Brian C Joondeph
Marital Status:
married
Children? If so, how many?
Yes, three
Grandchildren? If so, how many?
God no! Don't rush me!
Education:
AB Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
MD Northwestern University, Chicago
Internship - Cook County Hospital, Chicago
Residency in Ophthalmology - Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, Chicago
Fellowship in Retina - Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miami
Occupation:
Retinal Surgeon
Volunteer and Professional Activities:
Lots of professional societies
Current hobbies and interests:
Golf, skiing, fitness, reading, computers/gadgets
What percentage of your hair is visibly gray (is this a trick question?)
less than 1%
If you had one year free of all responsibility and unlimited funds, what would you do?
Travel the world, every continent, not necessarily every country, see all the wonders of the world.
What are the most rewarding things that you have done in your life?
1. Became self sufficient
2. Created a wonderful family
3. Left a secure and lucrative job to move my family overseas for a few years for the experience of living in another country
What rewarding things do you plan to do in your life?
1. My professional growth and success
2. Raise my kids to the point where they are self sufficient and settled
What are your favorite non-family related things to do in your free time?
Read a good book, figure out something on the computer for myself after getting lousy advice from tech support, play a decent round of golf (I didn't say great, more like more pars than bogies), have a good workout.
How would you best describe your idea of "being successful?"
Finding something you enjoy doing, doing it exceptionally well, touching lives around you in a positive way and feeling proud of what you are doing.
What are your most vivid memories of your days in Ridgewood?
Summers in Graydon Pool, Little League baseball, the July 4th parade and fireworks, my father's pharmacy in town, working at the Warner Theater, Drapkins and the other stores in Ridgewood Ave such as the Cheese Shop, Sealfons (waiting bored while my mother shopped), the old 5 & 10 (pre high school days), the Duck Pond, braving life and limb crossing Route 17 on foot (much against my mother's wishes), Friday night basketball at the YMCA.
What achievement or activity are you most proud of in your life?
Having the courage to pick up my family and move to Auckland, New Zealand for a few years for the experience of living in another country. What a great time we had!
What single piece of wisdom would you like to leave for the next generation?
Life is a mystery to be lived, not a problem to be solved.
How have you changed since high school?
I've grown up.