Dr. Brian Damitz, Foot and Ankle Surgeon, shares what it's like in his daily life as a father, community member and local surgeon:
Dr. Damitz grew up in Kokomo, Indiana. After graduating high school he attended Butler University where he earned a degree in Biology and Chemistry but more importantly met his future wife Emily. After graduating from Butler he attended Rosalind Franklin University in Chicago for his medical training. After obtaining his medical degree his three year residency was completed in Long Island, New York. After his training, Dr. Damitz always knew he would end up back in Indiana. His experiences in various parts of the country only "solidified his love for his home state."
Dr. Damitz and his wife, Emily, live in Valparaiso with their two daughters Anna (5) and Ava (2). Dr. Damitz relates that he is so happy to have two daughters. He grew up in a family of all boys and has significantly enjoyed being a "girl" dad.
"They keep me in check", he states. He relates that it is tough to balance work and family. "I don't have a punch card, when my patients need me they need me. It's tough. Your kids have activities and sports and functions but you have two hours of dictations to complete. How do you balance that? I promised myself from the beginning that I would never sacrifice family life for work. But it's hard." Damitz stated.
It all started In 2014 when Damitz traveled the 791 miles back from New York after years of training to make a life with his wife and new job in the Region. He drove home with his rusted and dented Chevrolet Blazer with everything he owned stacked to the roof. He started his practice at Lakeshore Bone and Joint Institute. More importantly, he became part of the community.
"The instant I moved into this community I felt at home" Damitz stated. "At first, I just wanted to build a successful practice. But I realized how much our local community offers. To be honest, being in school and moving around made me feel like a nomad. I never felt at home anywhere. The second I pulled into my driveway that changed."
Dr. Damitz has since enjoyed being involved in our community. He helps coach local youth sports and is currently on the Porter County Board Of Zoning Appeals and the Porter County Planning Commission.
Damitz has been in practice for 8 years at Lakeshore Bone and Joint Institute. "It's an amazing responsibility to have the trust of a patient. I do not take that lightly." Damitz states. "You get to know your patients. You learn about them. They learn about you. Being a doctor is awesome."