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Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with Leon Morales-Quezada, MD, MSc, PhD, MPH

4 minute read

Q&A with Leon Morales-Quezada, MD, MSc, PhD, MPH

Leon Morales-Quezada, MD, MSc, PhD, MPH

Each year, Hispanic Heritage Month is observed throughout the United States from September 15 to October 15, celebrating the history, culture, and uniqueness of those of Hispanic descent.

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re honored to highlight the voices, culture and cutting-edge work of researchers from Mass General Brigham with Hispanic roots.

Up next, we are happy to introduce Dr. Leon Morales-Quezada from Spaulding Rehab, a physician-investigator from Mexico.

While working in the intensive care environment, Dr. Morales-Quezada realized that most patients would survive their medical conditions, but with poor quality of life. For this reason, he decided to learn more about neurological rehabilitation and neuroplasticity, which led him to the U.S.

His research focuses on noninvasive neuromodulation to assist with neurological and cognitive rehabilitation, the role of placebos in pain control, and phenotyping the placebo effect.

Q: How has your cultural background influenced your professional journey?

My cultural background significantly influenced my professional development, particularly in my values and beliefs towards work ethic, education, and training. Resilience, perseverance, and empathy were always essential for me. These characteristics are common among people in Mexico.

Q: What’s your favorite cultural dish, and what memories does it bring back?

It is not a dish, but rather the ritual of lunch time!

Lunch is the most important meal of the day in Mexico. Although it occurs later in the afternoon (between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.), it usually consists of four courses plus dessert, often a fresh fruit.

Its importance stems from the tradition of the whole family gathering. So, every time I have lunch, even during the so-called “American time,” I remember sitting at the table with my brother and parents, enjoying whatever mom cooked for us.

Q: How has your cultural background shaped your approach to your research/work?

When working in clinical research, individuals with medical conditions generously offer their time to participate in research trials. I respect them for their altruism and commitment to helping others through their participation.

Because of this — and due to my training — I always ensure our research participants know we are grateful for their role in advancing medical science and create a welcoming environment for them in the research lab.

Q: How do you stay connected to your roots, whether it’s through language, traditions, or community involvement?

At home I speak in Spanish to my children, and we try to visit our family at least once per year.

Here in Boston, we always attend “Dia de los Muertos” at Harvard Peabody Museum, it is a lot of fun and my kids love it — it became a family tradition for us!

Q: Can you share a cherished tradition or custom from your heritage that has special significance to you?

Navidad (Christmas)!

This time of the year is very important for me because represents being with family, the significance of being together enjoying each other during the festivities is a soul recharging experience that fulfills and provides the necessary energy for the upcoming year.