Christine Wagner, MD

Hometown: Belle Plaine, MN

Why I became a physician: My passion for medicine began when I was young. Growing up I had the opportunity to care for a close family member that had various medical needs. This lead me to pursue a job working as a nursing assistant during high school; only strengthening my passion to care for individuals with illness and disease.  Later, I went to become a registered nurse, and I realized the more I learned, the more I wanted to learn. All of my clinical experiences solidified my decision and commitment to medicine and becoming a physician.  

Fun fact about myself: I was raised on a third-generation apply farm in southern Minnesota. My grandfather started the business in the 1950’s. Growing up I spent my summers and weekends helping out at the store and in the orchards. In my teens, our family lost our apple crop to hail and frost a few seasons. To offset losses, we started selling other goods. Trial & error lead us to nostalgic candy. Now in addition to apples, we sell thousands of candies from all over the world. I still enjoy finding new products and working at the family store-Minnesota’s largest candy store. 

How I like to spend my free time: I enjoy anything from hiking and camping to snowshoeing or scuba diving. I find satisfaction in fitness activities, primarily focused on community based exercise classes and running. When I am not working, studying, or taking advantage of the outdoors, you will find me exploring the country. Whether it be an Amtrak train trip through the Rocky Mountains, or a mini road to a new restaurant across the state.