Dr. Michelle Pfeffer
Michelle Pfeffer, MD, spent many childhood days navigating Akron Children’s, as her mother, Margaret Pfeffer, MD, worked as a pediatrician at Akron Children’s Pediatrics, Akron for 30 years.
“My mom would bring my siblings and I to her office to see our pediatrician. From an early age I found Akron Children’s to be a welcoming place. Everyone is so supportive, and I enjoy returning to Austintown to help those in the community where I grew up,” shares Dr. Pfeffer.
Why did you choose to work in pediatric primary care?
It was easy to choose pediatrics, because kids are more fun than adults! I get to play detective with infants who cannot tell me what is wrong and laugh with toddlers and school age kids as they learn.
In primary care, pediatricians treat all age groups from healthy well checks to various illnesses. This setting provides the opportunity to maintain a longitudinal relationship with my patients, encouraging them to be healthy and reach their full potential.
What unique or different skills do you have that help you practice medicine?
I am very curious. I want to know about my patient’s lives beyond the acute complaint they are coming in for. I am also a dedicated hard worker and will do my best for each of my patients.
How do you deal with the emotional impact of being a provider?
Having close coworkers with shared experiences to talk to and reassure one another is helpful. I also like to end my day with an outdoor activity. I enjoy going on long walks, bike riding or sitting on my porch to read and clear my mind.
Dr. Pfeffer and her mom, Margaret, at Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming.
Who makes up your family, including pets and their names?
My Mom, Margaret, dad, Greg, brothers, Joe and John, and sister, Lizzie. My parents have two dogs, Bella, and Charlie.
What makes the best part of your day?
The best part of my day is my morning. I do yoga and then make breakfast, which is my favorite meal. This allows me to try to sit down and enjoy it. It’s a calming routine that helps get me started each day.
Dr. Pfeffer with her family in Ireland.
What is the last adventure you went on?
My last adventure was to Ireland with my family. We took a road trip around half of the island and saw many beautiful things including the Great Blasket Island, the Cliffs of Moher, the Gap of Dunloe, the Guinness storehouse and many waterfalls and castles. One of my favorite adventures yet!
