Member Spotlight
November 2022
MR NICOLAS MOUAWAD
RCSI FELLOW (2008), ALUMNI (CLASS OF 2005) AND VASCULAR & ENDOVASCULAR SURGEON Mr Nicolas Mouawad is a Vascular & Endovascular Surgeon, living and working in Bay Region, Michigan, United States. He is Vice-Chair, Department of Surgery, Chair, Cardiovascular Research Council, McLaren Health System Bay Region Michigan and Associate Clinical Professor of Surgery Michigan State University and Central Michigan University.
What made you decide to become a surgeon?
I was always intrigued by the sciences at an early age and had focused my education on biochemistry, organic chemistry and pharmacology. It was through this pathway that I was introduced to clinical medicine and I was able to see how all cellular and molecular work translated into real tangible clinical benefits for patients. I decided on being a surgeon during my medical education as it seemed the natural next step following my passion for anatomy, physiology and pathology. I was able to physically see how organs functioned and how their interplay affected the human body; furthermore, I saw the technical expert skills of master surgeons repairing or removing pathology and restoring health and function. I was captivated and intrigued!
THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE I RECEIVED IS TO “ENJOY IT ALONG THE WAY”.
Beating Burnout:
Burnout is real. The current demands are tough and surgery is challenging. My advice to the trainees is “you can’t take care of patients if you can’t take care of yourself”. The most difficult part in my opinion is personal insight into the issue. Focus on your wellness. It’s ok to pause and reset.
Out of Hours: Do you have any hobbies, passions or passion projects?
I’m a foodie and I love to travel. That’s probably my biggest passion – eating! I’ve been very fortunate to travel a lot of the world and I’ve been exposed to many cultures, traditions and foods. I love to try new things when I get a chance! The world is beautiful place and there is so much to see and learn!
Mentors and Inspirations
There have been multiple individuals along different aspects of my surgical career path. Professor Patrick Broe was instrumental in my early career development when I was an intern and I remain in awe to this day of his surgical mastery! He has always been supportive and continues to be supportive of my surgical career as well as Professor Cathal Kelly and Professor Deborah McNamara who have had a profound impact on my journey. I thank them! In addition, once matriculated to the USA, Dr Gaard Arneson, Professor Walter Whitehouse and Professor Patrick Vacarroare just fabulous educators and mentors. And of course, my parents and my brother Karim who have been with me and supporting me since day 1.
What Now?
I have been very blessed thus far with my personal life and professional career. I did pursue further training with a Master’s in Business Administration focused on Healthcare Administration as well as a Master’s in Public Health focused on Health Policy and Health Education and Promotion. Having trained and worked in different continents, I am very interested in health care delivery and the management of health care. So we’ll see!
Some say laughter is the best medicine. What is yours? Or, tell us your favourite joke?
I am a big fan of life. Taking trips, trying new foods and seeing new places – this is what I thoroughly enjoy. I feel at ease, comfortable and relaxed, particularly in the sun and at the beach. And I would tell a joke but I’m told that I think they are funnier than they actually are!
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