About Me

I grew up in rural Missouri. I was not sure what I wanted to do when I went to college, but I always leaned toward medicine due to an intense interest in science and how the body works. By the time I graduated from Tulane University in New Orleans, I knew I wanted to become a surgeon. Fortunately, I was able to achieve my goal. Besides the very gratifying feeling of being able to help people, I have always been very grateful to my profession for the knowledge and insight it has offered me.I have been very lucky in that I am still married to my first love for over 35 years. We are blessed to have six wonderful children. They are all grown now, and my wife and I are greatly enjoying our seven grandchildren. I am at a good point in life, and I am content and looking forward to completing my career with Kaiser Permanente.

About my practice

I really do love surgery. Although it can be trying, the opportunity to improve a member’s quality of life or even correct a life threatening problem is very rewarding. As a surgeon, I feel it is my responsibility to be knowledgeable, current with medical advances and skillful in the surgical techniques of my specialty.I strongly believe that one of the most important factors in good surgical outcomes is having an informed patient who has participated in the decision making process and has made an educated choice on the best course of action for their particular problem. It is my belief that patients should be as proactive as possible to help with their care.

How I thrive

I sometimes have more energy than I know what to do with! Occasionally, the ability to relax is very hard, but my wife and family help me unwind. My biggest personal outlet is exercise, often fairly intense, and almost daily.Recently, my wife and I were able to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa. It was very physically challenging, but an immensely rewarding experience. We plan and look forward to future similar trips.I feel that quality of life is incredibly important, and feel strongly that we all need to assume personal responsibility to continually try to be the best person mentally, physically and spiritually that we can possibly be.