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He has also carried that community spirit beyond his home town. Dr. Everett is currently the president of the Michigan Osteopathic Association, a position he assumed at this year’s MOA convention in May. He was recruited to MOA by fellow doctor George Pramstaller, D.O., who wanted Northern Michigan to have a stronger voice in the organization. Now Dr. Everett represents D.O.s all across the state and has great respect for the importance of his position.
“Sometimes people feel that they can’t make a difference,” he explains, “but I’ve seen that you can make your voice heard.” Dr. Everett has made his mark by taking the interests of D.O.s to Lansing and Washington. “The best part of this experience is seeing ideas that began in our town become MOA resolutions and then AOA resolutions, and even become federal regulations.”
Dr. Everett’s commitment doesn’t stop at the state line either. Last fall, he led a medical mission to some of the most remote regions of Guatemala. His group worked in cooperation with local Christian missionaries and traveled to small villages in need of vital medical care. The team carries donated medicines and supplies and treats what patients they can for a variety of illnesses.
“It’s rewarding,” says Dr. Everett. “They are so appreciative, even of the small things. Things we might take for granted, like a pair of store-bought eyeglasses that can allow someone to see clearly for the first time.”
The group also helps villagers with basic needs by building dams and pumps to bring fresh water. “They don’t give us anything material in return, but what they give us is a tremendous show of love and appreciation.”
Dr. Everett lives in Indian River with his wife, Debbie. They have a daughter and two sons, including one who is a freshman at Michigan State. He enjoys spending time in the Michigan outdoors, and is an avid camper, hunter and fisherman. “I’m very fortunate,” he says. “I’ve pursued everything I’ve wanted to pursue and I’m doing what I love to do.”
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