My background
While I might appear a bit experienced for a 38-year-old veterinarian, let me assure you, my journey to this point has been rich and varied. Initially, I embarked on a career far removed from veterinary medicine, working as an assistant controller at a Ford dealership for nearly a decade. My career path there was dynamic, starting from the ground up as a receptionist, advancing through warranty administration, and ultimately to the role of assistant controller, where I handled payroll, accounts receivable and payable, and even tax remittances. It was during this time that I was fortunate to be embraced by a nurturing family keen on seeing me flourish as a certified general accountant.
However, as I journeyed through life, marrying my best friend and undergoing a significant personal transformation by cutting all my hair off, I began to question my career trajectory. This period of introspection led me to believe I was navigating a quarter-life crisis, yearning to make a tangible difference in the world. Thus, I made the bold decision to pivot towards veterinary medicine, a field that seemed wildly unrelated to my previous experiences.
I reached out to the sole veterinary clinic in my small city, where I connected with a seasoned veterinarian who initially resisted the idea of taking me on. Despite his hesitations, I convinced him to meet me, which ultimately led to him offering me a job after we clicked and I surprisingly aced a math challenge he presented. This opportunity marked a significant departure from my previous career, considering I had already left the dealership once before to explore a role in public health, only to return and leave again for veterinary pursuits.
Transitioning into veterinary medicine was no small feat. I started at the clinic as a receptionist and quickly worked my way up to manager, a role that allowed me to relieve the vet of administrative duties by applying my background in payroll and accounting. This experience was instrumental in preparing me for vet school, where I encountered both academic and personal challenges. Despite a rocky start that saw me failing my first year, the resilience and determination I cultivated over the years pushed me to persevere, ultimately leading me to graduate and become the veterinarian I had aspired to be.
My career as a veterinarian took me from Manitoba back to southern Alberta, where I now work in a small animal clinic and pursue locum opportunities across Calgary. This journey has been about more than just professional growth; it has been deeply personal, especially after being diagnosed with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HOCM). This diagnosis led to a series of medical interventions, including surgery, that not only challenged me physically but also reshaped my outlook on life and my career.
As I embark on this new chapter of sharing my experiences through “The Heartful Vet” blog, my goal is to offer insights into the life of a vet, the challenges and triumphs of the profession, and how personal health journeys can intertwine with professional aspirations. I hope to inspire, inform, and engage others who share a passion for animals and a curiosity about the veterinary field. This blog is a testament to the unpredictable path life can take and the incredible places it can lead when you’re driven by a desire to make a difference.
This adventure, transitioning from the automotive industry to veterinary medicine, underscores a vital lesson: it’s never too late to pursue a passion, regardless of how divergent the path may seem. My early years at the dealership equipped me with a unique skill set and resilience, which proved invaluable as I navigated the demanding world of veterinary medicine. Each step, from the humble beginnings as a receptionist to managing complex administrative tasks, prepared me for the multifaceted challenges of veterinary practice.
The journey through veterinary school was punctuated by significant obstacles, including the daunting experience of failing my first year. Yet, this setback served as a pivotal moment, compelling me to confront my fears and shortcomings head-on. It was a period of profound personal growth, teaching me the importance of perseverance, humility, and the strength found in vulnerability. The camaraderie among those who shared in this journey, particularly those who, like me, faced the prospect of failure, created an unbreakable bond and a shared determination to succeed against the odds.
The transition back into academia, particularly after a career and life built around a completely different set of skills and experiences, was a testament to the idea that our past does not dictate our future. Instead, it enriches it, providing depth and perspective that can be leveraged in unforeseen ways. My return to veterinary practice, post-graduation, was not just a professional homecoming but also a personal triumph, marked by the overcoming of academic and emotional hurdles that once seemed insurmountable.
Moreover, my journey was further complicated by a life-threatening heart condition, which not only posed a significant risk to my health but also forced me to confront my mortality. This experience, while terrifying, imbued me with a deeper appreciation for life and a renewed sense of purpose. It emphasized the importance of health, not just as a veterinarian caring for animals but in acknowledging our own vulnerabilities and the need for self-care. My battle with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, culminating in a successful surgery, was a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
In sharing my story through “The Heartful Vet” blog, I aim to bridge the gap between personal and professional life, illustrating how each influences and enriches the other. This blog is not only about the clinical aspects of veterinary medicine but also about the emotional and physical journey that accompanies this calling. It’s a platform for connection, understanding, and inspiration, offering a glimpse into the reality of veterinary work, the joy and pain it brings, and the profound impact of pursuing one’s passions, regardless of the obstacles.
I invite you to join me on this journey, as I delve into the day-to-day life of a vet, share stories of resilience and recovery, and explore the intersection of personal health and professional fulfillment. It’s a story of transformation, hope, and the enduring power of love—for our pets, our profession, and ourselves.
With a big ole’ Heart,
Dr. Cheryl
The Heartful Vet 