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W. David Freeman, M.D.
Program: Neurology Residency, PGY-4, Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville
Hometown: Born in Lonestar, Texas., grew up in Dallas, Texas
Medical School: University of Texas Medical School - San Antonio
What led you to medicine and neurology?
"I was very close to my grandparents as I was growing up. My grandfather suffered from Parkinson's disease and my grandmother suffered a stroke from atrial fibrillation. I think my initial interest in medicine was a way to respond to their experiences - to honor them. Also, my grandmother really kept my head in the books during my childhood. She really encouraged me to work hard academically.
Neuroscience is extremely intellectually stimulating to me. I had some great mentors in neurology during medical school. This combined with my grandparents' experiences have really inspired me."
What is most fulfilling to you in practicing medicine?
"I'm most fulfilled every chance I get to spend time with patients and their families. Getting back to my childhood, I saw (and felt), firsthand, how important it is for medical staff to communicate well with patients as well as their families. When I can help to educate patients and families, and get to know them and put them more at ease - that is when I feel most rewarded. I may not be able to undo a stroke, but with a good patient/family relationship, I can help prevent a future stroke, and be there for them."
Why Mayo?
"I'm a very analytical person. I study information very carefully so it feels a little funny saying this, but it just felt right. I knew I would get the best training here. I looked at thirty residency programs. I admired Mayo Clinic and all that it stands for - its philosophy of patient care; the three intertwined shields representing patient care, research and education; ample time that is spent with patients; the fact that it provides superior medical care. Secondary to these would have to be its facilities and educational support, such as the library, publication assistance, and research resources. There is so much support and opportunity here for publishing, conducting research and learning."
Anything surprising about Mayo Clinic?
"I wasn't expecting everything to be so efficient. From the electronic medical record to so many carefully thought-out procedures - they all help me to focus-in on the patient and learning."
What do you do in your spare time in Jacksonville?
"I enjoy Jacksonville very much - it's a very beautiful, dynamic city that is really expanding right now. I like playing soccer with fellow Mayo medical residents and staff, going out to the movies, and reading when I have the time."
What are your future plans and goals?
"I want to stay in neuroscience in an academic setting, where I can freely interact with other colleagues and where we are all working at the forefront of the field. I want to always practice where I can most positively impact patients and their families. A big dream would be to discover new ways to reduce pain, or help cure a major disease, such as those that affected my grandparents."
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