John Doty, M.D. Austin Samaritans Founder Board Vice Chair

John Doty, M.D., first participated on a medical mission trip at the invitation of his brother Jim in the spring of 1989. For the first time John confronted degrading poverty. He examined emaciated children with rotted teeth and rusty-colored hair due to malnutrition. He saw serious untreated diseases causing significant disabilities. Unable to walk away, he decided he needed to be part of the solution. Over the years, John continued to participate in medical mission trips while continuing his medical oncology practice in Austin. Over time more and more folks joined the effort, and Austin Samaritans was formed in March 2007. Austin Samaritans quickly grew far beyond what could be accomplished in a few hours each week. The choice was to keep Austin Samaritans small or to let it grow to what God intended by committing much more time and effort.

In February 2008, John closed his medical practice to become a full-time volunteer for Austin Samaritans. John also volunteers for Holston Habitat for Humanity and the East Pine Grove United Methodist Church Food Pantry.