The UAB Department of Neurosurgery is spotlighting staff to focus on the importance of hobbies for stress relief, wellness and self-care.
The goal of the series is to connect individuals across the department by highlighting their hobbies as they relate to mental, physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, environmental, social and financial wellness.
 
Michel Thomas is the quality outcomes analyst for the UAB Departments of Neurosurgery, Orthopaedic Surgery and Otolaryngology. 
 
He graduated from UAB with an undergraduate degree in psychology and a Master of Science in Health Informatics – Data Analytics.
 
“My journey at UAB began in June 2003, and I've spent over 12 rewarding years with the Department of Neurosurgery,” said Thomas. 

What hobby do you currently focus on in your downtime?   
Away from the professional sphere, my recent years have been characterized by an intense focus on fitness. Nashville, with its diverse running paths and parks, is an ideal location for me to pursue this passion. I'm proud to say that I've managed to shed 100 pounds, currently weighing in at around 190 lbs. I have also put a focus on daily meditation and journaling as well in focusing on my mental wellbeing.
 
Beyond fitness, my hobbies extend to the realm of technology, with a particular interest in artificial intelligence and machine learning. I believe the rapid advancements in these fields, such as the development of ChatGPT, will drastically influence our lives and work in the coming years. 
 
I am also excited about exploring the live music scene here in Nashville and checking out the numerous trivia nights across the city. You might even find me learning how to line dance in the very near future as well.

What inspired you to explore this hobby?
My interest in fitness was spurred by several personal health challenges, including weight struggles, a history of blood clots and a renal cell carcinoma diagnosis in early 2020.
 
In November 2022, I transitioned to a fully remote work setup, and as of May 1, 2023, I've been operating from Nashville, Tennessee. Here, I'm accompanied by my loyal sidekick, Cash, an 8-year-old English Bulldog who is always by my side. My decision to relocate to Nashville was driven by a desire to focus on my overall wellness. I'm grateful for the support and flexibility provided by my department and the university, allowing me to continue my career from this new locale. 

Have you noticed a change in your well-being since beginning this hobby and how does that translate into your work?  
I’ve felt a sense of joy and excitement since diving into more of my creative and active hobbies. It’s easy to get caught into the routine of life and, by investing time into these hobbies, it has kept the door to experiences open. These pursuits have encouraged me to continue being curious, persistent and creative, which has helped me be a good problem-solver and “doer” in my role at work.

What are you most proud of?  
The achievement I'm most proud of in my fitness journey is hitting the 100-pound weight loss milestone. This accomplishment has not only improved my physical health, but has also boosted my confidence and mental wellbeing, enabling me to perform my duties at work with greater enthusiasm and vigor.
 
My dog has been a constant source of joy and companionship. As a dog dad, nurturing Cash has significantly contributed to my wellbeing. It has taught me patience, empathy, and the value of unconditional love, qualities that I try to bring into my work every day. The adventures with Cash have been plentiful, and the journey continues.