“Socio-behavioral comorbidities have historically been overlooked in both research and practice when considering patient health and wellness throughout the perioperative period of surgery. It is important to advocate for greater focus on these factors, grapple with disparities in patient outcomes, and pursue better health equity. I am very thankful to be able to learn about and contribute to the SASSY lab’s endeavor to address knowledge gaps and to improve patient well-being through quantitative and qualitative research."