Brian's Graduation

Brian graduated from General Surgery on June 18, 2010! After 5 long years of a lot of long hours, sleep deprivation, studying, devastating and gratifying surgeries, Brian has completed his training. 5 years ago, it seemed that this day would never come. Now that it has come and passed, it is hard to believe. I marvel that my husband really is a doctor. I often kid with him that I don't believe he is truly a surgeon. Perhaps because he is a very passive, patient and kind man with few words who rarely looses his temper. Most surgeons are not of that temperament. We could call the graduation, the "Brian Sadowski Show". I was so proud of him that evening as he took home more awards than anyone with 4 total. He was supposed to have a fifth one (Outstanding VA Resident) but Dr. Thomas (the current program director) advised the VA to pick another resident as Brian already had so many. The awards he got were:

1. Roberts Award
2. Best Clinical Resident
3. 3rd Place for Research Day
4. Scott Surgical Scholar (this was for getting the highest score out of all residents on his Absite exam)

We were all so proud of him that evening. My father was able to be present as well as both of Brian's parents. Ben and Veronica Vacula were in attendance as well to celebrate with us! What a night it was and Noah was able to tag along while Jacob and Caleb stayed with good friend, Melissa Daniel and her two boys Hayden and Elijah.

Brian, Jess, Noah and Dr. Mohsen Shabahang
Dr. Shabahang had been at S&W for 8 years. 5 years ago he took over as program director and guided Brian through his whole training. He has been an incredible boss and mentor to Brian. He is a fabulous surgeon and an excellent teacher!

Jess, Noah and Dr. Riley. Dr. Riley is a Urologist who has circumcised all three boys!

Dad, Jess, Noah, Jack, Vicki and Brian

Jack, Vicki, Brian, Noah and Jess

Brian, Jess, Veronica, Noah and Ben

Brian and Jess

Thankfully I was able to get into my cocktail dress being only 3 weeks post-partum to the day!