Jill K Holden, MD. ILLUSTRATION BY ROBERT RISKO
Jill K. Holden, MD has the distinction of being the first woman to be elected Chief of the Medical Staff at Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital. Dr. Holden has been married for 30 years to Daniel Goon, a Senior Advisor with BP. Their daughter Kelsey Goon is a third-year medical student at Case Western Reserve University Medical School. Their son Kevin Goon is finishing his second year of teaching physics in St. Louis through Teach for America. He will be starting law school this fall. With a busy practice, the responsibilities associated with the Chief of Staff position and spending time with family and friends, Dr. Holden says she’s learned to dial back on additional responsibilities for a while. “But I look forward to returning to more involvement in our church and local charities in the future,” she adds. Here are some of this busy medical professional’s favorite lasts:
Last amazing book that changed the way you think?
I enjoy reading, largely historical fiction, having recently read Water for Elephants and The Queen’s Accomplice. The last book I read that impacted the way I think would be Atlas Shrugged.
Last food discovery in our area?
We love The Gallery in Lake Forest. The menu and the art are constantly changing and never disappoint. It’s also nice to BYOB a favorite wine.
Last milestone moment that you will never forget?
Realization that my kids are adults, happy, and are contributing meaningfully to the world around them.
Last vacation that left you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated?
Costa Rica last January with a group of friends. It was a fantastic time with attempting to surf, horseback riding, rafting, yoga on the patio, sunsets in an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, amazing people, amazing food, and a lot of laughter.
Last great piece of wellness advice that you often share with others?
Exercise. Whatever it takes to get that to be a daily habit.
