The word doctor comes from the Latin word meaning “Teacher.” It is my goal in life to attempt to embody this role! I am a physician and Clinical Assistant Professor at Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine, along with being the Associate Program Director for the up and coming Residency in Family Medicine at Northwest Allied Physicians in Tucson, AZ.
My Background:
I decided to become a physician when I was about 12 years old. My mother was an ICU nurse, so I was able to spend time there and watch doctors and other medical professionals work together to care for patients. I saw my first surgery when I was about 14 as a “gofer” on a medical mission, which put me firmly on track to start preparing for medical school. Family medicine became my calling because I loved doing everything. My time working in U.S. Air Force special operations medicine, and my own long list of interests and passions, taught me to consider a patient’s occupation and hobbies as I look at the whole picture of their health. What we spend time doing really drives how we feel, so I take every opportunity to draw from my own experiences in order to connect with patients.
Professional Activities:
Separately from my teaching role, I spent about 40% of my time in my own clinical practice, which is comprised of a diverse population from adolescence to folks in their late 90s. One of my favorite aspects of my practice is building relationships with medical students, patients and their families. I will also continue to serve in the USAF Reserves, treating the members of the 943rd Rescue Group at Davis-Monthan AFB and training elite paramedics with the world famous 306th Rescue Squadron.
Hobbies:
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and children, running, weightlifting, yoga, and previously – and maybe again one day – skydiving.