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Alumni

Alumni Spotlights

Melissa Yadao ’88

Sports Medicine- Medstar Georgetown Orthopaedic Institute

Why did you choose to practice orthopedic surgery and sports medicine?

Orthopedics and sports medicine naturally combines two of my favorite things—sports and medicine. My interest started in high school as I seemed to always get injured. An elbow dislocation in eighth grade sidelined me for a while and then lingering knee problems followed me into college. I wanted to know how to fix my injuries so no one could tell me I had to stop playing. I admit I was drawn to the challenge of orthopedics being so male-dominated. Orthopedics is a very rewarding and satisfying field, seeing patients get back out there doing their sport/activity. I spend a lot of time educating my patients so they can stay healthy, active, and hopefully injury-free.

What has been the most difficult injury that you have treated?

In sports medicine, one of the most challenging injuries was a big lineman football player who sustained a severe injury to ligaments in his knee that also injured a major nerve to his lower leg. However, I would say some of the most difficult injuries to treat are the overuse injuries where the athlete does not want to stop. These do not always need surgery but can take months to heal and involve a lot of education, patience, and support.

What do you love most about being a part of the SSSAS community?

This is a great question—I always felt my time at St. Agnes was so special and was incredibly thankful for the experiences and opportunities I had. As time has gone by, I love reconnecting with my classmates, coaches, and teachers. I am both amazed and so proud of what amazing women we have become and truly cherish the times we get together.

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