As our Office Manager, Ora works hard to ensure day-to-day operations run smoothly. Read on to learn more about her perspective on the practice, her summer activities of choice, and more.
Hi, Ora! Can you tell us more about your background in engineering?
When I was in high school, I asked my Dad what I needed to go to school for to be able to build a bridge. He said I needed to be a Civil Engineer. I took all the courses necessary in high school, applied to engineering and four years later graduated with honours. I worked as a structural consultant for about a year and a half, then moved on to a construction company as a project manager. In May 2015, my dream came true and I managed the construction of a bridge over the 407. It is very rewarding to drive on the Anderson Street overpass in Whitby, or under it when we drive on the 407. There were several other projects after this but once that dream was completed, I was ready to move onto the next one….
What’s it like working with Dr. Somogyi as both a spouse and colleague?
We have both always believed that the success of the practice was based on the hard work of both of us. In the office we are coworkers, part of a fabulous team. Any normal team of coworkers talks ‘around the water cooler’ and so do we. At home, life comes into the mix. We support and complement each other as colleagues running a business as well as spouses and parents running a home.
Since meeting Dr. Somogyi and becoming involved in the practice, has your perspective on plastic surgery changed?
We met in senior kindergarten…so yes. Having said that, whenever anyone asked Ron what he wanted to be when he grew up he answered “micro-surgeon”. His goals and dreams to be a Plastic Surgeon specializing in breast reconstruction was something I knew about from the get go. Medical school, residency, fellowship…I bought into the long haul…it was not a surprise.
But to answer your question…when I grew up plastic surgery was “fake”. But once you meet the right surgeon and they understand your vision of “wanting to be the best version of yourself,” you realize that it is not fake, it is getting the help you need to fulfill that vision.
What do you think sets the practice apart?
We care like no other practice. We answer patients’ questions patiently and quickly every step of the way; whether they are reaching out for the first time just to inquire, before and after their first consultation, leading up to their surgery date, and especially after their surgery. Dr. Somogyi, Dr. Jalil, and the rest of the team are always available. They care about patient comfort and outcomes as if each and every patient was part of their family. It is inspiring to see.
You’re known for supplying delicious treats – how did you get into cooking, and what’s your favourite thing to make?
I grew up with home-cooked meals. We never had takeout in the house. Cooking was important to me but I also wanted it to be interesting and fun. When Ron and I and the family were in Melbourne for our year in fellowship, I finally had the time to pursue cooking as a passion and hobby and not only as a necessity. My favourite thing to make is smoked Texas Style Brisket. The pride I get when I slice through the tender meat and watch everyone savour over it is something I can do over and over again.
What’s your favourite skincare product?
I love my SkinMedica Total Defense and Repair Tinted SPF 34. It is so smooth to put on. It is a moisturizer which is not heavy and feels great all day. I don’t wear makeup, so the tint really evens my skin tone and the SPF protection is a great added bonus.
What’s one thing you’re looking forward to right now?
My kids going back to school! I just hope we don’t have to go back to online school again.
What’s your favourite way to spend a summer day?
Coffee in the backyard, riding bikes with the kids, ending at Menchie’s and finishing off the day with a BBQ with friends.
