“For as long as I can remember, I loved the study of anatomy and wanted to be a surgeon, which blended well with just a natural desire to talk to and take care of people – to see them through what I could only imagine was a trying time.  The tables were turned, however, when I was diagnosed with early stage breast cancer, a diagnosis and journey that has had a profound impact both personally and professionally. I now have a better understanding of what my patients are feeling, what they are thinking and even what they are not asking when we sit down and talk. I am a better provider for having that experience.”  — Dr. Gardikas