A resident doctor in Critical Care at Aintree University Hospital has won a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Dr Sylvia Misztal, 27, represented England in cycling whilst on rotation at the hospital, securing a podium finish despite having just five weeks to prepare with her teammate before the Games.
Sylvia admitted she never expected to reach the Commonwealth Games after previously considering stepping away from competitive cycling, but credits her career in medicine with helping her develop resilience and manage pressure.
Sylvia said: “Medicine has probably been very useful for my sporting career as it has taught me how to manage stress, trust the process and keep a level head.
“Being happy at work made training a lot easier, and the support from the colleagues I told really spurred me on.”
Returning to the unit at Aintree after winning bronze, Sylvia was greeted with a round of applause from colleagues, who were eager to celebrate her remarkable achievement and see her medal.
Sylvia added: “I’m hoping my achievement will encourage my colleagues and patients to take up or continue sport.
“You don’t have to compete at an elite level to experience the benefits. Whether it’s cycling, running or simply getting out for a walk, being active can make a real difference to your physical and mental health.”
Sylvia has since moved on a new rotation into a Trauma and Orthopaedics role in London and is now targeting selection for the World Championships later this year.