The
Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine Center at Arnold Palmer Hospital cares for infants, children and young adults with chronic and acute respiratory disorders. Our practice provides comprehensive care for a wide variety of disorders associated with the lungs including, but not limited to, everything from asthma and chronic cough to restrictive, interstitial lung diseases and sleep disorders. Our interdisciplinary team consists of physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, respiratory care practitioners, social workers, dietitians, pharmacists, medical assistants, front office staff and medical residents. We recently interviewed Dr. Weatherly, pediatric pulmonologist, to get to know him outside of the exam room and to learn more about the Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine Center.
Where did you grow up?
In Michigan.
Where did you go to medical school?
Michigan State University
What was your first job?
I was a camp counselor in high school.
What are your hobbies?
Reading, travel, medical missions volunteer
If you could meet anyone, who could it be?
The Pope because I think he would have a great perspective on suffering and the love of God in our lives.
Did you always know you wanted to go into the field of medicine?
No. I wanted to be a veterinarian but discovered an allergy to cats, so that was not a viable career!
Why did you choose to go into pediatric pulmonology?
I had a mentor and role model who was a pediatric pulmonologist. I loved the way he helped families of children with Cystic Fibrosis, as well as how he balanced his career and family time.
How long have you worked at Arnold Palmer Hospital?
I have admitted patients here for 17 years and have actually worked for the hospital for 6 years.
What do you love most about working at the Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine Center at Arnold Palmer Hospital?
We have an awesome multidisciplinary team that works well together and provides excellent comprehensive care to patients.
Has there been a specific patient or family that has impacted you as a physician?
There have been many. Each family brings their own perspective to a chronic illness, and it is an honor (though sometimes a challenge) to work with them through the process of medical therapy for their child.
What is one thing that most of your patients don’t know about you?
I am crazy about dogs, and I feel a little guilty telling some patients who have pet allergies they cannot have a pet when I have one myself!
In honor of Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, what key pieces of advice do you give to families whose child has been diagnosed with asthma?
Take your preventive medication as prescribed, and do not let anyone tell you not to be physically active because of your asthma. Go for it!
