CATCHING UP WITH KEVIN BRUEN

Winter 2002, University Park Hotel. I remember the evening gathering when I interviewed. It was snowing outside. The room had energy as residents shared stories of working hard and playing hard. Skiing at Alta and fellowships at MD Anderson. I remember thinking to myself…these residents are...happy.

Happy? There is no happiness in surgery! Happy surgical residents? That can't be! Arthur Brooks in his book From Strength to Strength includes in his key components of happiness, friendship and meaningful work. That evening, I saw the potential for both and experienced them throughout my training. I remember clear purpose, growth, and camaraderie. I remember living in the moment with feelings of accomplishment and satisfaction. There was plenty of adventure and enthusiasm both inside and outside the hospital. 

Following graduation, my wife Erica and I moved to Gainesville for my vascular surgery fellowship at the University of Florida. In 2010, we landed in Billings, Montana. We chose St. Vincent Hospital for the people, an opportunity to build a modern-day vascular program and to raise our children in the Mountain West. Johnny plays soccer, violin, and enjoys indoor rock climbing. Lannon plays cello and is a competitive horseback rider. “Dr. Erica” has been a local news celebrity and, in 2022, was recognized as the American College of Physicians Internist of the Year for Montana. 

I am reminded of my time in Utah each day I see my colleagues Jeff Rentz and Katie Hatch in the surgeon’s lounge. Both were at that interview gathering over 20 years ago. To my fellow residents and to the faculty, thank you for contributing to life here in Montana.