“I had kidney cancer three years ago. Being a patient transforms how
you think about your profession. When I was lying in that bed, it
really put into perspective what we as health care providers do. ...
After that experience, I can’t even call it a profession anymore; it’s
more of a calling.”
– Dr. Brad Lembcke
her to breakfast, not realizing she was not a
morning person. She said yes, and we’ve been
married since 2000 and have three amazing
kids, Thomas (13), Rebecca (11) and Sam (9).
What’s something about you that would
surprise people?
I had kidney cancer three years ago. Being a
patient transforms how you think about our profession. When I was lying in that bed – it really
put into perspective what we as health care providers do. I had thought I was invincible until
then and it has made me appreciate everything
in life so much more; it really does put into perspective what’s truly important. After that experience, I can’t even call it a profession anymore;
it’s more of a calling.
Who are your heroes?
My parents. My dad was the typical engineer,
very logical but put family first. He worked
harder than anyone I’ve ever known and was a
true family leader. He provided great counsel to
my siblings and me over the years, and we never
questioned his love and support. He passed away
about 10 years ago and we all miss him dearly –
he left a great legacy.
My mom grew up as a cotton farmer’s daughter and was the perfect mom, spouse and success
story in her life. She was the glue that held our
family together and really drove home the
importance of family and loyalty. She was
no-nonsense but you never doubted how much
she loved you.
Professionally, Dr. Dan Foster at Parkland is
a hero in medicine and was a true mentor to me.
I hope that I am able to emulate the way he was
in his clinical practice.
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