The Amazing Dr. David

Introducing the amazing Dr. David Eisen. A man with an unorthodox path that led him to where he is today. An appreciative, hard-working, and kind human being, that owns the title of husband, father, and doctor.

On a personal note, it brings me such joy when my husband and I are around him, which explains the beautiful quote he shared in the book Get Up, where he was asked:

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL YOUR TEENAGE SELF?

Oh my, it’s a goodie! But before I dive into what David meant by his wise words, as usual, I just had to find out a little more. And I am so glad that I did. Grab your favourite beverage, sit down, relax and check this guy out!

Who is David Eisen?

My amazing wife Lisa (@worldclass2969) and I have 3 fantastic kids and presently live in North York, Ontario. I practice medicine with a focus on maternity care, which I teach at North York General Hospital. At my local hospital, I am the Chief of Family Medicine. I also love yoga, biking, drumming, and skiing. Oh, and eating.

Did you always know you wanted to become a doctor?

I definitely did not always know I wanted to be a doctor.  My dad was a brilliant and beloved doctor, but I never felt that was going to be me. I wanted to be a rock and roll drummer.  Then I wanted to be an investment banker. I also thought about becoming a psychiatrist and also a cardiologist. My route to a family medicine physician, specializing in obstetrics was a bit of a long and winding road.

What are you most meaningful lessons you have learned so far as a:

• A. Doctor? Slow down, shut up, and LISTEN
• B. Father? Slow down, shut up, and LISTEN
• C. Husband? Slow down, shut up, and LISTEN

Well, that is pretty self-explanatory, simple and I must say, quite effective. Don’t you think?

Can you share a piece of advice that someone told you that has made an impact on who you are today?

My mother always told me that if I found something I loved to do, I’d never work a day in my life. 

Favourite book, movie, and food?

The Torah along with its commentaries. The Godfather, (Part 1 only!) Lisa’s world-famous spaghetti and sauce with garlic bread.

Yes, I will be asking for the recipe. Must be some sauce! 😉

Let’s unpack your quote! What the heck did you mean when you said:

“It doesn’t matter what other people think of you and you do not need to change or try to be like anyone else.  Dare to be different from the big group, if that is who you are. There is no inherent value in sameness. Be yourself and be proud of who that is.”

That quote was meant to stand strong against what I think many adolescents and teenagers feel: the need to conform, be the same, and get along. That seems to make a lot of sense for survival in high school, but it does not fit with what I now think a fulfilled life is.  Allowing yourself to stand out, be unique, different and yourself is the best advice I can give.

This is why Dr. Eisen is the amazing Dr. David. What a refreshing and appreciative perspective on life that so many could benefit from. Being able to regurgitate medical knowledge is one thing, but to stand outside yourself and slow down, shut up and listen, is another. No matter where you are on your journey.