights into treatment efficacy and disease progression. Dr. Osman hopes to eventually expand MyJourney beyond NYGH, sharing its benefits with the broader community. "Cancer care shouldn’t start with a diagnosis. Ideally, MyJourney will one day help people prevent the disease altogether," she shares, expressing her vision for future expansion into public awareness and preventative education.
Dr. Osman maintains a sense of balance by prioritizing both self-care and a strong support system. Juggling her roles as a surgeon, professor, entrepreneur, wife, and mother is no small feat, but she attributes her success to the invaluable help of her family, husband, and nanny. Over time, she has come to appreciate the importance of caring for herself, making space for exercise, family outings, and travel to unwind and recharge. Beyond her personal pursuits, Dr. Osman also dedicates time to community service, especially internationally, where she helps expand access to quality healthcare. For her, this work brings joy and meaning, and she feels grateful to contribute in ways that align with her passion for healing and giving back.
Looking ahead, Dr. Osman envisions a future where her work can continue to empower women to prioritize their health and embrace the strength within themselves. Her advice to women is clear: take the time for that one crucial screening or health check, no matter how busy life becomes. In her view, staying proactive in health is a powerful act of self-care that benefits not only the individual but also their loved ones. Driven by the memory of the compassion that saved her father’s life, Dr. Osman remains committed to bridging gaps in healthcare with empathy and innovation, hoping to bring the same sense of hope and healing to others that first inspired her journey into medicine.