Bradley Scott Colton, M.D., hematologist and medical oncologist, is now seeing patients at Texas Oncology–Flower Mound, Carrollton, and Lewisville. Dr. Colton discusses a formative moment in his medical education and what he would like his legacy, as a physician, to be.
Did you always know you wanted to be a doctor, specifically specializing in hematology and oncology?
My interest in hematology and oncology began early. In high school, I received a research training award with the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health. This, along with the experimental research I participated in during college, solidified my interest in studying and researching oncology.
What would you like your legacy, as a physician, to be?
I would like to leave a legacy of being knowledgeable, caring, and passionate about providing the best possible care for each patient and their families. I also would love to be known as a good teammate, resource, and friend to everyone I’ve had the opportunity to meet.
What has been a defining moment in your medical education?
During medical school, I was able to organize and start two programs: a summer sports camp for children in the Washington, D.C. general homeless shelter and an eye clinic to screen for diabetic retinopathy. It was amazing to recognize the needs of the homeless population we treated in our student-run clinic, make plans to address these needs, and overcome obstacles to carry out those plans to make a difference and improve the lives of others.
What advice would you give someone who is aspiring to be a doctor?
It is a long and hard journey, but absolutely doable and rewarding. Find what brings you the most joy and choose that specialty to focus on for your career. Create a great support team and believe in yourself.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy being outside, playing sports, traveling, and reading. Most of all, I like spending time with my incredible wife and five amazing children.
What was your first job before medicine?
My first job was doing research on T-cell reconstitution following lymphodepletion at the National Institutes of Health.
What does a perfect day look like to you?
My perfect day would start by waking up on time and getting in a good workout; having a productive, rewarding day at work; and coming home to play with the kids and have dinner as a family before starting the bedtime routine.