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Dr. Hilary Hill loves his job. Being a Physical Therapist allows him to treat people in a way that is often less painful and intrusive than surgery. However, days when he is called the “N word” by patients or when he experiences overt racism, can be discouraging. But, through the good moments and the unpleasant moments, Dr. Hill continues to do what he loves because physical therapy gives him the ultimate job satisfaction. This is what the former Diamond Vale, Diego Martin resident told MENtions:

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I grew up with my parents and two brothers in a happy home. I was the youngest or the “baby” as my mother used to call me back then (and still up to this day sometimes). My father was strict and my mother was more laid-back. I believe that balance helped me to remain focused on my education. Their love, emotional support and encouragement continued throughout my journey.

My mother is a registered nurse and during school vacations I would go to work with her. It’s there that I developed my love for healthcare. When I observed the careful and patient manner that she (and others) treated patients, I realised that I wanted to work in this field. So, I decided that I wanted to become a medical doctor because other than nursing, I didn’t know of other careers in the medical field at the time. I also didn’t think that men could be nurses. I guess in hindsight, I should have asked my mother for clarification.

My career path and dream changed in my teens when I visited my eldest brother who was doing his medical residency at Howard University Hospital. It was 2am. We were watching a movie and my brother’s pager went off. He quickly got up, rushed to get ready and drove to the hospital. At that specific moment, I knew that I did not want that lifestyle for myself. I wanted my workday to start and end at specific times so that when I got home, I can devote time to my personal development and family time.

During that vacation, I  met one of my brother’s friends, who was a Physical Therapist. I interrogated him like a reporter because I wanted to know everything about physical therapy. He answered all my questions; providing vivid images of the positives and negatives. After our detailed conversations, I knew that I wanted to be a Physical Therapist.

I’ve had many great experiences during my career. One specific situation that comes to mind is a patient who tore the Anterior Cruciate Ligaments (ACL) in both of his knees. The injury was not life-threatening but according to his Orthopaedic Surgeon, he needed surgery.  The surgeon sent him for physical therapy to strengthen his muscles in order to facilitate his recovery after surgery. After a few weeks of therapy, the guy no longer had any pain or swelling and he cancelled the surgery. Sometime after, I went to a party with my wife and that same guy was there dancing and having a great time. He introduced himself to my wife and told her that I “helped him to walk again.” Those moments fill me with great joy and make me realise that I am meant to do what I am doing.

My biggest challenge as a Physical Therapist thus far, has been my encounter with racism. A patient with whom I always thought I had an excellent rapport, called me the “N” word. He was very loud and quite vocal. My colleagues and other patients heard. I just walked away and the patient was no longer on my schedule. Thankfully, the many successes and positive experiences outweigh the unfortunate ones like these.

My journey has been possible through the guidance and support of my family. While I was in school, they ensured that I completed my assignments and when it was time to select jobs, my family (including my wife) helped me to choose the jobs, which were best suited to me, my lifestyle and personality.

While I may not have had a specific mentor growing up, I looked up to my mother, my father and my two brothers. I also admired certain qualities in black celebrities and athletes. I took snippets from their personalities and customized it to chart my own course.

To those starting out, it is important to research different careers and try to interview or even shadow individuals who are actively working in those careers. That helps to provide you with ‘real life’ experiences and clarify any doubts.

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Dr. Hill attended Queen’s Royal College, where he was an avid sportsman. After secondary school, he went to the US to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences at Howard University then a Master’s degree in Physical Therapy. In 2018, he became a Doctor of Physical Therapy. He lives in the US with his wife and two young kings.