Dr. Alton Smith, diagnostic radiologist at Beaumont, Grosse Pointe, thought about being a doctor when he was young. He had a strong interest in the science, and his parents bought him his first microscope when he was in elementary school.
Even with his parents’ support, Dr. Smith remained unsure because of the time and commitment it was going to take to earn a medical degree.
After graduating from Detroit’s Denby High School, Dr. Smith joined the military and served as a combat medic in an evacuation unit during the Gulf War. That’s when he knew, without a doubt, medicine was his calling.
“My experience was life altering,” he said. “I saw things over there that made me realize life is too short. When you’re in the middle of it and bombs are blowing up over your head, you really look at life a little differently.”
Armed with a degree in nursing from his combat medic training, Dr. Smith fulfilled his dream of becoming a doctor by studying nuclear medicine and pre-med at Ferris State University and graduating from Wayne State University School of Medicine.
Dr. Smith knew his path to becoming a doctor wasn’t a typical one.
“Hard work, being persistent and giving back were central themes in our household while growing up,” he explains. “My parents instilled my determination and willingness to work hard.”
Dr. Smith’s parents came to the United States from Jamaica when he was just 3 years old. “They were dirt poor farmers, but they worked hard and wanted a better life for their kids.”
The past two years have given all health care workers the chance to reflect on the work they do and the ways in which they help others. Dr. Smith has lost colleagues, friends and family because of the pandemic, but it’s only strengthened his resolve
in his decision to become a doctor.
“My wife and I are both physicians and we’ve been a constant source of support and information for our patients, families and friends. We’re proud to know that we can be a positive influence in their lives,” said Dr. Smith.
Being labeled a hero throughout the pandemic has been appreciated, if not strange for Dr. Smith. “I look at my father, and I know he wanted to be an architectural engineer. He didn’t do it because he didn’t have the money and he just
wanted to make life better for his kids. I thank my parents every day for what I have. They are true heroes.”
With a family of his own now, Dr. Smith looks to the lessons and influences he had growing up to teach his kids the same values. “Throughout my life I’ve found that people are willing to help you as long as you are motivated and willing to
do the hard work and help yourself. So, while there’s no comparison to what I have or what my kids have today to what my parents had when they were growing up, I’m confident the work ethic and inspiration will remain the same.”