About Me

Thank you for the opportunity to introduce myself. I have practiced family medicine at Kaiser Permanente since 2006.

Biography

I was born in California, and spent my early years in the San Francisco Bay Area. My family moved to Southern California when I was in my teens. Neither of my parents attended college, but always stressed the importance of an education. My medical education was launched in the military. My two brothers had entered the military, and I joined them in the United States Navy, where I served as a Hospital Corpsman. As a Navy medic, I trained in x-ray technology. This enabled me to support myself and my family as I worked my way through community college at San Diego Mesa College, and eventually graduated from UC San Diego with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. I attended medical school at the Midwestern University Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine. I completed my post-doctoral training in family medicine at Doctors' Hospital in Montclair. My desire to better myself, and eventually become a doctor came from my father, an ornamental ironworker who worked with his hands his entire life. After I graduated from high school, I asked him if I could come work in his shop and earn a few dollars. He looked and me with a pregnant pause, and after what seem like an eon said, “No. You need to go to college. Use your brain, not your brawn.” Although I did not take a direct path, his words stuck with me. I worked in food service, like my mother, did all sorts of construction jobs, and served in the military as a Navy medic, which planted the seed to become a physician.

About my practice

My primary care practice is in Southwest Riverside County. As a doctor of osteopathy, I listen carefully to my patients, approaching each as a whole person, and using ears and hands to diagnose and treat injury and illness. Medical students frequently shadow my practice, as I believe in helping the next generation of young doctors. It is a way of giving back after so many people supported me to grow and learn. My goal is to be of service and to add value.

How I thrive

I thrive by making time for myself, my family – especially my loving, patient wife, and two adult children. My interests include photography, travel, reading, pets, and playing Sudoku. I love to stay active and subscribe to daily brisk walking as part of the Everybody Walk! Campaign. I can frequently be seen walking the streets and alleys close to my office. For more about preventive care, please watch 23 and 1/2 Hours on YouTube. Fitness and preventive care are important in my life, and I stress this to my patients. Ultimately, I realized that I always have choices, even when it looks like none exist. I choose health, fitness, and love.