The journey into healthcare starts long before the first day of clinical education. For Dr. David Zamierowski, it was an honor to be the first in his generation to attend college, setting a precedent for his Polish immigrant community in Michigan.

Music gave 12-year-old David purpose and calm as the primary organist at his Polish Catholic parish, teaching him discipline, dexterity and the confidence to both succeed — and fail — in front of an audience from a young age.

While completing medical school at Johns Hopkins, an impromptu game of doubles tennis marked the beginning of a remarkable partnership. Across the net was Mary Moffitt, a brilliant new biochemistry graduate student from New Orleans. Her competitive spirit, quick wit and determination to beat him on every point made an immediate impression. David proposed just three weeks later, and they married in 1968.

David was drafted to Vietnam in 1969, just one year into residency. He served both his battalion and the local village in Vietnam for a year as the on-site physician. Upon his return, David and Mary balanced raising their children with completing their education. David resumed residency, while Mary earned her Ph.D. in Biochemistry. They eventually moved to the University of Kansas, ultimately operating a private plastic surgery practice together that combined their talents in medicine, science and innovation.