In a world where science and faith are often seen as opposing, there are those whose lives serve as bridges. Mason resident Dr. Marsha Smith, MD, FAAN, is one such individual. As a neurologist who completed a fellowship at Emory and a residency at Harvard, her journey intertwines the complexities of science with the strength of her faith. Marsha's new book God of the Impossible details how her faith fortified her path to becoming a neurologist while battling chronic illness.
What drew you to your faith?
I grew up witnessing my grandmother and mother live exemplary Christian lives. We were at church every Sunday and often went midweek. They trusted God in good times but also through trials. My faith grew and was tested after I was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Tell me about your journey with chronic illness.
The summer before my second year of medical school at Temple University, I saw a dermatologist for a rash. While waiting on biopsy results, I saw an internist who said I probably got the rash because I was learning about illnesses. She did not order tests.
The dermatologist told me I had an autoimmune disease and my connective tissue was breaking down. She referred me to a rheumatologist who simply gave me ibuprofen.
Eventually, I had to be admitted to a hospital for a week. That’s when I was diagnosed with SLE. The doctors told me to quit medical school, but I chose to stay.
What challenges did you face during medical school?
Medical school and residency were difficult. I was placed on steroids and periodically had to take IV steroids to walk or breathe well. I was treated with chemotherapy-like medications for prolonged periods and developed inflammation around my lungs and heart. My colon ruptured and I had to wear a colostomy bag for months. I thought things were getting better but then was diagnosed with kidney inflammation. The most frequent cause of disability in patients with SLE is kidney failure. Thankfully with medication, my kidneys recovered. I had great prayer warriors and doctors throughout this journey and a God who continues to do the impossible.
Why did you decide to write a book?
My Aunt Aundrea told me for years that I should write a book. Once I accepted the calling and knew that I had a story to tell I was truly inspired! The Holy Spirit was an inspiration and a driving force.
How do you reconcile your faith with your profession?
My study of the brain has solidified for me that God made each of us uniquely. The human body is so intricately made that even now science cannot fully understand all of its workings.
I see my career as one orchestrated by God before I was born. Helping, healing and allowing others to live healthier and longer lives is not against what God stands for.
How can people interact with your book in additional ways?
There is an audiobook and guided journal as well! In the journal, there are questions to help the reader delve deeper into the ideas of the book with spaces to write answers and encouraging scriptures and prayers.
The book, journal and audiobook are all available at the following link as well as many book retailers: ExceedinglyAbundantLLC.TextRetailer.com/qc/yi5iq0WS1C
"I had great prayer warriors and doctors throughout this journey and a God who continues to do the impossible."
