Emily is a native of Boone. She has been practicing at Watauga Surgical Group since completing her PA studies in Roanoke VA in 2009. She lives with her husband and son. They enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing.
Elisabeth Stump, MPH, PA-C grew up outside of Asheville, NC. After earning both her undergraduate degree and Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA, Elisabeth continued her education at Gardner Webb in Boiling Springs, NC for Physician Assistant school. Elisabeth’s special clinical interests are in general surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, and rural medicine. In her free time, Elisabeth enjoys dancing, camping, hiking, and traveling with her husband. Elisabeth is proud to serve in the High Country – her home and community.
Dr. van der Westhuizen graduated from Covenant College and entered the Medical College of Georgia, obtaining his medical degree in 2007. In 2012 he finished his General Surgery training at Greenville Hospital System University Medical Center in Greenville, SC. He subsequently completed a surgical fellowship in Minimally Invasive Surgery in Greenville, as well.
In addition to general surgical procedures, Dr. van der Westhuizen has interest and specialty training in both complex hernia repair and advanced laparoscopy. He offers laparoscopic and open repair options for a range of hernia defects including umbilical, incisional, flank, parastomal, inguinal, and recurrent hernias. Other advanced laparoscopic techniques include paraesophageal (hiatal) hernia repair and fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux, Heller myotomy for achalasia, colon surgery, adrenalectomy, splenectomy, and nephrectomy.
Dr. van der Westhuizen was born in South Africa, grew up as a missionary kid in Chile, South America, and speaks Spanish fluently. He served in medical missions during his surgical residence in Honduras, and he has a continuing interest in medical missions in the future.
Dr. van der Westhuizen is married to his wife Stephanie. They have four children Elie, John, Caleb, and Joel.
