NAME: DR Leanne Eveson
ROLE: CaRDIOLOGY REGISTRAR, AEROMED PHYSICIAN
FAVOURITE AIRCRAFT: BOEING CH-47 CHINOOK
What is your role in aerospace medicine?
I am a cardiology registrar and a member of the Physician Augmented Strategic Aeromedical Evacuation (PASA) team which provides Defence’s aeromedical evacuation capability.
How Did You First Get Interested in This Field?
Space has fascinated me from an early age. As a member of the University Air Squadron (UAS) I thoroughly enjoyed learning to fly the Grob Tutor which sparked an interest in aviation. As a Foundation Year 2 doctor I was part of a high-altitude medical research expedition in the Himalayas which was an incredible experience and interesting to personally experience the effects of high altitude on the body. This furthered my interest in the field of aerospace medicine.
HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED?
It was on the UAS that I first learned about careers in aerospace medicine. I applied to join the Royal Air Force as a Medical Officer which has provided so many great opportunities and led me to where I am today.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE TO TEN YEARS?
Hopefully I will have completed my cardiology training and an aerospace medicine related higher degree. Most importantly I hope to be enjoying family life with my husband and daughters.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO THOSE WHO WANT TO FOLLOW IN YOUR FOOTSTEPS?
No matter what your background, if you have determination and are willing to work hard you can achieve anything. Make the most of your opportunities. Don’t be afraid to have big dreams.
What IS ONE OF YOUR FAVOURITE MOMENTS IN AEROSPACE MEDICINE SO FAR?
A flight in the Aviation Medicine Hawk. It was an incredible experience to appreciate the physiological changes when exposed to G-force and altitude.