Dr. Frank Skurpski's daily life looks very different than it did three months ago before coronavirus. Now his days consist of triaging patients in tents outside of the hospital, struggling with shortages of PPE (personal protection equipment), and dealing with the harsh realities of the coronavirus. But for doctors like Skurpski, it's a fight they've been trained for and something he considers a personal duty as health professionals. To Skurpski and many others, the current crisis hasn't soured their interest in medicine. It has reignited the passion that got them into the field.
Skurpski's journey into the medical world began after he started a career as a personal trainer after serving in the military and doing a plethora of odd jobs. "Being a personal trainer was the first job where I truly enjoyed going to work every day and helping others achieve their health-related goals. This newfound interest in health, fitness, and nutrition is what motivated me to go back to college."
When he decided to start college again, Skurpski came to OCC for math and science classes. While at OCC his passion for science and learning was reignited and he decided to become a doctor. After graduating from OCC in 2003, Skurpski went on to earn a bachelor's degree from Cornell University in 2005 and his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine in 2010.
During times like this, Skurpski finds himself drawing on his initial passion for medicine to help support patients on the front lines. "It's not a situation we ideally think about when we enter the medical profession, but it is our duty."
One thing is certain; our community and our country couldn't get by without health heroes like Dr. Frank Skurpski. On behalf of everyone at OCC and beyond, we thank you for your service!
