Dr. Holly Swanson, MD Board Certified Pediatrican Joined Practice In: 1996 Resides In: Slingerlands, NY City, State of Birth: Charleston, SC Raised In: Brunswick, ME Education: Colby College, Waterville ME for BA 1982-1986 University of Vermont College of Medicine 1987-1991 Maine Medical Center, Pediatric Residency 1991-1994 Pediatric Infectious Disease Fellowship 1994-1996 Special Certifications: Board Certified in Pediatrics Associations: Fellow in the American Academy of Pediatrics Medical Society State of New York Capital District Medical Society

Dr. Holly Swanson (see My Story below)

Family: Married with 2 daughters, 8 years and 1 year

Hobbies: Gardening, Sewing, Crafts

Special Recognitions or Awards: Maine Medical Center Pediatric Teaching Award 1993

I was raised on the coast of Maine, the youngest of 5 children. My father was a radiologist and often quizzed me on the x-rays he would read. I loved baby-sitting, playing with children and sometimes acting like a kid. I excelled at science. All these factors naturally lead me towards becoming a pediatrician. I went to medical school at the University of Vermont and did my pediatric training at Maine Medical Center. I came to the Albany area to complete a fellowship in pediatric infectious disease. During this time I was able to participate in the care of some very complicated patients. I even had the opportunity to go twice to the Dominican Republic and do some mission work. It was a fascinating experience and makes me truly appreciate our own medical system, despite its drawbacks. Although Infectious Disease was very interesting and practical, I found myself yearning for the patient continuity and close rapport that comes with private practice.

I joined Delmar Pediatrics in 1996. Since then I have enjoyed providing service to such a wonderful and close knit community, but also watching these infants and young children grow and thrive. I believe strongly in preventative medicine including routine physicals, education of parents and patients, and immunizations. I truly enjoy what I do. Everyday some child makes me laugh and reminds me what life and my job are all about.

I am happily married and have 2 girls. My experience as a mother has been indispensable as a physician, as I can relate to many of the problems with which my patients and parents are dealing. My first daughter was 2 months premature and we have dealt with apnea of prematurity, severe gastroesophageal reflux and pyelonephritis (kidney infections). We have also adopted a little girl from China. I am intimately familiar with the anxiety of the entire adoption process. I am pleased to say at the time of this writing, both Gabriella at 8 years old, and Asia at 17 months old are healthy and happy.

Although my family and Pediatrics are my first passions, I keep my hand in many other activities. I enjoy gardening and was pleased to be in the 2006 Bethlehem Garden Tour. I am starting a small craft business on the side called "Family on a Stick." It is a very personalized craft/toy that binds family. In some fashion, it is a way of integrating my first two passions.

I feel I have enjoyed a wonderful professional and personal life. I'd like to end with a quote by Ralph Waldo Emmerson

The Definition of Success

To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.

Call our office at (518) 439-2273 to schedule an appointment with me. I look forward to meeting you and your family.