Neil Melendez

Grew up… poor with his parents and younger sister. After a bad fall from a tree, Neil’s sister developed a brain injury that has been debilitating. Starting as a young boy, Neil cared for her and he continues to do that now that she is an adult. 

Living… in San Jose, California. His home is amazing, but he is never there because he works all the time. 

Profession… attending surgeon at San Jose St. Bonaventure Hospital. Everyone knows he possesses high skill in his field and is respected throughout the hospital. And Neil knows how good he is too; he can be quite cocky. Neil oversees a group of surgical residents who are vying to become attending doctors. He tells them bluntly: “You're all quarterbacks. And when training camp is over, there's only going to be one starter.”

Interests… running, drinking, and flirting.   

Relationship Status… engaged to Jessica Preston, the hospital's in-house attorney and Vice President of Risk Management. But their relationship has been strained because they can’t agree on having kids together. For Neil, his number one priority is being the best doctor he can be, and he’s not ready to start a family. 

Challenge… keeping things professional. Neil is attracted to Claire, one of his surgical residents. They are starting to spend time together outside the hospital.

Personality… driven, high-strung, and charming. Neil is brilliant and expects a lot from his attendees, but he’s not sure they can meet his high standards. Although he can be tense and high-strung, it’s admirable that he does everything he can to save his patients.