What inspired you to pursue a career in minimally invasive surgery?
I completed residency at the University of Ottawa and was fortunate to have Dr. Sony Singh assigned to me as a staff mentor. He likes to say I chose him, so let this set the record straight! I enjoyed the creative approach he and the MIS team had towards planning complex surgery. I wanted to focus more time training in an MIS program for a few reasons. To gain more experience in surgical planning and gain more hours operating so I could move toward more advanced skills. I’m very grateful to the staff in Regina for giving me the opportunity to train with them.
What do you like about practicing in Northern Ontario?
Northern Ontario is home for me, so like many people who live here, that was the initial draw. I enjoy the size of Thunder Bay for professional life. We have one hospital and I love that when I pick up the phone to call another service, we know each other. I am able to travel to a few smaller towns to provide consults and surgery which I enjoy. It allows patients to have surgery even closer to home. The work is challenging since we are so far from other centres. The best part of living in Thunder Bay is never sitting in traffic and being able to be at work and then 20 minutes later sitting lake front or out skiing, depending on the season.
What’s your favourite part of your job?
I enjoy operating the most but I must say that I enjoy the variety of a general practice. I would have a hard time doing the same thing everyday, even if I was operating.
Why did you decide to get involved with CanSAGE?
I feel passionate about increasing patients’ access to the right surgery for them, performed by the right surgeon, no matter where they live. CanSAGE is a group of gynecologists trying to support both patients and surgeons. I’m excited to be part of such a great organization, and to learn from so many who have been instrumental in getting it started.
Do you have any hobbies? What do you do in your spare time?
I have a lot of hobbies. I enjoy sewing and many other crafts. I do a poor job at most of them and worry that people might think my surgical skills are comparable to my sewing skills! I find it very relaxing because at work you can’t quit a hard case, but if you’re sewing something and it sucks, you can just toss it and start over. I play in a soccer league, with more and more concern for injury as I get older. I’ve gotten into skate skiing which has allowed me to enjoy the winter months more. This past summer I started playing tennis. I love spending time with my nieces and nephews and the rest of my family. In the summer I spend as much time at camp as possible.
