President Donald Trump has announced his choice for the new U.S. Surgeon General.
Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, known for her television appearances, is set to be Trump’s pick for this crucial public health role, Mail Online reported.
Dr. Nesheiwat, 48, will officially assume her role shortly after Trump’s January 20 inauguration. Her prominence grew through her regular contributions as a medical expert on Fox News, making her a familiar face in American households.
The inspiration behind Dr. Nesheiwat's medical career is rooted in a poignant personal tragedy. At just 13 years old, she experienced a horrific accident that resulted in the death of her father, Ben Nesheiwat, in their family home in Orlando, Florida.
The accident occurred one morning at 7:15 am while she was retrieving scissors from a fishing tackle box. Unbeknownst to her, the box also contained a .38-calibre handgun, which accidentally discharged and fatally wounded her father. The coroner ruled the incident an "accidental shooting."
In her memoir "Beyond The Stethoscope," Dr. Nesheiwat opens up about the trauma that drove her towards a career in medicine. Though she does not discuss her direct involvement in the accident within the book, she shares the profound impact it had on her.
In Dr. Nesheiwat's memoir, she recalls the harrowing moment:
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 journey in life to become a physician.
Following the tragedy, Dr. Nesheiwat was raised by her mother, Hayat, who supported her ambition to succeed in the medical field. Her loss and subsequent career choice highlight a transformative journey from despair to dedication, aspiring to prevent such tragedies in the lives of others.
The nomination of Dr. Nesheiwat is among several of Trump’s notable appointments. For instance, his choices include the youngest-ever White House press secretary and a renowned billionaire for Treasury Secretary, reflecting a pattern of distinctive and high-profile selections.
Meanwhile, Dr. Nesheiwat confirmed the events of the tragic day in her statement to the police: "I was in father’s bedroom at around 7.15 am getting some scissors. I opened the fishing tackle box and the whole thing tipped over. Something fell out of it and there was a loud noise. I saw blood on my father’s ear."
Furthermore, the new Surgeon General nominee’s background brings a unique perspective to the role, particularly in how personal experience can inform professional responsibilities in public health. Dr. Nesheiwat’s narrative underscores an intense commitment to healthcare, stemming from a deeply personal place. As a result, as she prepares to lead the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, Dr. Nesheiwat carries with her not just extensive medical knowledge but also a passionate commitment influenced by her own life’s trials and tribulations.
People have high expectations for Dr. Nesheiwat as she steps into a role that could shape healthcare policies and national health initiatives. Furthermore, her personal and professional experiences will play a critical role in her approach to tackling the challenges facing the U.S. healthcare system.
In addition, as Dr. Nesheiwat takes on her new role, her history, expertise, and narrative will become a significant part of her approach to health leadership and policymaking—a testament to how personal histories can profoundly affect professional paths and public service.
