get to know me :)

You might have seen that one selfie I snapped in my blue scrubs and surgical cap – a quick moment of reflection in the middle of a busy day. It’s a little glimpse into my daily reality as a general surgery resident, but it’s far from the whole story! Stepping into those scrubs each day is a privilege and a challenge, demanding focus, resilience, and a deep commitment to patient care. The operating room can be intense, but there's an incredible satisfaction in helping people heal and seeing them recover. But life isn't all about the hospital corridors. Balancing such a demanding career means finding pockets of joy and passion outside of work. For me, that often involves getting out into nature or onto a court. I absolutely adore tennis; there's something so invigorating about the speed and strategy of the game. It’s a fantastic way to clear my head and get some much-needed exercise after long hours, whether I'm hitting balls or just watching a good match from a cozy spot overlooking the court. Then there’s my love for the outdoors. If I have a free moment, you’ll likely find me hiking or exploring. There’s nothing quite like standing on a cliff edge, looking out over a deep blue lake surrounded by a forest, or gazing at a mountainous landscape from a unique viewpoint like that huge hand-shaped sculpture. These moments remind me to slow down, breathe, and appreciate the vast beauty of the world. It’s also fueled my goal to explore even more new places, to see what else is out there. My roots are also a big part of who I am. Being of Latvian origin and speaking Russian has really shaped my perspective and enriched my life. It's a connection to a rich cultural heritage that I carry with me, whether I'm working, traveling, or just relaxing. And speaking of relaxing, sometimes all you need is a good drink to unwind. Mine? An extra dirty martini – a perfect little indulgence after a long week! So, while the scrubs and the surgical cap are a huge part of my professional identity, there's so much more to me. From my love for the ocean and boats (there’s just something about the sea!) to my passion for staying active and discovering new horizons, I’m always striving for a full and balanced life. What about you? What are the surprising sides to your daily grind?