Barbie’s Neurology Journey: How a Cuban Immigrant Became a Veterinary Anesthesia Advocate
The hum of the MRI machine fills the room as Barbie Santiesteban carefully adjusts the positioning of Gizmo, a dachshund paralyzed from intervertebral disc disease. This scan marks a critical step before the dog undergoes a life-changing hemilaminectomy. As a Certified Veterinary Technician in neurology at Southeast Veterinary Neurology, Barbie has prepared hundreds of patients for complex surgeries, but she never takes these moments for granted.
"Seeing a paralyzed dog walk again after surgery? That’s why I do this," Barbie says, adjusting the anesthesia monitors. "These pets come to us at their most vulnerable, and we get to give them a second chance."
From Havana to High-Stakes Neurology
Barbie’s story begins 1,300 miles away in Cuba, where her love for animals blossomed early. "I was that kid bringing home stray dogs, nursing injured birds," she laughs. But it wasn’t until her family relocated to Florida in 2010 that her veterinary dreams began to take shape.
At 17, Barbie landed an internship at a local clinic—a pivotal experience that quickly turned into her first paid role as a surgery assistant. "I fell in love with the operating room immediately," she recalls. "The precision, the teamwork, the direct impact on patients—it was electrifying."
After four years in general practice, Barbie sought new challenges. She joined Southeast Veterinary Neurology as an imaging and surgery technician, where she now:
Operates advanced diagnostic equipment like MRI, CT, and EEG.
Manages anesthesia during high-stakes neurological surgeries.
Monitors delicate procedures, including craniotomies and VP shunt placements.
All while completing her veterinary technology degree and earning her CVT credential in 2024.
Why Neurology? The Pull of High-Stakes Cases
"Neurology chose me as much as I chose it," Barbie reflects. She was initially drawn to the specialty for its technical demands—particularly the anesthesia challenges—but remained captivated by the profound patient transformations she witnessed every day.
"Nothing compares to seeing a dog regain the ability to walk after we relieve spinal cord compression," she says. "Or watching a seizuring cat become stable after proper treatment. These cases are why the long hours are worth it."
Some of Barbie’s favorite procedures include:
Foramen magnum decompressions for Chiari-like malformations
Ventriculoperitoneal shunts to manage hydrocephalus
Hemilaminectomies for IVDD patients
"These surgeries are like puzzles. We’re navigating the nervous system, and one millimeter can make the difference between success and complication," she explains.
The Three Pillars of Her Success
Barbie attributes her success to three core values that have guided her through her career:
Determination – "I've never let 'no' stop me. Not when immigrating, not when pursuing this career."
Adaptability – "In Cuba, we learned to make do with limited resources. That skill translates perfectly to vet med—you always have to think on your feet."
Advocacy – "Growing up quiet taught me to speak up fiercely for those who can't. These patients depend on us to be their voice."
Career Crossroads: From Vet School Dreams to Technician Passion
Though Barbie initially dreamt of becoming a veterinarian, she ultimately realized that being a veterinary technician was just as meaningful—and even more rewarding.
"I bought into the idea that being a vet was the only way to make an impact," she admits. "But as I worked in practice, I realized that technicians are the backbone of patient care. We're the ones monitoring vitals during surgery, catching subtle changes, advocating for pain management—those moments of connection are why I love my job."
Barbie credits her supervisor Ana (now a close friend) for helping her recognize her passion for anesthesia. "Ana saw my potential before I did. She's the reason I’m pursuing my VTS in Anesthesia and Analgesia."
Words to Her Younger Self
"If I could go back, I’d tell teenage Barbie to stop agonizing over the future and start taking small steps today," she reflects. "That first clinic internship changed everything—action dissolves fear."
Barbie now mentors aspiring technicians, especially those intimidated by anesthesia. "It’s a scary specialty, but it’s so rewarding. I want to show others that with the right training, they can thrive in these high-stakes situations."
Beyond the Clinic: Rats, RPGs, and Resilience
When she’s not saving lives at the clinic, Barbie unwinds with her beloved pets—a dog, cat, and two rats—and indulges in video games. "After intense surgery days, nothing beats cuddling my pets or getting lost in a fantasy RPG," she says, smiling.
But even during downtime, her true passion remains at the clinic. "Every day, I get to help rewrite stories—the paralyzed dog who walks again, the seizuring cat who gets years more with their family. That privilege never gets old."
What’s Next?
With her CVT credential in hand, Barbie is focused on furthering her career:
Earning her VTS in Anesthesia and Analgesia.
Developing technician training programs for neurological anesthesia.
Advocating for greater technician involvement in specialty medicine.
"Ten years from now, I want to look back and see that I’ve helped elevate our profession—both in skills and recognition," she says. "Technicians deserve seats at the table when it comes to patient care decisions."
One thing’s for sure: whether she’s managing a tricky anesthesia case or mentoring new techs, Barbie will continue advocating fiercely for every patient in her care.
