Michael Cannon, MD, earned his medical doctorate from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine in 1999. Afterward, he completed a residency and fellowship in rheumatology at the Medical College of Virginia, now Virginia Commonwealth University Health System. Today, Dr. Cannon lives and practices in Virginia Beach, Va.
Q: What is one of your fondest medical school memories?
A: There are so many that it's hard to choose. Despite all of the academic experiences and the "you can't make this up" medical stories from rotations, it is hard to beat watching the UK men's basketball championship run in 1998, coming from behind to beat Duke in the Elite 8. From watching the game at Two Keys Tavern to celebrating in the streets of campus after the victory over Utah for the finals (don't worry, I didn't climb a street light pole or flip over a news van!), I'll never forget March 1998!
Q: Who was the most memorable teacher or mentor while you were a medical student?
A: Several stand out, including Dr. Steve Haist who taught us the importance of thoroughness, not cutting corners, and the emphasis on the art of the physical exam; Dr. Richard Tobin (in dermatology) who tremendously grew my confidence by placing his trust in me to perform minor surgery as he was injured during my rotation; and Dr. Chipper Griffith who demonstrated what bedside manner should look like and how to be supportive of your colleagues.
Q: What are some professional accomplishments you're most proud of?
A: From 2010-2011, I served as president of the Virginia Society of Rheumatology. In 2013, I earned my first Top Doctor award in Hampton Roads, a respected local magazine in the Virginia Beach area. In 2017 and 2022, I had publications on Glucocorticoid-induced Osteoporosis Guidelines included in Arthritis & Rheumatology, the official journal of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR).