Tom was raised in a large family in northwest Indiana whose values emphasized cheering for the underdog and helping the underserved. He received his bachelor degree at Indiana University and medical degree from Michigan State University. He completed his residency in family medicine at Community Hospitals and an ethics fellowship at IU. He met his wife, also a family doctor, in college at summer camp for handicapped children.

The strong influences of family, education and mentors has lead them to the path of working with the underserved in Indianapolis, Kenya, and in multiple community health centers. He tries to pass forward his passion for care of marginalized populations through medical education. His practice currently focuses on end of life care - helping patients and families find peace in transition.

He has four children: a writer, boat builder, OB/GYN and entomologist. He enjoys being outside, working with wood and serving on non-profit boards.