5 Fun Facts about Dr. Leo
1. I was born in the city where Mardi Gras originated. Can you guess which city?
Mobile, Alabama!
Little known fact: Mardi Gras is believed to have started in Mobile, Alabama in 1703, making it one of the oldest in the nation and older than the Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans, Louisiana. It began when the French settlers held the first Mardi Gras celebration, continuing a tradition from their homeland. The annual tradition lives on in Mobile every year to this day.
2. I aspired to become a doctor since I was 5 years old.
(L - picture of Dr. Leo with Operation game. R – medical school graduation photo)
I come from a family of nurses, starting from my grandmother, followed by my mother, and then my aunt. I remember telling my mom as a child, “We need a doctor in this family. I’m going to be a doctor”. 20 years later, at the age of 25, I graduated with my Doctor of Medicine from the Morehouse School of Medicine. I am the first doctor in my family and honored to serve my family and community.
3. If I didn’t become a doctor, I would’ve become a singer.
Music has always been a source of self-expression and escape for me. From singing in the church choir, variety shows, and now mostly at karaoke, singing remains one of my favorite pastimes.
4. I am trained in 3 medical specialties.
I am trained in internal medicine, HIV medicine, and lifestyle medicine.
I’m often asked, “What is internal medicine?” Think of an internal medicine physician as a general practitioner for adults. We are trained to care for people with a range of medical conditions, from strep throat to diabetes. We also work closely with specialists, such as cardiologists, to care for people with heart disease, and oncologists, to care for people with cancer.
HIV medicine is a specialty focused on providing medical treatment to people living with HIV.
Lifestyle medicine is an emerging field of medicine that focuses on preventing and reversing chronic medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes with diet and exercise.
5. Hiking is one of my favorite ways to practice self-care.
There’s no greater feeling for me than being out on the hiking trail with fresh air and beautiful views. I often hike alone and use that as time to reflect and recharge. I always end my hikes feeling an immense sense of gratitude. If you haven’t tried it, I encourage you to find a nearby trail and get active!
