Susan has been a consultant plastic surgeon specialising in hand surgery for six years.
She trained in plastic surgery in the North East before doing Hand Surgery Fellowships in Newcastle and Sydney, Australia. Being a hand surgeon involves looking after patients with hand injuries, acquired problems in the hand such as carpal tunnel syndrome and children born with hand deformities.
She is also the training programme director for plastic surgery in the North East so look after the plastics trainees in the region.
Susan lives with her husband and two daughters in the Tyne Valley.
What made you get into this area of work?
My first placement as a medical student was on a plastic surgery ward and I was amazed by the surgery that involved burns, hand surgery and reconstruction following cancer.
As I went through my training I decided to specialise in hand surgery. I love the intricate anatomy, the variety of procedures and the ability to restore function in the hand, something that is so important to everything we do.
What’s your favourite part of your work?
Definitely the people, the patients, my colleagues, working as part of a team to achieve a shared goal.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I live in the countryside and like to be outdoors. We have a wild garden where I’m getting better at growing fruit and vegetables. We also have pigs, hens and a cat all of which keep us busy.
As a family we enjoy walking, cycling and playing board games.
What would you say to someone who is interested in progressing a similar career?
Work hard, seek out opportunities and a good mentor and be enthusiastic about everything you do.
How did you find the filming and how did you feel about being part of the series?
The filming and being part of the series was out of my comfort zone but I was keen to show what we do in our hand trauma clinic and theatres.
The day of filming was made easier by the fantastic production team who did everything they could to make us feel at ease.
I’m really glad I took part, the show focuses on the patients, their stories and our fantastic teams who look after them. This is the reason I feel so proud to work in this trust.
