From Sydney to the Shenandoah: A Life Shaped by Story and Healing
My journey has been a winding one, beginning with a move from Sydney, Australia, to Washington, D.C. Now, I share my life with my wife, Dana, a dedicated second-grade teacher of thirty years, and our beloved dogs: Coal, a dignified English Labrador, and Jasper, a spirited two-year-old rescue with a mix of Boxer, Lab, and Chihuahua in his lineage. We’ve built a life centered around our garden, a gentle creek, and a treehouse transformed into a quiet space for writing.
My roots run deep, shaped by the stories of my ancestors. My mother’s side traces back to Italian immigrants,while my father’s family has been a part of the American landscape since 1720,hailing from the hills of West Virginia. This blend of heritage has instilled in me a profound appreciation for history,resilience,and the power of family.
I come from a lineage of those who dedicate their lives to understanding and sharing knowledge. Generations of physicians, teachers, and writers have paved the way for my own pursuits. My sister, Kara, is a prominent voice in the tech world, hosting acclaimed podcasts and writing for the New York Times. Similarly, my daughter, Kate, expresses herself through song, poetry, and lyrical essays.
Like them,I’m driven to tell stories. I’ve found that the most compelling narratives are often born from real-life experiences, carefully balanced with factual insights. I aim to invite you into the intricate world of medicine – a realm that is often challenging, profoundly moving, and ultimately, incredibly rewarding.
Here’s what works best for me: weaving together personal reflections with the realities of medical practice. It’s about acknowledging the complexities, the heartaches, and the triumphs that define this field. I beleive in the power of shared experience to foster understanding and connection.
You can connect with me and explore my writing further on Substack and Twitter. I look forward to sharing my stories with you.