Laura Fite, MD; enamored with career, family, and faith

By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI, IP MAGAZINE www.infinitieplusmag.com

r. Laura Fite with Wallis Dermatology Associates is the only female dermatologist in the Longview/Marshall community. She is happily married to her college Sweetheart, Kent Fite, MD, a radiologist with Medical Imaging Consultants at Christus Good Shepherd.

She makes a declaration of their relationship that leaves no doubt as to the extents of their professional and personal relationships:

"We met out first year of medical school. Kent is my biggest fan, but also my best friend," she says. "I am a better person because of him. He supports me in my career, but also lets me fulfill my role as a mother, which often means less of my time for him."

Laura stays remarkably busy with her career, but there is no question about her love and devotion to daughters Farrah, almost seven; Frances, four; and Finley almost two. Their three dogs, cat, and aquarium full of tropical fish also get their share of love and devotion.

A native of Lake Jackson, Texas she was raised by parents who gently, firmly impressed on her the invaluable importance of family, faith, and education. She and her two younger sisters learned that schooling is the sure path to career success. Even though she knew she wanted children, there was also the realization she had to be prepared to make it on her own if necessary.

"The importance of having an education and the skills to take care of yourself and a family is something that cannot ever be taken away," she says. "It will always be there if needed."

Her vocational choice is in accordance with family tradition. Her extended clan includes seven medical doctors and two cousins who are currently in training. She eagerly headed for medical school to follow in the footsteps of her grandfather, two uncles and an aunt.

She pulled down a Bachelor of Science in microbiology from the University of Texas at Austin before moving onto the University of Houston College of Medicine.

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