Jillian Grimm, D.O., colon and rectal surgeon, is now seeing patients at Texas Colon & Rectal Specialists–New Braunfels. Dr. Grimm discusses where she would be if she was not a surgeon and her personal philosophy on the importance of communication and support in patient care.
Did you always know you wanted to be a doctor, specifically a colon and rectal surgeon?
I always knew I wanted to become a physician from an early age. Growing up, I often "played doctor" with my younger brother. I initially anticipated becoming a primary care physician; however, when I started my third year of medical school, I was put on a surgical rotation and immediately became fascinated by the field. Although I had not always expected to be a colon and rectal surgeon, I had a special interest in the gastrointestinal tract throughout my medical training. I discovered that I enjoyed performing colorectal procedures as well as smaller outpatient and more complex abdominal cases.
What is your personal philosophy around patient care and what would you like prospective patients to know?
I treat every patient of mine how I would want my parents or family members to be treated. Surgery can be overwhelming and uncertain to some. I would like my prospective patients to know that I am here to address any of their questions or concerns with honest communication, education, and support.
What has been the biggest lesson learned throughout your medical career and/or training?
While we have seen significant advances in cancer care, there is still so much to learn and understand about the human body. As surgeons, we want to be able to fix everything. The biggest lesson I have learned in my career to-date is the importance of continuing to learn and incorporate the new and innovative treatments we discover through cancer research. These findings allow us to provide the best possible care to our cancer patients.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy spending your time doing?
When I am not working, I enjoy working in the garden, taking a boat ride, and spending time with my husband and our three dogs. I also love to travel, hike, and try new foods or restaurants nearby.
What has been your favorite volunteer experience and what did you do?
My favorite volunteer experience was when I went on a trip to Malawi in Africa to care for patients alongside an infectious disease pediatrician during medical school. After spending a few days treating children with malaria, we rotated to different subspecialties, where I assisted the school's hospital director and surgeon. During my time there, I saw how different healthcare systems are in underdeveloped countries, and it opened my eyes to how truly fortunate we are to live in a place where we have access to the latest tools and technology to care for patients.
What is one thing most people don't know about you (passions, hobbies, hidden talents, etc.)
One thing most people do not know about me is that I am naturally left-handed but grew up playing sports with my right hand. I've taken this hidden talent into my professional career, using both hands while operating versus being dominant with one hand like most surgeons.
If you weren't a doctor, what would you be and why?
If I was not a doctor, I would be in a field where I could be active and use my hands to create or better something, such as a gardener, landscaper, or potter.