When Dr. Aaron Waggie was growing up in Perry, Iowa, he decided he wanted to either be an Olympic gold medalist in the 100-meter dash or be president of the United States.

It was in high school when he decided he wanted to be a doctor.

“When I was in high school my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and I saw the way that caring, compassionate physicians made such a difference in her care,” Dr. Waggie says.

His family also inspired his choice of pediatrics.

“I come from a family of teachers,” he says. “Both my parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, my twin sister and brother-in-law are all teachers. I love the fact that being a pediatrician is being an educator to both our patients and their families that care for them.”

Dr. Waggie works in our walk-in clinic several days a week. He graduated with a degree in biology from Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa, graduated from Kansas City University and completed his residency at Children’s Mercy Hospital. He is also Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Missouri and the Assistant Clerkship Director for Child Health for the medical students.

“It is so important to have a healthcare team that you trust and have open communication with,” Dr. Waggie says when asked his advice for new parents when looking for pediatrics’ office. “You should be able to have all your concerns and questions answered.”

He is married to Gabe Schifman, who is also in Pediatric Emergency Medicine. They have two children – Noah and Ava. The family enjoys traveling, and Dr. Waggie is a big college sports fan, especially the Iowa Hawkeyes.