It's interesting to me that the most common question I'm asked by patients isn't related to breast augmentation or facelifts. The most common question I hear every week is, "With all of your credentials, why Idaho?" To be honest growing up in Southern California and Florida I never would have imagined I would have ended up in Idaho... but that was before I actually visited this area. However, after living here for awhile now, my answer is always the same: "Why Not Idaho!"?
After eight years of plastic surgery training away from Florida, I set out to start a practice back home where most of my family lived. It didn't take long in the heat to realize that I had forgotten just how much I preferred the air conditioner to being sweltering outdoors in the Sunshine State. After a few years, I began my quest to relocate to the mountains because of my love of skiing, hiking and the beauty of having four seasons. I had nearly decided on moving to Vail, Colorado when I met Dr. Catherine Durboraw who convinced me to visit her offices in Sun Valley, Jackson Hole and Idaho Falls. After a long visit with Dr. Durboraw, seeing the beauty of Yellowstone, the majesty of the Tetons and the elegance of Sun Valley, I thought... "Why Not Idaho?"
For an outdoorsman like me, Idaho is perfect. From rafting, skiing, hiking, fishing, hunting, camping, biking, and snow machining... this area offers more than I could possibly do in a lifetime. I think this area of the country is relatively undiscovered and I like it that way. However, I imagine Eastern Idaho will be discovered before long. As a business owner, I want nothing more than to see the growth of this region, but on the other hand I enjoy the current small town feel.
From a professional standpoint, I'm happy to be in an area that benefits from my particular experience and training in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. The medical community in Idaho is a great place to practice and it is unique to see such camaraderie among healthcare professionals. On a personal note, my wife and I have enjoyed our time in Idaho and look forward to raising our children in this community. The people here are some of the best we have ever known. We really enjoy the smaller town feel of Idaho Falls, but also like visiting Jackson Hole and Sun Valley as well. I feel better knowing there is a moral center in our town and appreciate the commitment people in this area have to their country, religion and community. So with all this area has to offer on so many levels... "Why Not Idaho?"
Esto Perpetua!
- Mark E. Freeman, MD