April 23, 2021
Nelson Adamson, MD, Radiation Oncologist
I grew up in rural South Carolina. My father was a farmer and my siblings and I put in long hours. My mom finished high school and one year of college, and my father only went through eighth grade because of the circumstances. But they always stressed the importance of education and working hard.
I was a kid during the civil rights movement and I remember going to the doctor’s office. There were separate waiting rooms and it was common for my family members to spend the whole day there and not be seen. Meanwhile, I recognized that patients of another color were being seen. That was the reality of the way things happened and it served as motivation for me in my career. When I graduated from Harvard Medical School, I remember it was a big deal because it was difficult for my father to take time off from the farm. But he made the drive to Boston and spent the day. Both of my parents have since passed, but I attribute a lot of my success to the wisdom and attitude they imparted on me.
I’ve been practicing medicine almost half of my life now and have been at CentraCare – Monticello for about 10 years. I like being able to spend time with my patients as they traverse their cancer journey. The pace of medicine can oftentimes feel hurried and rushed, but the pace at which we practice is a lot more deliberate. I get to spend more time with people, I get to know them, and that’s really what I enjoy.
Thank you for sharing your story. Commitment. Purpose. Transformation. I can only imagine your parents’ pride.
Dr. Adamson,
Thank you so much for sharing your story. I can only imagine how every aspect of your parents journey and your journey lends to the care that you provide your patients. CentraCare is fortunate to have you!
Meagan
Dr. Adamson. I remember you coming for your interview at St. Cloud years ago. It was a honor and privilege to work with you. Your calm demeanor and kind heart to every patient and employee is inspiring. I certainly miss seeing you and talking with you. I always walk away from you feeling such joy. Hope you are well.
What a wonderful story, how inspiring! Thanks for your dedication to patient care and walking with them in their journey through the darkness of cancer.
Thanks for sharing your why!! It shows how farmers help their kids have “good and deep roots”.
Thank you Dr. Adamson for sharing your story and for the work that you do! Your work in Oncology makes a huge impact in the community and truly changes lives. Also thank you for giving a voice to those who too often go unheard.
Hi Nelson! Thank you for sharing your history. You’re the best!
Thanks for sharing your story Nelson. We greatly appreciate the work that you do, taking care of some of our most vulnerable patients. Monticello and CentraCare are fortunate to have you.
Joe
Thank you for sharing your story!! Your dedication is appreciated!!