My time in St. Louis, Missouri, gave me a renewed appreciation for the Canadian healthcare system, and  I was certain that I wanted to come back north.
Ottawa had a combination of factors that made it ideal. There was an excellent opportunity to develop both a peripheral nerve trauma program and an immediate breast reconstruction program, which were excellent fits for my fellowship training. The city also had the appeal of a number of outdoor activities, access to good restaurants and music, and proximity to family. I’m lucky to have several good friends who reside here too, and that really sealed the deal. It’s a great city to practice and to raise a family in.