by Dr. Carla Pugh, Past-President of The Society of Black Academic Surgeons
In today’s climate, where social issues often leave us feeling drained, maintaining a sense of balance can be a challenge. When asked how the current climate is affecting them, a few SBAS leaders shared their thoughts. Dr. Carla Pugh, Past-President of SBAS started the conversation by noting that self-care is a must and invited her fellow SBAS colleagues to share a few examples.
Dr. Adrienne Cobb shared her deep love for plants, particularly her two Monstera deliciosa. Caring for her plants in Wisconsin’s tough climate requires patience and strategic effort, which Adrienne has mastered. Her enthusiasm for plant care not only connects her to nature but also provides a calming space in her life. It’s clear that nurturing something to grow brings a sense of fulfillment and peace.
“Taking care of my plants has become a meditation of sorts,” she said.
Dr. Cobb’s passion for baking also emerged as a form of self-care. She explained how baking had been a therapeutic outlet during stressful times in her life including her studies for Step One.
“Baking allows me to set it and forget it” she shared.
Whether it’s a chocolate whiskey bundt cake or a classic Southern pound cake, baking is a way to share joy and creativity with those around her.
Dr. Crystal Johnson-Mann brought an additional perspective, drawing strength from her family life and her role as a coach. Coaching her eldest son, who is a natural athlete, has been an especially meaningful way for her to balance her personal goals with the needs of her family. Dr. Johnson-Mann expressed the importance of teaching her children how to deal with perfectionism, a trait she has struggled with herself. She has learned that while wellness is vital, it can sometimes take a backseat to life’s responsibilities, especially when her husband travels for work. Nonetheless, she finds joy in her children’s growth and their shared love for sports.
Finding community, especially in times when life feels overwhelming, was a key topic. Dr. Cobb shared how she found a sense of belonging in a grant-writing circle, and Dr. Johnson-Mann reflected on rejoining her sorority’s graduate chapter despite her busy schedule. Both found strength in these communities, which provided a sense of sisterhood and support, underscoring the importance of nurturing relationships with like-minded individuals.
The conversation ended with an inspiring commitment to prioritizing wellness, balance, and joy in everyday life. By focusing on what nourishes them—whether it’s tending to plants, baking, family activities, or community—they reminded themselves that it’s possible to create a life where personal passions and self-care coexist, even in the busiest of times. Their discussion was a reminder that, amidst the chaos, it’s essential to look after ourselves, lean into our passions, and cherish the communities that sustain us.
As they continue on their journeys, one thing is clear: no matter how hectic life gets, it’s possible to cultivate balance and wellness through meaningful connections, creativity, and self-care.
Adrienne Cobb, M.D., MS
Dr. Adrienne Cobb is a native of Indianapolis and graduated from Lawrence North High School. She then went on to complete her undergraduate studies at DePauw University majoring in Biochemistry and Spanish. She had long set her sights on a career in medicine and matriculated to Indiana University School of Medicine. She completed a residency in General Surgery at Loyola University Medical Center in Chicago, IL. During residency she developed a passion for breast cancer care. She completed her Breast Surgical Oncology Fellowship at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX. Dr. Cobb is now Assistant Professor of Surgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin.
Crystal N Johnson-Mann, MD, MPH, FACS, FASMBS
Dr Crystal Johnson-Mann was born in a small town in South Carolina. She went to University of South Carolina in Columbia for her undergraduate training and played on the varsity volleyball team. Dr. Johnson-Mann is a proud graduate of the MUSC College of Medicine and General Surgery Residency Program. She completed a minimally invasive surgery fellowship at the University of Virginia Health System, after her surgical residency at MUSC. She is an Assistant Professor of Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery at UF Health Bariatric Surgery Center – Shands Hospital and is a passionate health disparities advocate.
Carla M. Pugh, MD, PhD, FACS, MAMSE
Dr Carla Pugh was born in Berkeley California and went to the University of California at Berkeley for her undergraduate degree in Neuroscience. She then went to Howard University for medical school and stayed at Howard for her surgical residency. Dr. Pugh then went to Stanford University and obtained a PhD in education and technology. Currently, Dr Pugh is the Thomas Krummel Professor of Surgery at Stanford, Vice-Chair of Innovation and Director of the Technology Enabled Clinical Improvement Center. Her clinical specialty is Acute Care Surgery.