& ANSWERS QUESTIONS

Q. Why did you choose colorectal surgery as your profession? (Ew, right?)

A. This is my favorite question to answer! Being a colorectal surgeon is an amazing profession. I have a large colonoscopy practice where I frequently remove large or complex polyps. I’m always happy to be able to prevent and even sometimes cure colon cancer with a colonoscopy. In addition, I’m the only female colorectal surgeon in town so I provide a lot of women (and men) relief in the area of anorectal disease including the treatment of hemorrhoids, fissures and fistulas. Remember, I have the smallest hands in town!

Q. Your husband is a well-known attorney in town — we all want to know who wins most of the debates in your house?

A. I would say we are pretty well matched in the wit department. I daresay my husband has suggested I go to law school for a second career!

Q. Have you had to overcome obstacles being a female surgeon? If so, how have you handled these challenges?

A. Definitely. As a young female, I am commonly misjudged as not “looking like a surgeon.” I handle this by volunteering to prepare the future female surgeons in this community. I started a small group for the female surgery residents to discuss important issues including gender bias, maternity leave, gender pay gap and glass ceilings. This group has brought me so much joy!

Q. What advice would you give to young girls who are interested in becoming a surgeon?

A. When I started medical school, I was in the first class to have an equal number of men and women. Now, more than 50 percent of physicians in the United States are women. Recently, some studies have shown female surgeons have better outcomes, including lower mortality. So go get it, girl! We need more of you!

Q. What is something that most of your colleagues and patients don’t know about you but would find interesting?

A. I am able to use sign language with my deaf patients. I didn’t realize what a difference this made until Covid hit with the increased use of masks. The past several years were difficult for everyone, but especially to those who are deaf or hard-of-hearing, and being able to sign always seems to bring a small amount of relief to deaf patients undergoing procedures.