S3E8: Dr. Patricia Bortoluzzi, on Raising a Surgeon – A Mother-Daughter Special

This mother-daughter special features Dr. Patricia Bortoluzzi, a craniofacial plastic surgeon in Montreal, and her daughter, Alex Speak, who just so happens to be our Producer here at WISER. In this episode, they discuss their roots in surgery, their mother-daughter dynamic, and the struggles in their respective journeys.

Dr. Bortoluzzi, a first-generation Canadian of Italian descent, is past-Program Director of Plastic Surgery at the University of Montreal, past-president of the Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons, and current Director of the Craniofacial Clinic at the University of Montreal. She is candid in telling her experiences with culture shock, courage, and grief. 

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While the topic of motherhood is familiar to the WISER Podcast, Alex’s perspective fills a much-needed gap in the discussion, by delving into what it’s like to be the child of a surgeon:

“I think it takes understanding on both perspectives, and I think a lot of that understanding comes in hindsight. She followed her dreams, and that – especially in my 20’s – has given me permission to follow mine.”  

Dr. Bortoluzzi’s story is imbued with both humor and lessons learned, the former of which is apparent in the telling of how her “Uncle Guido” captured the attention of her Plastics interviewers. She leaves listeners with the following guidance:

“Enjoy the journey. And whatever you do – do it well. If you do it well, doors open and you’ll be gratified.”