Following God’s Call…

The Whole Story

When God speaks, you listen. That’s the essence of why I’m leaving Covenant. Honestly, nothing else could make me step away from the only place I’ve worked professionally—the amazing staff who made it all possible, and most of all, the beautiful babies, children, teens, and aged-out patients turned parents who have allowed me to care for their children over the last 15 years.

I’ve held many of your children as newborns, watched them toddle, talk, count, read, play sports, excel in the arts, graduate, and do incredible things. Together, we’ve faced everything from ear infections and colds to allergies and diabetes. Sometimes, we tackled tough topics, prayed through struggles, and navigated family situations, anxiety, depression, grades, and growing pains. It has been an honor to be part of your family’s journey.

Looking back, I gave my life to Jesus after graduating high school in 2001. That life-changing decision led me to incredible adventures, my beautiful wife Anna, and 18 years of marriage blessed with seven (yes...7!) redheaded children, ages 16 years to 9 months, plus one ginger dog to match. In answer to your question: yes, our hands are full, but so are our hearts!

I graduated from the Medical College of Georgia’s Physician Assistant Program in 2010 and was amazed when God led me to a Christian pediatric practice just a mile from home. That’s where my journey with Covenant began.

Over the years, as your children grew, so did I. First, I honed my skills and built confidence, becoming a familiar face and “your kids’ doctor.” When Covenant's founder, Dr. Getts, retired, I took the opportunity to become a part-owner of Covenant. Since then, I’ve juggled administrative work, patient care (always the best part), and raising a growing family. It’s been a beautiful, challenging journey.

On one hand, I reached what I thought was the pinnacle of my career. On the other, the weight of competing priorities began to take its toll, especially on my family. As I struggled, I turned to the Lord. Instead of fixing my problems, He drew me closer to Him, rekindling that fire I felt in my youth. After much prayer and reflection, I felt God inviting me to relinquish ownership of Covenant to refocus on my family and patients.

This decision seemed “backward” by worldly standards, but God’s word brought clarity, peace, and purpose. Like the parable of the pearl of great price, I knew I had to follow His call, even if it meant giving up something really good, and stepping into the unknown. (If you’ve never felt this, consider inviting Jesus into your life. What do you have to lose?)

But God wasn’t finished speaking. Not long ago, I woke up to Him saying, “Go.” At first, I didn’t understand. Then I heard, “Come follow Me.” Through prayer, scripture, and counsel from my wife and mentors, I knew what He was asking—I needed to leave Covenant. It wasn’t easy, but His word was undeniable, and I had to obey.

Sometimes we’re tempted to only listen to God when His words align with our desires. But that’s not how life or faith works. Just as we embrace the joys and challenges of parenting or pediatrics, we must embrace God’s word—whether it’s comforting or challenging. On the other side of every cross is the empty tomb and the promise of resurrection and new life.

While I’m excited about what’s next, it’s bittersweet to say goodbye to your children, who have left an indelible mark on my heart. I hope I’ve helped you along the way, and left you even a small memory that makes you smile.

I plan to leave Covenant in February or March 2025. If its been a while, or you just had a visit yesterday, I’d love to see you at my Patient Appreciation Going Away Party.

Though I don’t know what the future holds, I trust the One who holds it—and it will be good, for both of us.