March 10, 2025

Meet Lauren Baumer

Athletic Trainer 

Where are you from?

Born and raised in STL. The neighborhood I grew up in had a plane crash about a year before I was born right at the top of the hill from my childhood home. 

What brought you to WashU Medicine Orthopedics?

I was with Washington University in the Department of surgical oncology and missed utilizing my athletic training skill set so I was very lucky to find a position with orthopedic oncology initially before transitioning to my current role. 

How do you support the department? 

I am the clinical athletic trainer with the Living Well Center and also function the clinical assistant for nurse practitioner Sara Kellahan. I co-lead the Movement and Exercise Shared Medical appointments with Sara as well. I provide exercise and physical activity support and resources to the patients in the program.

What aspect of your work do you find most interesting and rewarding? 

Being able to support the patients on their journey to change their lives for the better. The Living Well Center providers and staff are so talented, it’s exciting to be able to develop new content and ways to support the patients. We have a lot of new projects in the works that I’m very passionate about. 

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?

Outside of work I spend most of my time outdoors with my two dogs (goldendoodles Oliver and August); ages six and nine months. I also enjoy cheering on my niece at her sporting events.

What's the best advice you ever received?

“Just take it one day at a time” - my mom. I think that’s helped me to be able to reach my goals both personally and professionally.

If you weren't in healthcare, what would you like to be doing?

Author or dog photographer.

Anything else you'd like to share? 

I was a competitive dance for 17 years growing up and still find the best exercise is to put on music and just dance it out.