About Lindsay Meet Lindsay Tomkiewicz. The first in her family to enter the medical field, Lindsay says she took the long way around to medicine, starting her undergrad work as an accounting major. “Math was my favorite subject,” she says. “After deciding that wasn’t for me, I took a short hiatus working as a pediatric unit assistant at Memorial Hospital. The nurses there inspired me to become a nurse.” Lindsay knew she wanted to be a surgical nurse and has worked in the pre- and post-outpatient surgery area for ten years now. She has been part of the Beacon Health System for almost 20 years. “Surgery became my passion, and I have enjoyed taking care of patients who are scared, anxious and out of their comfort zone. I feel that this is where I am able to provide the most compassionate care.” When it comes to caring for her patients, Lindsay believes in always putting them first. “I keep an open mind and know that the patient can tell me more about a diagnosis than the exam. I just learned what questions to ask, the patient does the rest.” She emphasizes the importance of keeping an open mind and never leaving a differential uncovered. “Every patient is unique and has their own story to tell.” In her own words… Who was the most influential person/role model in your life? My Aunt Joyce was a wonderful person. I have always wished I was half as caring, compassionate, warm, and welcoming as her. What was your first job growing up? What do you remember most about it? I was a sandwich artist at Subway! I remember I enjoyed working the cash register more than making sandwiches. What is your favorite food? Movie? Well, my request for every birthday was roast beef with mashed potatoes and gravy, so I’ll have to go with that. I am very good at falling asleep during movies, but I can always stay awake for The Fifth Element. What were your best/worst subjects in school growing up? Best was definitely math, and my worst was literature. If you could sit down to dinner with anyone (alive or deceased), who would it be and why? My grandmother was a very stoic woman. She passed when I was twelve, so I would like to sit down with her and talk about her life and family. In addition to medicine, what are you passionate about? What are your hobbies, interests? I love spending time with my family and baking. Do you have pets? I have always loved animals and may have been a veterinarian if I didn’t become a nurse. I currently have 2 dogs and 2 cats (and recently rehomed a bunny). What is something most people don’t know about you? I really enjoy classical music and play the cello.