Dr. Shaun Lampen's ’11 journey from his time at Meadowridge School to becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon was a testament to his unwavering determination and his passion for helping others.
Shaun's path into the world of medicine was heavily influenced by his parents, both of whom are doctors. Growing up, he witnessed the profound impact they had on their community and their genuine happiness in their work. His parents' dedication to their profession left an indelible mark on Shaun, and he knew early on that he wanted to follow in their footsteps.
After graduating from Meadowridge School, Shaun embarked on his educational journey. He completed his two-year post baccalaureate program in Anatomy and Cell Biology at McGill University, where he laid the foundation for his future medical studies. Following this, he pursued an undergraduate degree in Kinesiology, further deepening his understanding of the human body and its mechanics. But Shaun's thirst for knowledge and his desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of others led him to Queen's University, where he earned his Medical Doctorate.
It was during his time at Queen's University that Shaun found his true calling in Orthopedic Surgery. His background in sports, including water polo, rowing, and spike ball, had instilled in him a love for the hands-on and team-oriented nature of the field. Orthopedic surgery, with its focus on instant fixes and restoring the body to its proper form, resonated with him deeply.
As Shaun delved further into his medical studies, he was struck by the variety of options within the field of medicine. He appreciated the diversity of specialties, from the extroverted nature of orthopedics to the quieter realms of radiology. The ability to choose a path that aligned with his personality and skills was something that greatly appealed to him.
Reflecting on his time at Meadowridge School, Shaun fondly remembered the dedicated teachers who had a significant impact on his education. Teachers like Ms. Hops and Mr. Spurgeon, along with Ms. Bereza, were deeply invested in their students' growth. Meadowridge was a place where Shaun thrived both academically and personally, and he was grateful for the unique experiences it provided.
Shaun's involvement in sports during his school years, including rowing and water polo, had a profound influence on his professional life. He recognized the parallels between sports and orthopedic surgery—both required teamwork and the ability to perform under pressure. These experiences shaped him into a surgeon who valued collaboration and who understood the importance of working as a team to achieve a common goal.
After completing his extensive medical training, Shaun found himself drawn to the rewarding aspects of his profession. He revelled in the instant gratification of making a difference in patients' lives by fixing their ailments. The stories of recovery and the positive outcomes were a constant source of motivation for him. However, like any profession, there were challenges. The arduous and tiring nature of residency training could be overwhelming. Long nights and early mornings, coupled with high stress traumas make medical training an exceptionally demanding field. Still, Shaun understood that these were necessary aspects of the job, ensuring the highest standards of care and accountability.
Looking back at his time at Meadowridge, Shaun recognized the school's emphasis on inquiry-based learning and critical thinking as valuable assets that prepared him for the rigor of medical school and the ever-evolving field of medicine. He believes in the importance of being a lifelong learner, constantly seeking new knowledge and staying updated with the latest advancements in medicine.
Shaun's journey from Meadowridge School to becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon was a testament to the power of dedication, passion, and the unwavering support of his parents and educators. He had taken ownership of his path, steering his own ship toward a fulfilling career dedicated to helping others.