Student Doctor Thatcher is a fourth-year student at Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine. He hails from the great state of Idaho.
Dwayne M. Hansen, MD had this to say about Micah, “I have known Micah since he was 6 years old. He knows the value of hard work and is dedicated to accomplishing his goals.
“I have witnessed this as Micah served a two-year proselyting and service mission in Novosibirsk, Russia. I watched as he took time away from family, friends, and his education to help the Russian people. He applied himself to learning the Russian language so he could communicate more effectively and help those around him. I know first-hand that effective service requires love and empathy, and through his service, Micah was able to develop these characteristics. As a future physician, Micah will continue to develop and apply these skills to his patients and those in his community.
“This time in Russia, along with other interactions I’ve had with Micah, allow me to confidently say that he will not only be a bright doctor, but a caring and compassionate one as well. He will be a physician that cares about each individual patient. As he did in Russia, he will take the time to learn the language of medicine and serve his patients with kindness and empathy.
“I also know that Micah has a strong work ethic, and drive to put forth his best effort. From a young age, I watched him work on his family’s farm during long summer days. This work ethic is evident in every aspect of his life: from athletics to school, and to multiple jobs to make it through his undergraduate and first year of medical school without any debt.
Through his experiences and my relationship with Micah, I am certain he is ready to take on this new responsibility and challenge of becoming a physician in an underserved area”.
Micah told us this about himself and his goals, “My primary goal during my two-year mission in Russia was to alleviate suffering through teaching and service. Most of my time was spent with those who were less fortunate or were marginalized from society. I frequently led support groups and worked with people who suffered from severe mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders.
“I know that suffering is not unique to Russian cities but is, unfortunately, also seen throughout Idaho. During my undergraduate, I worked with foster children with mental illnesses and saw the impact that one motivated person can make. Through my clinical experiences, I have learned how important it is to address these issues early in life. As a physician, I want to work with schools to increase awareness of these issues among youth and establish specific resources tailored to them.
“From serving in Russia to leading the student government, I have developed a desire to help youth become strong public leaders, advocate for osteopathic health policies, and work with my future youth community to address mental health”.
The Foundation looks forward to following your career, Micah. Job well done.