Ken says that MD has always shown care, not only for him, but his entire family – including his three adult children who’ve forged their own paths in science and medicine.
Dr. Ken Woolfson, who offered colorectal surgery to Ontarians in the Durham Region for 35 years, fondly recalls his grandfather as an early source of career inspiration: in 1923, Dr. Jacob Woolfson graduated from the University of Toronto’s school of medicine before opening up a practice a few blocks south. He lived and started a family in an apartment above his office.
“I was very close with my grandfather and, because he was a doctor, that had an enormous influence on me,” Ken says. “I admired what he did and wanted to do the same. Around 17, I started thinking about being a surgeon, and I’m willing to admit that the TV show M*A*S*H may have had something to do with that.”
After earning a general surgery degree from Queen’s University, followed by a colorectal surgery fellowship at the Ochsner Clinic in New Orleans, Louisiana, and a year of research at the University of Toronto, Ken looked to Oshawa, Ontario, for a new home for himself, his wife Frances and their young children. When he began practising at Lakeridge Hospital in the 80s his specialty was relatively new, and some surgeons were not overly receptive to his arrival, viewing him as a competitor rather than a collaborator.
“I had some early challenges certainly, as dynamics with many of my colleagues were difficult,” he says. “Nonetheless, colorectal work has really evolved over the past few decades, becoming a subspecialty of general surgery.”
For Ken, his job is worthy of no more esteem than any other. “I’ve had a great career and I know how important it’s been for my patients but, in my perspective, I think so many jobs are important in our community, from teacher to sanitation worker,” he says.
Near the end of 2021, at the age of 65, Ken stepped away from his responsibilities at the hospital, keeping a practice open for consultations, routine checkups and colonoscopies. He also continued to be involved in some research, fondly recalling a research project from a few years ago he worked on with one of his adult children who is a pediatric gastroenterologist.
“I didn’t do much of the writing,” he admits.
Over the years, Dr. Woolfson developed into a proficient DIY investor with a valuable instinct for trading stocks. He fondly recalls how, decades ago, he quickly doubled his investment in Polaris snowmobiles, and how he took his inability to find a parking spot at Costco as a sign to snap up shares.
In the mid-90s, he came to MD Financial Management (MD) looking for advice and direction. A few years later, the dot-com bubble burst, causing investment chaos, but he was patient – and it paid off in the long run.
Dr. Woolfson says he has been supported by sharp, savvy MD Advisors* over the years. Currently he is advised by Financial Consultant, Allyson McConnell, who he credits for being responsive and willing to take the time necessary to find the best solutions for him and his family.
“She is as good as it gets,” Ken says. “Most importantly, I feel well cared for, ironic in that that is what I always want my patients to feel. Allyson is always there to help and provide the direction I’ve needed.”
She’s strategized the best way to manage the anticipated proceeds from selling his elderly mother’s condo after she moved into long-term care. Allyson also found him a reliable accountant to oversee his complex holdings. And she gave Ken – always careful with his savings – the nudge to buy the boat he’s always wanted.
“I’ve been very fortunate, even lucky with investments and have saved more than I thought I would,” he says. “It does feel great that all the work I’ve put into it has really paid off for my family.”
Ken says that MD has always shown care, not only for him, but his entire family – including his three adult children who’ve forged their own paths in science and medicine. In addition to the pediatric gastroenterologist, another grown child is an orthodontist in Jacksonville, Florida, and the third earned a PhD in botany.
Despite his success as a DIY investor, Ken has long seen the value in having an advisor on board with him. Now, as retirement approaches, Ken feels he has “too many stocks” and can’t keep a close eye on his portfolio, so he has decided to make a conservative play and transfer a large portion into RRSPs at MD.
“They’ve earned the trust at this point.”
Thinking about your own financial journey? Whether you have a quick question, need guidance on a specific issue or are looking for a second opinion, we are here to help. Let’s connect today and make sure your financial future is on the right track.
Editor's note: The above information should not be construed as specific advice and is not intended to replace independent professional guidance.
Banner image credit: Pixabay.com