Why I chose the specialty of allergy and immunology
The reason I chose the specialty of allergy and immunology is that I suffer from allergies and asthma. Since these conditions often run in families, both of my adult children also suffer from allergies and asthma. I also have several aunts, uncles, and cousins with the same conditions.
Having this personal experience allows me to connect with my patients and understand what they are experiencing. Unless you have allergies and asthma, it is hard to explain how you feel. I often tell my patients “I know what you are trying to explain, I have experienced it too.”
Giving back to the community through volunteering
I am a strong believer in giving back to the community. I have been volunteering since I was in college and continue to volunteer today. I have instilled this in my children who often volunteer with me. I have done three medical missions to Jamaica. While in Jamaica I saw patients in a mountain village outside of Ocho Rios. These patients, children, and adults, waited for hours to be seen. This was an amazing experience. I got to share this experience with my wife, daughter, and niece. My niece is now in medical school. The joy you experience when you are helping someone is inexplicable. The smiles from the children and the appreciation from their parents filled my heart with joy.
I have also volunteered locally at Camp Boggy Creek in Eustis. It is either a weekend or weeklong camp for children with chronic illnesses such as asthma. I was the camp physician who was there in case any child needed medical care. My daughter has joined me on two of these occasions.
Locally I am also involved with the American Lung Association and am currently a member of the local board. We recently had our annual fundraiser which was a 5k walk/run. My company team and I came in first place in regards to the most donations collected. I was passionate about raising funds because it is a local charity that strives to help us breathe clean air.
I am an active member of the Rotary Club of Dr Phillips. They hold several fundraising events throughout the year to help support the local Dr. Phillips schools, library, and YMCA.
I also support my Alma Mater, the University of South Florida. I am the immediate past president of the local chapter of the Alumni Association. We hold several social events locally to help alumni network and get to know each other. People are often surprised that after Tampa Bay, Central Florida has the second largest USF alumni in the area.
My passions
Family is most important to me. I am blessed to have both of my parents still alive, and in town, who are able to sit down with me and have a great conversation about anything from politics to local events. I have a large extended family who is local and find any excuse to get together. I went to high school at Oak Ridge High School in Orlando. I often get together with friends that my wife and I have known since high school. These are the simple things in my life that bring me joy. I also enjoy ‘70s music — including disco, visiting lighthouses, my two toy poodles Mia and Zoe, and of course attending Orlando City Soccer games as well as the Orlando Magic.