Notebook Recollections

Dr. Dana Brian M.D. loved W. 7th. The neighborhood, the history, the community spirit. But mostly she loved her W. 7th patients. Babies, kids, teens and young adults. Moms and Pops.

She was especially close to folks on the “down and out” at the St. Paul Homeless Clinic in downtown St. Paul. And also her elder Russian immigrant patients at the St. Paul Jewish Community Center.

Dr. Brian worked at Ramsey Hospital (later Regions) prior to joining United Family Medicine. She ended her career with over 30 years at UFM.

Dr. Dana died February 10, 2026 at age 78, due to late effects of post- polio. Her Minneapolis Star Tribune obituary noted that she “passed peacefully at home.”

She was born in Okmulgee, Oklahoma and was a member of the Musagee Creek Nation.

Dana had a Native Spirit and world view. She was a child of the earth. She was wise and a “wise-acre.” She could bring a laugh to the lousiest day. It was a privilege for we UFM folks to work with Dana for 35 years.

Her memorial service in late March was a reunion of friends and family, and Clinic colleagues. Old and New Testament readings were complimented by a beautiful Muscogee wisdom reading, “The Spirits’ Journey,” personal tributes and a perfect Dr. Brian song, “A Change is Gonna Come.”

Dana loved her patients’ stories and told great stories herself. She was down to earth and open-minded. She traveled with her patients on their suffering journeys.

We will miss Dana and her great sense of humor and exceptional compassion.

Dr. Dana Brian loved W. 7th. West 7th loved Dana Brian.