We are so excited to bring you our first Meet-A-Mom Monday of the year! Meet an accomplished doctor mom of Monmouth County, Dr. Dena Arumugam. Dena grew up in northern New York, but she crossed the bridge and has been a resident of New Jersey for the majority of the past ten years. She currently resides in Holmdel with her husband and three beautiful kids. Dena is a board-certified general surgeon with Jersey Shore Advanced Surgical Associates in Neptune, and takes care of patients with gallbladder problems, hernias, soft tissue masses and intestinal diseases. She specializes in Bariatric (weight loss) surgery, using minimally invasive techniques to provide high quality and compassionate care to her patients. In her free time, Dena loves doing local activities with her children. Read more to find our more about Dena and what she loves about Monmouth County.
Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town?
I grew up in Westchester County, New York but have been living in New Jersey for the majority of the past ten years. I have been living in Holmdel for almost 4 years.
Child(ren) and Age(s)?
Haley (6), Gabriel (4), Sienna (1.5)
One thing people would be surprised to know about you…
I taught myself how to sew clothes when I was in elementary school. I have always loved fashion and being creative and this was a great way to combine the two!
Anyone special you’d like to thank for helping you through parenthood?
My husband is a great dad and husband. He has always been our rock during my surgical training, which required long days and occasionally long periods away from my family. My siblings, parents and in-laws have always been available to give us a hand and spend cherished time with our children too.
Favorite things to do with your kids?
I love being outdoors with my kids. We enjoy visiting local parks, farms, beaches, and going fruit picking during the warmer months. We also like to visit the animals at the aquarium and the zoo.
Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor, or in the corporate world? Please share!
I am involved in growing my surgical practice, Jersey Shore Advanced Surgical Associates. I am trained as a general surgeon and bariatric (weight loss) surgeon. My main focus is on diseases of the gallbladder, intestine, hernias and soft tissue. My true passion is caring for patients with extra weight who strive for a healthier lifestyle. I try to educate the community on the health benefits of weight loss surgery through monthly seminars that are hosted by Jersey Shore University Medical Center.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
This community is excellent at providing local activities for my family to participate in, to learn more about our community and everything it has to offer. Reading about other moms who are balancing life and business is a great reminder that we are all going through this together! It’s not always easy but it’s always worth it!
What is your favorite restaurant in Monmouth County?
My husband and I love going to 618 in Freehold. The ambiance and the food are outstanding! A close second (when our kids join the party :), is Burger Bros in Marlboro.
What is your favorite activity to do with your child(ren) in Monmouth County?
We love the parks in Monmouth County– Holmdel Park, Thompson Park and Dorbrook Park are some of our favorites. We also like to visit the animals at Oak Hill Farms.
What are your Mom Goals?
My goals are like other moms- finding balance between being a good mother and good professional. My career and my patients are very important to me and I strive to be an excellent surgeon for them, as I know this takes a lot of trust on their part. At the same time, I want my children to know I will always love and be there for them. I want them to be proud of me for being able to do both.