A Mermaid in Italy
“Italy is the country of love, pasta, and wine. It’s full of beauty, history, and art” says Dr. Simonetta Morselli. We had a conversation with Dr. Morselli about living in Italy and being an ophthalmologist.
Could you give us some information about your academic background, please?
I graduated from the University of Verona as a General Medical Doctor in 1991 and as an Ophthalmologist in 1995. I worked at the University Hospital of Verona for 10 years, was dedicated to anterior segment surgery specializing in cataracts, refractive, and the cornea. At the end of 2008, I was promoted to be the Chief of the Ophthalmic Department in Bassano, Italy, and today, I perform all types of operations including refractive, corneal, cataract, vitreoretinal, and squint surgeries. I have been a member of the ESCRS board since 2010 and the AICCER Board since 2008.
How about your daily life?
I usually wake up at 6 AM, and I start working from 7.30 until 2–3 PM in the hospital, and then, I have my private practice in Bassano, Vicenza or Mestre where I perform refractive surgery until 8 PM. I’m married but we haven’t got any children, so I spend most of the day working and replying to emails until late at night.
What are your hobbies?
I have a lot of hobbies: during weekends and holidays, I love cooking and doing all sorts of water and winter sports, such as swimming, water skiing, sailing, boating, windsurfing, skiing, and ice skating. I also love playing the piano, especially in the evenings, which helps me to relax after a long day at work.
What are the most interesting features of your country? Can you tell us about the cultural aspects of Italy?
Italy is the country of love, pasta, and wine. It’s full of beauty, history, and art. There are many places to visit; for example, Rome is a very well-known city all around the world, and Venice is quite unique with its charm and mystery. I can also mention my hometown Vicenza. It’s so beautiful with its old and famous buildings, such as the great architect Palladio’s Teatro Olimpico. Moreover, if you want to eat the most delicious spaghetti and pizza with their original taste, you must certainly go to Naples! I think Italy is one of the best countries in the world, and I’m very happy to live in this country.
Could you share with us the recipe of your favorite food?
As I have already told you, I love cooking. In 2012, I was invited to an Italian food channel, Gambero Rosso Channels, to perform a live cooking – not live surgery this time! And it was much more stressful! I made scallops soup with Verona celeriac. But I prefer keeping the recipe to myself! I also enjoy baking cakes, especially the Sacher torte.
What do you think about the ophthalmology Industry? How would you evaluate the industry in Italy compared to other countries?
I think the ophthalmology industry provides Italian ophthalmologists with opportunities to continue research and study new devices, drugs, and techniques. This is supposed to be provided by universities. However, unfortunately, universities in Italy do not offer these opportunities.
“Italy is the country of love, pasta and wine. It’s full of beauty, history and art” says Dr. Simonetta Morselli.
