U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has announced Dr. Janette Nesheiwat as his pick for Surgeon General, sparking nationwide conversation following revelations about a traumatic incident from her childhood. The 48-year-old physician, well-known as a medical expert on Fox News, will assume the role of "the nation’s top doctor," becoming a prominent figure in shaping U.S. health policy under the incoming administration.
While Dr. Nesheiwat is celebrated for her expertise and dedication to medicine, a report by The New York Times has resurfaced a personal tragedy from her past. At the age of 13, Dr. Nesheiwat accidentally shot her father, Ben Nesheiwat, in the family home in Orlando, Florida.
According to a 1990 police report, she had been searching for a pair of scissors when she tipped over a fishing tackle box on a shelf in her father’s bedroom. A .38-caliber handgun stored in the box discharged, striking her father in the head. Ben Nesheiwat, 44, succumbed to his injuries the following day. The coroner ruled the shooting accidental.
In her memoir, Beyond the Stethoscope, Dr. Nesheiwat reflects on her father's death as a pivotal moment that shaped her career choice. However, the book does not detail her involvement in the incident.
“When I was 13 years old, I helplessly watched my dear father dying from an accident as blood was spurting everywhere. I couldn’t save his life. This was the start of my personal journey in life to become a physician,” she wrote.
Dr. Nesheiwat has credited her father's untimely death as the catalyst for her commitment to medicine, driving her to improve patient care and advocate for health awareness.
Dr. Nesheiwat's medical career spans decades, during which she has gained public trust as a health communicator and practicing physician. She has frequently appeared on Fox News, offering medical insights on issues ranging from public health crises to patient advocacy.
Her appointment as Surgeon General is seen as a continuation of Trump's strategy to elevate figures with media recognition to high-profile positions. Supporters argue that her relatable personal story and professional achievements make her an empathetic leader for the role, while critics have raised questions about her suitability in light of the resurfaced tragedy.
Dr. Nesheiwat is expected to prioritize public health challenges such as preventative care, mental health awareness, and healthcare accessibility. Her nomination marks a significant chapter in a career deeply intertwined with her personal loss, inspiring debate about resilience and leadership in the face of past adversities.
If confirmed, Dr. Nesheiwat will be sworn in as the 21st U.S. Surgeon General, carrying the weight of her unique journey into the nation's public health arena.
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