To recognize Pride Month, we want to highlight a member of NASPGHAN who has made a significant impact in our field, Dr. Michael K. Pickens. Dr. Pickens is a Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics at Seattle Children’s Hospital. He has a passion for caring for children, teens, and young adults with congenital esophageal disorders like Tracheoesophageal Fistula and Esophageal Atresia, Eosinophilic GI Disorders, and Dysphagia. He is currently the Gastroenterology Medical Director of the Aerodigestive Program at Seattle Children’s Hospital. Outside of medicine, he enjoys spending time with his family, friends, and dogs. He is an avid cyclist and runner and has run countless half marathons, and over 14 marathons, and qualified and ran the Boston Marathon 3 times. Learn more about Dr. Pickens at this link.
Name: Michael K. Pickens
Current position and institution: Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics, GI Medical Director of the Aerodigestive Program at Seattle Children’s Hospital
Hometown: Tulsa, Oklahoma
Favorite GI disease: Tracheoesophageal Fistula, Esophageal Atresia, and Eosinophilic GI Disorders
Hobbies: Cycling and Running Marathons
Favorite Vacation Spot: Vancouver, Canada
Favorite Activist: Harvey Milk
Book You Recommend: The Art of Racing in The Rain
Best Career Advice You’ve Received: The best career advice was given to me by my grandmother. She said that it is important to always be kind.
