"They say that those who can't do - teach. I disagree with this sentiment. I wholeheartedly believe that as a physician, I need to be my healthiest, perform research, and be the benchmark when it comes to personal health. One example is if a patient comes to a general practitioner because they want tools, resources, and support to quit smoking. How would the patient feel if, during that visit, the GP smelled like cigarette smoke? Another reason that I feel a responsibility to be a healthy role model is that the healthier I am, the longer I will be able to practice medicine and help others. The fewer sick days I have, the better I can do my job. And, the more energy I feel from living a healthy lifestyle, the more people I will be able to influence positively."