WMSHP

Michael S. Edwards, PharmD, MBA, BCOP

Mike is the Director of the Oncology Pharmacy Residency at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and the Chief of the Oncology Pharmacy. He has spent 20 years of pharmacy career as an officer in the United States Army and now serves as a civilian with the Army

Q:Why did you choose pharmacy profession?

While serving in the military after being drafted, I worked as a postal clerk in the Pentagon Dispensary. I never had enough to do so I would go work in the Pharmacy. That spurred my interest and I used my GI bill to go to pharmacy school once I was released from active duty.

Q:In what ways has being a pharmacist changed you as a person?

It has given me the opportunity to learn something new and useful every day.

Q:What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?

Helping oncology patients get through their chemotherapy. I love pediatric oncology the most.

Q:What or who is the greatest love of your life?

The "who" that is the greatest love of my life is my wife Evelyne. I also have 3 children that are loved. The “what” is travel. Evelyne and I try to get out of the country at least once or twice a year.

Q:How do you spend your free time?

Traveling, eating, and watching sports. Can’t participate much any longer.

Q:What is your favourite childhood memory?

Going camping with my family to Morro Bay, CA. We would surf fish and cook and sit around the camp fire.

Q:What is the book that changed your life?

I don’t think any book has changed my life. I first started to enjoy reading when I discovered the James Bond books as a teenager. Some of my favorites are: The Glass Castle, Freakonomics, and Atlas Shrugged. I always have at least two books going at the same time.

Q:Which living person do you most admire?

My father. He died at age 44 but had a great impact on me. He never went to college but could do anything.

Q:What medications do you always carry with you?

None. I take as few as possible.

Q:If you were a drug, what drug would you be and why?

I don‘t think we have it, yet. I want to cure cancer and change the underlying causes that allowed it to happen in the first place.

Q:What advice would you offer to a pharmacist just starting out?

1. Don‘t get too caught-up in yourself. 2. Remember, we are here for the patient. 3. Learn something new every day of your life.

Q:What is the most important lesson life has taught you?

Live life to the fullest because it is never long enough.