Written by Christina Crowe
On Saturday, June 18, the UAB Department of Pathology sponsored an inaugural departmental Education Retreat at Camp Fletcher in McCalla, Alabama. This casual, fun event welcomed trainees, faculty and staff to mingle and enjoy recreational activities in a low-key, outdoor setting.
Amid a heat wave, the weather cooperated, and participants enjoyed the pool as an escape from the sun. Under a covered pavilion, fans cooled those who chose to hang out and play games. The camp setting offered activities for everyone, including hiking, canoeing, and corn hole. A few individuals brought their own yard games, such as jumbo Jenga, kickball, and disc golf. Traditional and alternative options in a burger bar provided by Front Porch kept everyone fed and well hydrated in the summer weather.
A few small groups went on some gentle hikes, led by a camp staff member or on their own. Several brought their families. By the end of the day, our residents did not want to leave, and got caught up in a game of pool volleyball.
Some highlights include incoming resident Damien Roland, M.D., rising PGY-1, sinking his canoe shortly after sharing that he has never been canoeing before. Kesley Green, M.D., PGY-2 and Sarah DePew, D.O., PGY-3, CP Chief Resident, also tipped their canoe and ended up in the water. The good news: Pathologists do float! Paul Benson, M.D., Associate Professor, Anatomic Pathology, instructed a group in fly fishing, a hobby of his.
“I loved the poolside atmosphere and rowing/sinking canoes with my friends. So much fun,” said DePew.
“The department retreat was such a wonderful afternoon getting to spend time with the department leadership, faculty, and co-residents! I personally loved the venue and took advantage of the hiking trails. I enjoyed seeing everyone in a stress-free environment. I also learned how to play disc golf... and very quickly realized I am horrible at it,” said Sarah Anderson, D.O., PGY3, AP Chief Resident.
Thank you to the staff at Camp Fletcher and to residency program director Brandi McCleskey, M.D., and Monica Henderson, program coordinator, for planning and executing this fun day out for everyone who attended.
