This is the first in a series to get to know your Garrison Women’s Health providers and staff in a more in-depth way. First up, our newest addition, Dr. Kristin Yates! Dr. Yates recently finished up her residency at West Penn Hospital in Pittsburg, PA and had her first full day at Garrison on July 25th, 2016.
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What is your favorite thing about working at Garrison?
The people! From my very first encounter with Garrison, it felt like a family. Everyone is so nice and personable and genuinely care about me and my family. I am so lucky to have a job that I look forward to going to every day, and that is because of the people I work with.
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Why did you choose to work in healthcare? Explain.
I wanted to be challenged and I wanted to get to know people on a personal level. In regards to OB/GYN specifically, I wanted to be someone who women could trust and confide in throughout their lives, from adolescence to pregnancy to menopause. It is important that women have a healthcare provider that is on her side and wants to help her remain happy and healthy through all the changes our bodies experience throughout life.
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What’s the number one thing you do to stay healthy?
Laugh. Of course, I try to eat a healthy diet and exercise, but I make sure I surround myself with people who will make me laugh every day. Laughter helps me take life a little less seriously so I can stay healthy mentally!
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What do you love about living in the Dover area/New Hampshire? Explain.
Family. Most of my family is in New Hampshire and Maine, and I have spent so many years without my family close to me. I am enjoying being able to see them on a more regular basis!
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Who is your hero? Explain.
I have so many wonderful people in my life that I could call my hero. My husband is my hero because he has put himself second to me and my career. He is truly selfless and I wouldn’t be as put together as I am (most days) without him. My mom is my hero because she is such a strong and intelligent woman. She raised three kids and has a successful career and I try hard every day to be half the mom to my daughter that she was to me. My dad is my hero because he always has a dream and finds a way to achieve them. He loves unconditionally, is supportive, and has mastered the ability to provide advice without being pushy.
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What is your most memorable moment working in healthcare?
I have so many wonderful moments, as I am sure that everyone who works in healthcare does. I think that in general, my favorite moments are when I feel that I have truly helped someone and have made an impact on them in some way. These moments are what make my job fulfilling.
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What is your favorite book? Why?
James and the Giant Peach. I read this book over 10 times when I was a kid. It has a great message about overcoming adversity and it activates the imagination.
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What is your favorite movie? Why?
I love all the X-Men movies. I remember playing X-Men when I was a kid, I always wanted to be Storm or Jean. Hugh Jackman as Wolverine is a bonus!
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What is your go-to karaoke song? Explain.
Africa by Toto. I have probably only done karaoke twice in my life, but I think this song is awesome.
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Cost aside, where would you like to go on your next vacation? Why?
Mediterranean Cruise. I have never been on a cruise and want to go so badly! And I have heard that every destination is breathtaking.
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What is your favorite animal? Why?
I love jellyfish. I don’t really have a good reason, I just think they’re pretty and I like to watch them float around.
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What is your favorite meal?
My mom’s chicken pot pie! I’ve tried to make it a few times, but it never turns out as delicious.
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What is your favorite sport/activity to play?
I like kickball. It’s low stress because it’s hard to strike out in kickball and it doesn’t really hurt to get hit with it.
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Are you married/have a significant other?
Yes, my husband’s name in Pat and we have been married for 2 years. We actually met online 2 days after I moved to Pittsburgh for residency. It sounds cheesy, but it really was love at first site (for me at least!)
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Do you have any children?
We have a year and a half-year-old little girl named Nora and she is pretty great! We also have a dog named Chia.
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What are a couple songs/artists would be included on your ideal mixtape?
Backstreet Boys, Green Day, and Rick Astley! I like a variety of music, but I enjoy reliving my youth with 90s songs!
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What is included in your ideal weekend?
Having a BBQ with friends and family, hanging out on the lake and playing games.
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Name one item on your bucket list.
Celebrate a 50-year wedding anniversary with my husband. Only 48 more years to go!
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What was your dream job growing up?
A judge. When I was in middle school I loved my civics class and for most of my childhood, and even my first year of college, I thought I was going to be a lawyer with the ultimate goal of becoming a judge. Once I started studying law in college, I was bored and realized it was not for me.
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If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be?
Playing the piano. I have zero musical talent whatsoever and I would love to know how to play beautiful music on the piano!
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Would you rather spend 10 minutes on the moon, or travel in Europe for a year with a $2,500/month stipend? Explain.
Travel in Europe! I have no desire to be in a rocket or anything crazy like that. But exploring Europe would be amazing. I would spend all my money on food.
