Medical Women’s
Dinner Offers Practical Strategies for
Balancing Personal, Professional Life |
by Nancy Dale November 2004 More than 130 women physicians and medical students from the
Niagara and Hosted by the OMA
Women's Issues Committee and the OMA Public Affairs and Communications Department,
the evening featured a keynote presentation by Many guests found Dr. Gautam's candid approach to these subject matters
helpful. Referencing the many personal trials and tribulations that she
experiences raising her own three sons, Dr. Gautam illustrated to audience members
that they are not alone in their daily battles to balance family time and
full patient rosters. Some of the themes touched upon during the presentation
included the importance of taking time out to rejuvenate one's body, mind
and soul, and the idea that taking on a new task, making dinner for the
family, and squeezing in a few new patients at the end of the day - every day
- will eventually take its toll. Following the presentation, one audience
member echoed the general sentiment expressed by many of the guests when she
said, "Dr. Gautam's discussion tonight made
me realize that it is not considered a selfish act when I take some time out
for myself because, in reality, I won't be of any use to anyone else - to my
family or my patients unless
I am in healthy form first!" Dr. Gautam reminded audience members that
dealing with stress, and recognizing personal limits, will go a long way to
achieving a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Many women also found the evening
useful for networking with fellow medical women from surrounding communities
who face similar challenges. Additional events hosted by the Women's Issues
Committee are currently being planned. To obtain further information,
contact Nancy Dale, OMA Public Affairs and Communications Department, at
(416) 599-2580 or 1-800-268-7215, ext. 3304, or via e-mail (nancy_dale@ oma.org). |