Don knew he wanted to be a doctor for a long time. His first grade teacher reminded him of that when he graduated medical school.
Being raised in a farm in Northern California, Don had a work ethic instilled upon him that would be a benefit to him during his long years of schooling. He received his B.A. in Biology from Pacific Union College, his M.D. from Loma Linda University, and an M.P.H. (Master of Public Health) also from Loma Linda.
He finished his internship at Portland Adventist Hospital June 30, 0f 1960. He was sworn into the Navy the next day. Don served for four years as a Medical Officer in bacteriological warfare. He was the Squadron Medical Officer on destroyers in the South Pacific, Australia, and the western Pacific. He came out of the Navy as a Lt. Commander.
Professionally, Don had a family practice in San Diego, CA and Arvin, CA. Later he served as the Director for the emergency department in Camden, TN.
Don is now semi-retired along with his wife Judy. He volunteers his services at the Black Hills Health and Education. His duties include; medical examinations, health lectures, and he enjoys assisting with personal training of the wellness guests.
His hobbies include gardening, photography, and weight training. Don had never trained with weights until the age of 71. At the time, he could do only 2 pushups. Now, he can do 80 pushups and leg press over 500 pounds at a bodyweight of 160 pounds. Don continues to inspire guests with his "you can do it" approach, and occasionally with some one-armed pushups.
