Creative writing has given Lydia Kang, MD, something she never dreamed.
"It changed my life in a lot of ways. It gave me a second career, which has been a fantastic counterpoint to the work that I do as a physician," said the assistant professor of internal medicine in the UNMC College of Medicine.
Since joining the Seven Doctors Project — a writing workshop that pairs UNMC faculty members with local writers — in 2009, Dr. Kang’s creative endeavors have evolved from essays and poetry to young adult fiction and novels.
Dr. Kang will be reading an excerpt from her most recent nonfiction book, "Patient Zero: A Curious History of the World’s Worst Diseases," coauthored with Nate Pedersen, on April 28 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Community Engagement Center. The event is free and open to the public.
The event kicks off the inaugural publication of The Linden Review, a new biannual online journal produced by the faculty and students in the UNO English Department.
"The Linden Review’s unique focus on narratives of medical practice, caregiving, illness and environmental health will promote the value of health humanities and enhance medical professionals and the general public's understanding of the human condition, patient experience and ecological well-being," said Jody Keisner, an associate professor in the English department and editor-in-chief of The Linden Review.
"Particularly, the 'Community Voices Series' will provide a space for Nebraskans to engage with each other on topics central to health humanities. We would welcome submissions from other medical professionals, like Dr. Kang, for our journal," Keisner said.
Dr. Kang said it is important to have a creative outlet, something that many health care professionals have but often put on the back burner once they start their careers. Yet finding a creative outlet can sometimes help battle burnout, she said.
"We aren’t just doctors and nurses," Dr. Kang said. "We often have complicated identities and so many interests. It can be really healthy to explore that creative side."
Dr. Kang’s advice to anyone who is scared or intimidated at the thought of writing: Don't be.
"You don’t need permission to explore your creativity. You should just go for it."
Dr. Kang will sign copies of her book after the reading on April 28.
Congratulations Lydia
You were a great mentor during my time with you in the Seven Doctors project! Congratulations, Lydia!
This sounds interesting! Hope to attend, will books be available there to purchase?