Diala Steitieh, a cardiologist practicing in New York, has released her debut poetry collection, a culmination of a creative journey sparked after years dedicated to the rigorous demands of medical practice. The book, completed in November 2025, represents a significant shift for Steitieh, who spent her formative years in Doha, Qatar, and initially focused on a career defined by scientific precision. Her work explores themes of self-discovery, emotional honesty, and the integration of seemingly disparate worlds.
From Cardiology to Creative Expression: A New Voice in Poetry
Steitieh’s path to poetry began as a search for balance after a career deeply rooted in academia and medicine. Having graduated from Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, she embraced the structure and discipline inherent in her profession. However, she found herself increasingly drawn to outlets that allowed for a different kind of expression, one less constrained by protocol and more focused on personal feeling.
She initially experimented with painting and long-distance running, even completing a marathon. These pursuits, while fulfilling, didn’t quite capture the emotional resonance she sought. It was through writing poems that Steitieh discovered a unique ability to process her experiences and connect with a deeper sense of self.
Finding an Artistic Outlet
What started as private journaling evolved into a consistent practice, providing a space for vulnerability and reflection. Her first public reading in April 2025 marked a turning point, transforming personal verses into a shared experience with an audience. This positive reception further encouraged her to refine and compile her work into a cohesive collection.
The collection’s introduction reveals Steitieh’s humble approach to her newfound artistic identity. She doesn’t definitively claim the title of “poet,” but rather frames her work as an exploration and an invitation to others. She expresses a desire to rekindle a creative spark that she feared had been lost amidst professional responsibilities.
The poems themselves are described as an encouragement to reconnect with neglected passions and pursue joy, even in small ways. This theme resonates with many who find themselves balancing demanding careers with personal aspirations, a common struggle in modern life. The work touches on themes of self-care and finding meaning beyond professional achievement.
Steitieh’s journey highlights the increasing recognition of the importance of arts and humanities in fostering well-being, even within traditionally STEM-focused fields. Many professionals are now actively seeking creative outlets to manage stress and enhance their overall quality of life, a trend supported by research in mindfulness and emotional intelligence.
Her work isn’t presented as a departure from her medical career, but rather as an integration of her scientific and artistic sides. This blending of disciplines suggests a holistic approach to life and a belief that different forms of knowledge and expression can complement each other. The discipline honed in medicine appears to have informed the careful crafting of her verses.
The release of Steitieh’s collection is a testament to the enduring power of creativity and the possibility of rediscovering passions at any stage of life. It serves as a reminder that artistic expression isn’t limited to those with formal training, but is accessible to anyone willing to explore their inner world.
Currently, details regarding book tours or further publications are unavailable. Observers will be watching to see how Steitieh balances her continued medical practice with her emerging career as a poet, and whether she plans to expand her creative work in the future.