Story of Support & Success: A Senior Resident Spotlight
This Women’s History Month, we are honoring Joan Suriano, in our senior resident spotlight. Joan is a retired pediatrician whose journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of breaking barriers.
Joan Suriano, also known as Joan H. Kurtz MD, carved a remarkable path in medicine, spanning decades and witnessing a profound shift in how women are viewed in society. From her early days in a small town in New York to her impactful career in Arizona, her story is one of unwavering dedication.
Overcoming Obstacles, Shattering Expectations
Joan’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. She recalls a time when dreams of becoming a doctor were met with suggestions of a more “suitable” career as a nurse. Even while pursuing pre-med studies, the stark reality of gender disparity was evident. “It was an unwritten law that about 10% of every medical school class would be female,” she shared. She considered herself “one of the lucky 13” in her NYU class of 130.
The inequities continued during her residency. She spoke on the on-call room for male residents, consisting of beds, a bathroom, a TV, and a microwave. While she and the other female residents used the broom closet as their on-call room. She goes on to say “I had a cot, a desk, and a telephone”. In the 1980s Joan’s family moved to AZ. After moving here, she practiced pediatrics for Cigna in the Paradise Valley office for 19 years. She was also a pediatrician for the Thomas Pappa’s School for Homeless Children, which has since closed. Since moving to PebbleCreek in 2006, and moving into Robson Reserve at PebbleCreek, she’s continued helping others by volunteering for the Kare Bears, an organization of PebbleCreek resident volunteers who help other residents.
A Legacy of Progress
Joan has seen a significant positive shift in how women are viewed in medicine and society. When asked her thoughts on if it was a good shift or bad shift of perspective on women, “In most cases, good,” she affirms. “More women are accepted into medicine, which is good.” She notes the change from professors who openly expressed their disapproval of female students to the current acceptance of women doctors as a norm. “I think it’s also been accepted that women are more adept at multitasking, and that’s one of the reasons we’re accepted more. I think we still have a long way to go though.”
Pride in Accomplishments
When talking with Joan about being in our senior resident spotlight, we asked about her proudest accomplishments. Joan humbly lists three:
“The first is raising three children while in private pediatric practice. My husband and I had three children in five years. I was on call every second night and every second weekend. My husband was a “Mister Mom” before the term was invented. After 59 years of marriage, he unfortunately passed away two months before moving into Robson Reserve at PebbleCreek. I don’t think I could have done it without him. The second is I was the first female president of the Putnam County Medical Society in the 1970s. And third, I think I’ve been a role model for my daughter, who’s a family practice doctor, and my granddaughter, who’s a physician’s assistant.”
Words of Wisdom: Never Give Up on Your Dreams
Joan’s most important piece of advice is a powerful message to young women: “Never to give up on your dreams. Don’t let anyone convince you that you can’t do it. You will find a way.” She emphasizes the importance of resourcefulness and determination. She shared her own experience of overcoming financial obstacles to pursue her medical education. “I think there is a glass ceiling when it comes to women, but you have to remember: it’s only glass and someone’s going to break it.”
Her message to young women embarking on their careers is equally impactful: “Don’t be discouraged. Ask for the opinions of people who you value, and don’t let anyone talk you out of something if you’ve made up your mind.” She underscores the importance of support systems, both personally and professionally, recognizing that success often requires collaboration and understanding.
About Robson Reserve at PebbleCreek
At Robson Reserve at PebbleCreek, we are proud to celebrate Joan in our senior resident spotlight. Joan Suriano’s journey, filled with unwavering determination and groundbreaking achievements, is a shining example of the extraordinary lives that enrich our community. Her story reminds us of the power of resilience, breaking barriers, and the impact of a life well-lived. We are proud to share her experiences and to recognize all the women who make Robson Reserve a vibrant and inspiring place to call home. Ready to make our senior retirement community your new home? Contact us today for more information.
