About Dr. Unruh Meet Dr. Marie Unruh. After college, she worked in a lab doing microbiology research and initially went to medical school with the intention of becoming an infectious disease doctor. It was during her third year of medical school that she discovered a love for surgery. “I had great mentors and developed a passion for vascular surgery in particular.” As a vascular surgeon, Dr. Unruh works on the arteries and veins throughout the body to repair them. She chose to practice at Beacon because it gave her to opportunity to return to the area her mother grew up in and be closer to family. “I’m also excited to grow the vascular surgery opportunities available to patients in the community,” she adds. When it comes to her patients, Dr. Unruh believes that the human aspect of medicine matters. “I feel that I am approachable, direct, and honest,” she explains. “It is important to listen carefully and take the extra time to explain things clearly. I want my patients to know that I am a dedicated surgeon that strives to continue to improve my skills and ability to provide them with the highest quality of care.” In her own words… Who is or was the most influential person/role model in your life? My parents. What was your first job growing up? What do you remember about it? I worked at the Piccadilly Market and Grill in Wichita, KS as a hostess. I learned that people are angry when hungry. What is your favorite movie? What were your best/ worst subjects in school growing up? My favorite movie is What About Bob. My best were all science subjects. History was my worst. If you could sit down to dinner with anyone (alive or deceased) who would it be and why? Socrates. Great dinner companion. What is something most people don’t know about you? I am Mennonite.