When it comes to versatile careers in the field of medicine, not many professionals can match Dr. David Hepburn. With over three decades of experience, he had a chance to do things like utilize his medical talents in the military, the Olympics, private practice, and even certain sporting teams. The military experience refers back to his days in the Persian Gulf War where he was a recruited physician. After finishing this part of his career, he had an opportunity to go to the 1994 Commonwealth Games as well as the 1996 Olympics. Finally, Dr. David Hepburn is also known as the main physician of the Canadian National Rugby team for juniors. Hence why trying to find a doctor who experienced all of the aforementioned might be practically impossible. 


Are there any unique challenges in your industry?

I would definitely consider many of them to be unique. I do, however, recognize that I am fairly biased since this is my industry. So, although something may seem quite unique to me, it could be completely normal for another person that has a different background and experience. A great example would be the never-ending research that doctors do whenever they are pursuing new treatment methods. Well, I consider the research to be a very unique part of my profession that differentiates it from most other career choices. Someone who works as a chemical engineering, however, would probably laugh at this statement given that thorough research is likely a large part of what they do. 


Do you have any particular challenges that you personally address?

My main challenge usually revolves around stress. I struggle with a lot of negative stress that raises my anxiety levels and diminishes my productivity. For those unfamiliar, this is what happens when you are unable to fully cope with a certain situation. In the long-run, the continuous onset of distress can have an adverse effect on your mental health and even lead to certain physical problems. Fortunately, my case is nowhere near as severe as it used to be since I have learned how to redirect a lot of my stress and turn it into eustress. This is what is known as the so-called “positive anxiety” that can actually increase your capableness. 


Have you ever been to Miami?

I have probably been to Miami more times that I have been to certain parts of British Columbia. The reason why this is quite outlandish is that I actually reside in British Columbia! 


Was it a business or pleasure trip?

It was usually a pleasure trip as I mostly go to exotic places like Miami when I can leave work for a few days and dedicate my time to nothing but resting. Of course, I took advantage of the opportunity to explore the city and see why many visitors to the area never stop bragging about it. I have to admit, after seeing how beautiful and pleasant Miami can be during the warm summer months, I have become one of those individuals who suggest it to every person that is interested in travel. 


Would you come back?

Absolutely! In fact, I am probably going to Miami in a few weeks here once the summer officially begins. I like waiting for the last week of July or the first week of August. The reason why is that this is the time when there is a shift of tourists. So, if you plan everything perfectly and get lucky, you might actually come to the city when it is not entirely packed with curious visitors. And even when there are thousands of people who come to Miami to relax like me, there are enough things to do to where you will never really notice any overcrowding. The key to making the most of your trip is to do some detailed planning beforehand and be prepared for unexpected circumstances to arise. 


Where do you see yourself or your business in 5 years?

Well, I cannot answer that question with 100-percent certainty. In fact, I cannot even provide a partial answer as my career thus far has been extremely unpredictable. I never anticipated to go to the military as soon as my medical training was over, yet it somehow happened. The same goes for me being invited to work at the Olympics two decades ago. At this point, I have learned to expect the unexpected and remain open to possibilities so that I can still have some excitement. The only thing that I can vouch is the fact that I will still be involved with medicine either through helping my long-term patients or conducting my career research on conditions like cancer or cannabis.