129 | Triathlete and Family Physician Alex McDonald: Advocating for Yourself as an Athlete

The Injured Athletes Club

“Injury was horrible and I wouldn't wish it on anyone, but I think again, that shaped me and that helped me become a better physician today because of those experiences. I wouldn't trade that experience for anything. It's part of who I am and has made me who I am today.”

Alex McDonald was in medical school when he tried a triathlon with a friend, just for fun. But he quickly excelled at the sport, and eventually decided to take a break between medical school and his residency to pursue it at a high level.

He had some success, but heading into his final season, he went out on a training ride that changed everything. He was hit by a truck, a dramatic collision that left him with shattered bones in his legs and an avulsion injury in his IT band. With patience and his family’s support, he worked his way back to walking, swimming, and eventually running (and—in the long run—to marathons).

The experience threw him firsthand into the life of a patient and shaped his path as a physician. He already knew he wanted to practice sports medicine and family medicine. Still, he emerged more determined than ever to treat each patient with respect and dignity, aiming to support them in achieving all their personal and athletic goals.

This episode is more than a dramatic and inspiring recovery story—Dr. McDonald also shares his key pieces of advice for navigating the medical system, advocating for yourself, and collaborating with your medical team so you can get back to the sport you love.

Resources/links:

• Alex’s Instagram

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DISCLAIMER: This content is for educational & informational use only and & does not constitute medical advice. Do not disregard, avoid or delay obtaining medical or health related advice from your health-care professional because of something you may have heard in an episode of this podcast. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult with a qualified medical professional for proper evaluation & treatment. Guests who speak on this podcast express their own opinions, experiences, and conclusions, and The Injured Athletes Club podcast hosts nor any company providing financial support endorses or opposes any particular treatment option discussed in the episodes of this podcast and are not responsible for any actions or inactions of listeners based on the information presented. The use of any information provided is solely at your own risk.