Courtney Baechler, MD

Hometown: Apple Valley, MN.

My practice philosophy: I feel grateful for my medical education. It is a true privilege to partner with patients, in particular in heart care, when patients often feel vulnerable and scared.

I am passionate about: Prevention! There is so much power here. We can’t control everything, but we have a lot of ability to impact our heart outcomes.

I  decided to become a provider: When I was in 8th grade. A tremendous science teacher let us know about the field.

Something I've learned from my patients is: Patients know best! The amount of intuition that patients can give about their own bodies is amazing!

One of the challenges of this career is: Medicine keeps me humble. It is truly an art and we are constantly learning more. I am reminded that we are all individuals and truly one size doesn’t fit all.

If I wasn't a provider I'd be: A barista in a coffee shop in a small town in Italy. It would be fun to love the art of coffee drinks and there is nothing quite like the feeling of a perfect coffee drink!

My personal health goal is: To live in the present. Each day can have moments of incredible joy.

The best thing I've done for my health is: Sleep. Above all get good quality sleep and enough of it. You need it to stay healthy and decrease your risk of chronic disease including vascular disease.

I'm most proud of: My children. My son is 9 and my daughter died when she was 7. She would be 12. My son has more resilience in his body than anyone I know!

A personal achievement: Surviving and thriving after the death of a child. Learning how to find joy after a tragedy like this is something I never would have believed is possible. Sophia has taught me so much.