Surfing with...I mean working with... orthopedic surgeons pays off

I am loving my fellowship here. And I don't just mean the surfing and beaches! I mean I love the work too. I am fortunate to work with a great group of guys who have taught me so much. And I am getting heaps of hands on experience, which has definitely boosted my operative skills and confidence. Coming here for training was

definitely a great decision.

One of the most important things I have learned from the surgeons here is how to make the most out of life! I have become good friends with a number of the younger surgeons here with whom I have much in common. Similar ages, similar young families and similar priorities (ie. family comes first, then work). These guys all seem to make the time to enjoy their families and pursue their hobbies. They seem to have found that perfect balance that I can now realize is possible in this busy profession. And of course, NZ has no shortage of recreational activities. It's a true adventure tourism mecca.

The learning certainly doesn't end in the hospital. They've been teaching me plenty about surfing too. I've been getting out surfing with a few of the consultant orthopedic surgeons every weekend. One of them has this great old 4x4 van. A classic "surf-mobile". We load up around 5:00am every Sunday morning, arrive at the beach before sunrise, drive up the beach scouting out the perfect break, and in the water before the sunrises over the hills. Hitting up a different "locals" spot each time. Like my own guided tour of the NZ surf scene. Priceless.

This morning's surf was somewhat more eventful than usual. After a solid session, I got pummelled by a monster wave. As I was getting tossed in the washing machine, my fin sliced open my heel pretty deep. Needed stitches. Luckily, one of the surgeons I was with called ahead to the hospital to set up a minor OR room. So on the way home we stoped at the hospital, sutured me up and were out the door all in about 15 min (and about 10 of those mins was registering in ER). Perks of the job I guess.