About Me

I was born in Milwaukee, but have lived in the South all of my life. After graduation from the University of Alabama, I joined the Navy during the Vietnam War. I served as the public affairs officer for the 15th Naval District in the Panama Canal Zone. After three years in the Navy, I went to graduate school, earning a master's degree in physiology. I then completed much of my course work toward a Ph.D. in physiology, but decided that I liked working with people much more than research. At that time I started medical school at Louisiana State University in New Orleans. I had a private practice in Huntsville, Ala. for seven years, and then I joined Kaiser Permanente. I am currently an internist at the Alpharetta Medical Center.

About my practice

I chose internal medicine because I still believe in the concept of a family doctor. I enjoy getting to know our members as people, and I like to treat everyone with understanding, respect and compassion. I currently serve as the lead physician for the Kaiser Permanente Alpharetta Medical Center and Forsyth Medical Office. In addition, I am assistant to the chief of medicine with responsibilities of working with our medical staff in the treatment of depression, asthma and emphysema (COPD). I serve on the Physician Wellness Committee and the editorial board of The Permanente Journal.

How I thrive

I believe in regular exercise, healthy diet, close friends and family, and I have a strong religious faith. I love the outdoors and enjoy camping, hiking and photography. I also believe in giving back to the community. I am on the board of directors for Baptist Medical and Dental Missions International and go to Honduras each year for a medical mission trip. I also serve on the board of directors for the Summit Counseling Center, a faith-based counseling center, and I am on the board of Third Lens, an organization which builds and donates medical clinics to communities in Honduras and Guatemala.