In the United States, more than 100,000 people are currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, according to Donate Life America, with a new name added to the national transplant waiting list every 8 to 10 minutes.

The Texas Medical Board has begun accepting applications for two new physician license categories created by House Bill 2038, known as the DOCTOR Act, expanding pathways for internationally trained physicians and medical school graduates who did not secure residency positions.

Across operating rooms in the Rio Grande Valley, two surgeons are helping shape the future of medicine while redefining what leadership in surgery looks like. Dr. Sandra Esquivel and Dr. Krystha Cantu represent different generations, yet they share a commitment to precision, innovation, and compassionate patient care.

Dr. Sandra Esquivel, MD, FACS, has spent more than 30 years in surgery, building a career centered on patient care while helping introduce robotic technology at South Texas Health System (STHS) Edinburg.