Natasha Rueth, MD

I am a board-certified surgical oncologist with professional interests in breast cancer, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, sarcoma and skin cancer.

Practice philosophy: I think the most important thing I can do as a cancer doctor is be honest with my patients about their diagnosis, prognosis and treatment options. I believe I am taking this journey with my patients and strive to walk alongside them every step of the way. I feel very strongly about doing the right treatment for the right person at the right time, taking into account each patient's perspective on life and values.

Hometown: Neillsville, Wisconsin

If I wasn't a provider, I would be a philanthropist! I think I would really good at distributing people's money.

Something I have learned from my patients is that we are all much stronger than we give ourselves credit for.

One of the challenges of this career that I enjoy is it is such an honor to be part of a patient's care team as they go through one of the scariest moments of their lives. Hearing the word "cancer" is alarming. I enjoy the opportunity to sit down with patients and their families, to provide education, to share my passion and knowledge, and to work together to develop treatment plans. I find it such an honor when patients tell me that I've put their mind at ease.

What is one of your personal achievements? When I turned 30, I set a goal to celebrate my birthday abroad every year. It gives me something to look forward to, keeps my sense of adventure alive, and I've been to some great places. I never see my birthday as getting older, just an opportunity to have a new adventure!

• Named a Top Doctor Rising Star in Mpls. St. Paul Magazine: 2017, 2018