Cook Children's Doctor Spotlight: Michael Foreman, M.D., of Cook Children's Gastroenterology - Lubbock

Michael Foreman, M.D., Gastroenterology - Cook Children's Specialty Clinic Lubbock 

The Texas Panhandle is a special place, and it holds a special place in Dr. Foreman's heart. He was born in Dumas, then moved to Pampa, Texas later in high school.  While he's a proud fourth-generation Aggie, his medical journey took him through Texas Tech Health Sciences Center. He then moved to Indianapolis for his fellowship at Riley Hospital for Children. With his wife and three children, Dr. Foreman returned home to West Texas and had always planned to continue medicine in Lubbock. 

In this Q&A, Dr. Foreman shares his journey into pediatrics and more about his wonderful family.

What inspired you to work in pediatrics? What made you decide to pursue Gastroenterology?

I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis when I was in first grade and actually came to Lubbock for my care at the time.  I met Dr. Jim Higgins at that age and formed such a bond over the course of several years, several medications, and several surgeries, that I found myself interested in Pediatric GI.  In late elementary school - after a total colectomy and ileal pull-thru - I realized that becoming the next First Baseman for the Houston Astros probably wasn’t in the cards (but only due to a lack of talent and athleticism) and considered medicine as a career.  I had always loved academics and people, and medicine was a natural fit.  I leaned into my experience in Pediatric GI and kept in contact with Dr. Higgins and felt that my experience as a patient might offer some benefit to other kiddos with GI illness and never looked back. A few years ago, I was lucky enough to join Jim (as well as my other excellent partners!) as both a mentee, friend, and practice partner!

What's your favorite part about working with children?

Kids are so fun!  I’ve never really grown up in my own mind.  And equally important - kids are so resilient.  They can climb the biggest of mountains.

What is your philosophy of patient care?

My faith is very dear to me, and I see patient care and faith intersect constantly.  I try to meet each patient and family where they are and thoroughly enjoy spending time with and pouring into a relationship with each patient and family.  I try to think - If Jesus of Nazareth had been “Dr. Jesus” and just so happened to be a 21st century Pediatric Gastroenterologist - how would He care for this person?  I try to do that.  I fail on a daily basis, but that is my target I try to aim at!

What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?

I am a proud dad of three school age kiddos and married up (somehow) to my beautiful wife.  I love spending time with them.  That time could be at home, dance class, in the car, date night, or McDonald’s.  I also have fallen back in love with playing and recording music since finishing my GI fellowship.

What is your favorite things about working for Cook Children’s?

When our group joined Cook Children’s, we were able to house all of the pediatric gastroenterologists in West Texas under one roof.  In my opinion, this is good for us as providers and also good for the patients we serve.