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Continued from page 21 But beginning his career - in any town — was not yet in the cards. “(My wife) Kathy and I took a 14-month backpack- ing holiday after graduation. We'd worked hard in school, and this was our reward.” The trip would see them crisscross the Pacific Rim, from the South Seas to the Asian continent. It even included some professional experience, doctoring in ————\_ New Zealand fora short period. Ironically, it was Kathy’ s skill set which threw that door wide “Kathy and | took a |4-month back- packing holiday after graduation.” a» Dr. Gord Mercer oNe'a decided to look into an exchange program for doctors -‘down under’ they recruit docs to provide summer coverage. We found out that Kathy’s credentials were one of their most in-demand positions. They said I could come along as her ‘dependent!’” Kathy’s degree in Occupational Therapy cemented e plan. “It’s an unheralded profession which serves a wide variety of needs in society,” Gord says proudly of his wife’s designation. “Here she works with children with special needs as part of the school system, but in New Zealand her role was quite different: she helped geriatrics with practical adaptations in their daily lives, like the use of devices to! facilitate dressing or how to best position a grab-bar. Port Perry’s Medical. Associates numbered ten when Gord was ready to begin his career. He recalls his hir- ing in early 1989 as a perfect storm, a coming-together of the clinic’s needs and his ability to contribute. “J actually came knocking at their door, after look- ing into a number of communities’ programs. There was no job opening posted.” “There was a common team-based approach among the members which was exactly what I wanted, and I suppose I had the makeup to fit in. Each physician covered for the others by taking a turn in the office, 22 FOCUS - NOVEMBER 2012 ‘11.NOVEMBER.56 final indd 22 emergency room... whatever was needed.” “Dr. Allin and I clicked during that interview. I remember he said, after hearing about our backpack- ing adventure: ‘Good, you've sown your wild oats!’ He knew I was in for the long haul, and so did I.” While he successfully integrated with his new profes- sional surroundings, Kathy and Gord quickly became part of the community. “Kathy was pregnant when we came to Port Perry. When Laura was born — having a child growing up in the community — that’s when you're truly a part of it. That was 23 years ago, and it’s been perfect.” The family expanded to four with the arrival of Bri- anna five years later. Their small circle became Gord’s focal point. “T’ve been racking my brain, trying to think of what to say when that topic came up,” he smiles as the conver- sation shifts from professional to personal life. “I don’t have any consuming hobbies. I’m a devoted family man, and when I’m not focused on my practice, my attention’s here with them.” “T’ve coached soccer and hockey over the years, led Cubs in my early days here. As a family, we enjoy camp- Retirement, he insists, isn’t anywhere on the horizon... and his wife Kathy has given up asking him. ing and canoeing, and just generally being together, even if it’s something as simple as riding bikes into town for ice cream.” His pride in his two daughters is evident in his tone. “Laura was born with Down’s Syndrome, and thanks in large part to Kathy — her training and background were ideal — she’s living a full life, independently. Bri- anna’s off to Guelph University this fall, pursuing animal biology. Another doctor maybe...? She's not saying!” Gord’s professional scope has expanded over time. “T’ve been part of the group teaching doctoral resi- dents the past dozen or so years,” he explains. “It’s a way to enjoy the medical experience all over again — the Blinds - Draperies - Shutters - Shades Great Selection - Stylish Colours - Superior Service Satisfaction Guaranteed! FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION Joe Gibson, Blackstoc! k A 905-213-2583 Blinds. ....2°2:22-2523 12-10-22 8:19AM