Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Mastrangelo.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Ashley. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
It wasn’t how I planned my first real surgical experience to begin. As black stars clouded my field of vision, the only thought that ran through my mind was, “fall back,” because if I fell forward, I would de-sterilize an entire surgical field and drag two surgeons down with me. As I took one large step back I was greeted by a gloriously cold brick wall that jolted me back to reality.
Minutes later, I found myself de-gowned and eating anything within reach to eliminate the knot in my stomach. The nausea was caused by a combination of participating in my first surgery and the embarrassment of having to re-enter the operating room and face two surgeons in their place of business. At that moment, two thoughts ran through my mind: one, I could run (which seemed viable after the first cookie); and two, take a deep breath, wipe the sweat from my face and walk back into the room.
After many deep breaths, I walked back in and was greeted with an unforgettable question, “Ready for round two?” Without hesitation, I replied, “Absolutely.” Two surgical gowns, 3 cookies and 2 hours later I made it through an entire surgery and was ready for another. Having developed an early love for sports, I played basketball at the Governors Academy in Byfield and then pursued it as a collegiate athlete at Wesleyan University It gave me a first-hand account of the devastating effects lower extremity injuries can have on the quality of life.
After suffering numerous sprained ankles, my injuries led me to a podiatrist who not only fixed my ankle but also created a rehabilitation plan that was able to heal my body as a whole. After being immobile for quite some time, and then being given the gift of walking was something that changed my life and made me want to pass on to others. My journey led me to acquire a Masters Degree at Northeastern University in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Toxicology.
While earning my Masters, I was fortunate enough to join a research group at Children’s Hospital Boston where I worked with an incredibly talented and forward-thinking female orthopedic surgeon who inspired me to be a surgeon and chase after that dream. I went on to attend Temple University where I was President of the American Association of Women Podiatrists.
One of the most significant projects we had was working with Dress for Success in Philadelphia donating shoes and clothing for women re-entering the workforce who were unable to afford appropriate clothing. It is an incredible organization that has helped millions of women across the country and I was fortunate enough to be a small part of giving back. I then attended Brown University for my surgical residency in Rhode Island.
Has it been a smooth road?
Being the daughter of Italian immigrants has provided me with a desire to achieve the highest level of education that I can. My parents never had the opportunity to attend college and promised both my brother and myself that as long as we wanted to pursue the higher education they would always support us. After every diploma I received, I felt like I shared it whole-heartedly with my parents, which is why I was so happy to return to the North Shore to practice and have them continue to be a part of my journey.
Being a female in a primarily male-dominated field is never easy, no matter the field you are in. During my training, my commitment and intellect were constantly questioned due to my gender. Comments were made regarding my height and weight in a derogatory fashion to make those around me feel superior and powerful. I was not given the same consideration as my fellow colleagues no matter how I triumphed, which became cruel when I failed.
Over time, with the support of friends and colleagues, I refused to allow myself to be treated in a way that was no longer positive or beneficial to me. Moving forward, I always make myself available to those having difficulty advocating for themselves in any type of adversity. It is important to maintain confidence in yourself no matter how hard or what the obstacle is in life because if you don’t, who will?
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Coastal Orthopedics – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
As one of the longest established orthopedic practices in the North Shore area, the awarded experts at Coastal Orthopedics are leaders in orthopedic care for bone, joint and muscle injuries and conditions of the body. Established in 1973, with the goal of helping patients overcome pain and injury and return to their active lifestyles, Coastal Orthopedics has successfully treated more than 250,000 patients.
Included on staff are five board-certified orthopedic surgeons, a podiatrist, two physicians assistants and numerous supporting staff members all dedicated to providing best-in-class care. I attended Brown University for my surgical residency where I had comprehensive training in both foot and ankle reconstruction. I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of foot and ankle conditions, ranging from routine to complex.
My goal is to provide superior foot and ankle care to patients of all ages, believing that prompt diagnosis with early intervention and prevention are key. I provide a full range of podiatric medical care including both conservative and surgical therapies. Surgical treatments include elective surgical procedures like bunions and hammertoes, foot and ankle fracture repair, reconstructive foot and ankle surgery, sports medicine and diabetic limb salvage.
A large part of my training involved total ankle replacement and am certified in Scandinavian Total Ankle Replacement. The best part about being a Podiatrist is the diversity I see in patients. On any given day I can see a two-year-old with an ingrown toenail followed by an adult ankle fracture. It makes my days not only challenging but fun as well.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I may be biased, but as a Marblehead native – you can’t beat the North Shore! Start the day at Devereaux Beach stand up paddle boarding and get some sun. Once the noon rush hits, head into Salem and walk around a bit and spend some time getting balanced with a palm reading. After lunch on the water, head to Gloucester for oysters and watch the waves! But on a serious note, the North Shore isn’t too far from the city and definitely offers a laid back, casual atmosphere where you can pretty much do anything your heart desires. I have lived here my whole life and still find new things to do every weekend.
Contact Info:
- Address: 77 Herrick Street Suite 201 Beverly, Massachusetts
- Website: www.coastal-ortho.com
- Phone: 978-927-3040
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coastalorthopedic/?rf=221440681202690
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=coastal+orthopedics+&find_loc=Beverly%2C+MA&ns=1
Getting in touch: BostonVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
