The daughter of a bank manager, Jeanne grew up traveling and living in different cities in the Philippines. When it was time for her to go to a university, she chose to get her medicine degree at La Salle, Cavite. It is easy to find her in her clinic at Makati Medical Hospital’s industrial health center.
Taking a respite from work, Jeanne talks about badminton and being named after Joan of Arc.
What is it about your occupation that you love?
Having people understand what they have. I am a frustrated teacher and I like explaining what people have. It is important that they know and I believe it helps.
Which living person do you admire most?
The Pope because he is a Catholic who inspires people to do good. The fact that he is sick and still goes to work…
Who or what is the greatest love of your life?
Wow! Orthopedics, since I have dedicated 11 years of my life to it. I work every day including Saturdays.
How do you resolve your conflicts?
Take a deep breath, step back and figure out if I was at fault.
What sports do you like most?
Badminton in Power Smash
Where are you most comfortable?
Off the bat, I would say at the beach. Then, in the operating room because that is where I am in charge.
What is your greatest fear?
To lose my hands.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
I always want to be in control.
What is your current state of mind?
I’m thinking how deep these questions are.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Traveling around the Philippines. I love Boracay.
What is the first thing you look for when you meet a woman?
Her smile. I don’t like talking to people who don’t smile.
Which historical character would you like to have been?
The woman I was named after, Joan of Arc. She stood up for her convictions.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Being a doctor. It was my parents’ dream. I wish that my father could have lived long enough to see where I am now.
What did your dad often say to you?
He always pushed me to believe that I can do anything I want to do.
What is your favorite journey?
Going to work.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I would like to think that I have and would love to cultivate the talent for drama.
What is the quality you most like in a man?
A very rare trait in a man is his sincerity. He must also be someone who makes me laugh.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
Sincerity would also be the first thing. I admire women who have a drive.
How do you see life?
It’s full of opportunities. And it’s just a matter of what you make of these opportunities. It is up to you whether to cultivate or ignore them.