The Supporting Women of WUDA (WashU Medicine Department of Anesthesiology) group hosted its fourth annual retreat on Saturday, April 11, at the Whittemore House on WashU’s Danforth Campus. Colleagues from across the department gathered for a morning of connection over breakfast, followed by programming focused on reflection and practical application.
The highlight of the day was the keynote address from Dr. Sariya Saabye, titled “Will It Help You Beat the Reaper?” An international speaker, bestselling author, minimalist strategist, barefoot ultramarathoner, acrobat, and Doctor of Physical Therapy, Dr. Saabye delivered a powerful and thought-provoking message. Rather than offering more tools or adding to already full to-do lists, she introduced a simple yet transformative question to help participants cut through feeling overwhelmed and perfectionism—without sacrificing ambition or high standards. Her talk encouraged attendees to evaluate which demands truly matter, identify what quietly drains energy, and step away from expectations they never intentionally chose.
Following the keynote, participants had the opportunity to dive deeper into these concepts through four breakout sessions focused on applying minimalism in different areas of life: professional, emotional, physical, and relational. These sessions provided space for reflection, discussion, and practical strategies that attendees could immediately begin incorporating into their daily routines.
“Dr. Saabye’s talk was a gift. Her perspective was eye-opening and offered practical ways to make meaningful, actionable change in my daily life,” said Maggie Bradley, CRNA.
Throughout the morning, attendees also participated in a clothing swap and book exchange. The clothing swap invited attendees to bring gently used professional attire and exchange items for something new-to-them, with all remaining pieces donated to support women in the St. Louis community. Similarly, the book swap encouraged participants to share and discover new reads, with leftover books distributed to department libraries across campus.
From meaningful conversations to actionable insights, this year’s retreat created space for participants to pause, refocus, and support one another—leaving attendees energized and equipped to move forward with greater clarity and intention.
Learn more about the Supporting Women of WUDA group and how you can get involved.
