Facing the FTP Decision - A Turning Point in My Journey
As I sit down to write this blog post, the weight of the recent Fitness to Practise (FTP) hearing still resonates deeply within me. On June 25th, 2024, I received the devastating news of my expulsion from the University of Central Lancashire's dental program - a decision that feels both final and fundamentally unjust. The hearing was a culmination of months of investigation, reflecting on my past actions and my journey of personal and professional rehabilitation. While the panel acknowledged my efforts at rehabilitation, they ultimately decided that the risks were too great to allow me to continue my studies. This moment could have been a point of complete despair. Instead, I choose to see it as another challenge in my ongoing journey of growth, accountability, and redemption. The panel's primary concerns centred on my failure to disclose the GMC hearing and my suspended prison sentence when initially applying to the university. While I maintain that I had a clear plan to disclose this information in person during my September 2023 return, the university viewed this as a significant breach of trust. What strikes me most is the disconnect between my genuine efforts at rehabilitation and the university's interpretation of my actions. Since the GMC hearing in June 2023, I have been committed to: Engaging in extensive mentorship and life coaching Completing multiple ethics and professional development courses Maintaining transparent documentation of my journey Practicing medicine abroad under supervised conditions Undertaking mental health support and therapy Publishing academic work reflecting on professional ethics My life coach and mentor have been instrumental in this journey. They have witnessed my commitment to transparency, ethical practice, and personal growth. The documentation of our sessions clearly shows my intention to disclose my past and demonstrate my fitness to practice. The appeal process has been emotionally challenging. I will appeal that decision by the university. I am not naive. I understand the gravity of my past actions. The road accident insurance claim was a moment of profound weakness, born from a complex web of personal trauma, grief, and misguided judgment. But I refuse to be defined solely by my lowest moment. My commitment now is twofold: 1. To continue my appeal to the university, presenting a comprehensive picture of my rehabilitation
- To maintain my professional development and ethical growth, regardless of the outcome To my fellow healthcare professionals, to students facing challenges, and to anyone who has ever made a mistake: our past does not have to dictate our future. Redemption is a journey of consistent, genuine effort. As I prepare the next steps of my appeal, I remain hopeful. Not because I expect an easy path, but because I am committed to demonstrating that people can learn, grow, and transform. This is not the end of my journey. This is another challenging chapter in a story of resilience, accountability, and unwavering determination. With hope and determination,
Mohammad