From Hoagies to Heroics: Meet Dr. Paula Simons, the Vet Who Found Her Calling in Critical Care

In the busy corridors of veterinary medicine, where each day presents new challenges and triumphs, Dr. Paula Simons stands as a beacon of unwavering dedication and passion. Her journey from a humble start in food service to becoming a renowned critical care specialist is not just a testament to her resilience but also a narrative of following one's heart.

"I knew early on that general practice was not for me," Dr. Simons reflects, her eyes glinting with determination. "But it wasn't until internship that I found my love for critical care and was determined to become a criticalist."

The path to her calling wasn't conventional. Dr. Simons reminisces about her first job at Slack's Hoagie Shack, where she earned her inaugural dollar. Yet, it was in the chaotic rhythms of emergency rooms and critical care units where she found her true purpose.

"After a stressful day," she shares with a smile, "I jam out to Disney music or tunes from my favorite musicals. It's my way of unwinding and finding solace amidst the chaos."

Rooted deeply in her upbringing, Dr. Simons credits her father as her ultimate hero. Raised as a single parent, he provided unwavering support and love, shaping her into the compassionate individual she is today.

But it was an adventure halfway across the world that truly transformed her perspective. Traveling to Southeast Asia for veterinary volunteer work, she spent two months backpacking and offering her expertise in five different countries. "It was eye-opening," she recalls, "to see the discrepancies in veterinary care and the resilience of communities in the face of adversity."

As a specialist in veterinary emergency and critical care, Dr. Simons brings not only her expertise but also her heart to the table. Trauma, sepsis, critical care nutrition, and analgesic management are not just areas of professional interest but fields where she strives to make a tangible difference.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Dr. Simons finds joy in simple pleasures. Yoga, hiking, photography, and nurturing her 'jungle' of houseplants provide moments of respite from the demanding nature of her work. And let's not forget her two spoiled rotten domestic shorthair cats, Moo and Kal, who undoubtedly add a dash of mischief to her life.

Dr. Paula Simons' story is more than just a career trajectory; it's a narrative of passion, perseverance, and the profound impact one individual can make in the lives of both animals and humans alike. As she continues to push boundaries and redefine standards, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring veterinarians and compassionate souls everywhere.