They say events that happen in a person’s childhood – even seemingly insignificant ones – can directly impact how that person feels and acts as an adult.
For our newest child psychiatrist, Dr. Susan Neilan, perhaps growing up with 3 older brothers taught her how to connect with others. Or, maybe the goodness of her Dad’s grilled cheese sandwiches fueled her ambition.
Whatever the events were that led her to pursue a career in child psychiatry, we’re happy to have her at Akron Children’s Hospital and so are our patients.
Grew up in: Warren, Ohio
Family: Married to husband, Michael, with dog, Grantley, and cat, Ocho.
Favorite childhood toy: My baseball glove. I played a lot of softball growing up.
Name 1 thing you miss about being a kid: Trick or Treating!
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? My mom always tells the story of when I was little she showed me a family picture and asked if I could point out the 3 doctors in it. I said there were 4 doctors in the photo and pointed out all of them, including myself. So, I guess I’ve always known I wanted to be a doctor.
Favorite movie of all time: Home Alone
Favorite food: Grilled cheese sandwich
First concert: I’m embarrassed to admit this, but it was NSync. They were good at the time.
First paying job: When I was 12 I had a newspaper route for the Warren Tribune. I rode my bike to deliver papers until the weather got bad and then my older brothers, who could drive, helped me out.
Quote to live by: A set back sets you up for a come back.
Who do you most admire and why? My parents. My dad has Parkinson’s disease and he’s been dealing with it for years. My mom has always been by his side. They’ve taught me to always move forward even on a bad day.
If you could invite anyone to dinner, who would it be? Donald Trump. Although I may get offended and leave early, I’m curious to see what he’s like outside the spotlight.
Something most people don’t know about you: When I was in second grade I won a trip to Disney World from Burger King. My mom thought it was a hoax and threw out 2 of the mailers with the details. When we got our third and final notice she called to see if we really won…and we did!
What is your idea of happiness? Knowing that I tried my best at something.
Something you’ve always wanted to do: Skydive
Greatest indulgence: At the moment, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Klondike® Bars
Pet peeves: When people don’t use their turn signal.
Greatest achievement: Becoming a child psychiatrist.
Favorite music: Coldplay, Bastille, Of Monsters and Men and Vance Joy
What couldn’t you live without? Family and friends.
Traits you value in a colleague: Someone who is open minded and supportive.
Special hobby or interest: Going to concerts. I like all genres of music.
Why did you choose to come to Akron Children’s? I’ve lived in Akron since I was 18. I went to medical school in the area and did my residency rotation here. Children’s feels like home to me. The people who work here are very warm, too, which creates a supportive work environment and I love being a part of it.
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