Dr. Kristin Bristow: Karen Kowalske Outstanding PM&R Undergraduate Award
A family member born with a rare genetic condition inspired Dr. Kristin Bristow’s career trajectory. The younger cousin could never walk, talk, or feed herself, yet her ability to accomplish the unimaginable planted a seed. Dr. Bristow knew then that she wanted to be a doctor working with patients like her cousin, helping them through the specialty of physical medicine and rehabilitation, or PM&R.
What this award means: “This award means so much to me because working with the PM&R Department over the last four years has really shaped me into the person I am today. They have fueled my desire to become a physiatrist and have helped me along that pursuit.”
Mentor comment: “Kristin is everything you want someone going into PM&R to be – optimistic, compassionate, dedicated to her patients, smart, and an effective leader. She always shows initiative to learn and is always attentive to helping those around her, including her fellow students. She is going to be an excellent physiatrist!” – Dr. Kelly Scott, Professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Background and family: “I am originally from Stephenville, Texas. I went to Abilene Christian University for undergrad before starting medical school at UT Southwestern. My husband, Sterling, and I have been married for almost four years. We have a 6-month-old son and a 5-year-old golden retriever.”
What led to your career path: “My younger cousin was born with a rare genetic condition. Watching her defy the odds and accomplish things no one thought she would ever be able to achieve was incredibly inspiring. I knew I wanted to become a doctor to work with patients like my cousin, and when I learned about physical medicine and rehabilitation, it was evident that it was the field for me.”
UTSW activities: “I was President of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Student Interest Group, President and founder of Walk with a Future Doc at UTSW, a member of the Preventive and Lifestyle Medicine Student Interest Group, a volunteer with the Helping Augment Neonatal Development Group, and concussion booth coordinator for United to Serve’s Carnaval de Salud.”
Surprising fact: “I love learning about all things space, and missions on the International Space Station.”
Future plans: “I don’t know what my career will look like after finishing my PM&R residency. Right now, I’m interested in pursuing pediatric rehabilitation or sports medicine.”
About the award: Started in 2011, the award is named in honor of the Department’s past Chair, Dr. Kowalske. The recipient receives a plaque and a $250 gift certificate.