San Francisco doctor's steady hand masters the art of surgery
Share and Follow

SAN FRANCISCO — Artistry and precision are two essential qualities that define the work of both an artist and a surgeon. These skills demand discipline, creativity, and a steady hand, traits that Dr. Don Hershman embodies in his dual roles.

Dr. Hershman, who is both a board-certified surgeon and an acclaimed artist based in San Francisco, exemplifies the fusion of these two demanding fields. “There’s a part of my brain that activates during both painting and surgery,” he explains. “The blank canvas is intimidating, much like the start of a surgery. Both are an adventure fueled by creative energy, a perspective few have, as surgeons and artists rarely overlap in their pursuits.”

Despite the unconventional pairing of his careers, Hershman has achieved recognition in both realms. His art has graced numerous solo and group exhibitions across the United States and internationally. Among his diverse themes, one that stands out is the concept of code-switching. This series explores the practice of altering language, tone, and behavior to suit various social environments.

“People often modify their language to blend in,” Hershman shares, reflecting on his personal journey as a gay man in medical school. “Back then, being openly gay was not an option if you wanted to succeed in surgical training. It was just the reality of the times, and though it required code-switching, I never felt victimized by it.”

“People adjust their language to fit in. I can only speak for my experience as a gay man going through medical school having to code-switch. Back in the day, being gay was completely unacceptable and you couldnt get through your surgical training if you were out. I didnt feel victimized by it, because it’s just the way thigs were,” Hershman said.

Hershman continues to flourish in both professions and says they compliment each other in practice.

“It doesnt matter whether a patient is a privileged patient or someone that is poor, discriminated against or marginalized. When they are in that chair, they are just a patient. Everybody is equal. Everything flattens right out. It gives you a bird’s-eye view of the world in that way.Healthcare, that’s the privilege of it, and it makes you more human. As an artist, it makes me a better artist,” Hershman said.

Learn more here.

Now Streaming 24/7 Click Here
Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Ryan Wedding: FBI seizes $13 million Mercedes CLK-GTR Roadster connected to former Olympian turned alleged drug kingpin

FBI Confiscates $13 Million Mercedes CLK-GTR Roadster Linked to Former Olympian and Alleged Drug Kingpin

The FBI has taken possession of a rare automobile valued at $13…
Netflix and Nickelodeon Voice Actor Tony Germano Dies at 55 After Fatal Fall at Home

Beloved Netflix and Nickelodeon Voice Actor Tony Germano Passes Away at 55 Following Tragic Home Accident

Tony Germano, a renowned Brazilian actor and voice artist known for his…
ICE in Chicago: Federal agents engaged in widespread misrepresentations to justify use of force, Judge Ellis says

Chicago ICE Agents Accused of Misleading Tactics to Justify Force, Judge Ellis Reveals

CHICAGO (WLS) — In a revealing investigation, the ABC7 I-Team delves into…
FILE - Justin Thomas hits from the seventh tee during the first round of the Tournament of Champions golf tournament at Kapalua Plantation Course on Kapalua, Hawaii, Jan. 7, 2016. (AP Photo/Matt York, File)

Hawaii’s Water Woes Lead to Major Tournament Loss for Renowned Golf Course

HONOLULU (AP) — Nestled on the slopes of the west Maui mountains,…
Calls for Anthony Fauci be prosecuted amid Trump's autopen declaration

Legal Storm: Trump’s Autopen Sparks Prosecution Demands Against Fauci

In a fervent wave of criticism, right-wing figures are calling for legal…
Gas prices drop below $3 per gallon, lowest since 2021

Gas Prices Plummet to Two-Year Low: Now Under $3 Per Gallon

(NewsNation) — In a surprising shift, gas prices have dipped below $3…
Virginia high school football coach goes missing during team's undefeated season

Family Reports Fugitive Football Coach Vanishes into Forest Armed with Firearm

A Virginia high school football coach, who became the subject of a…
'Kipekee,' the spotless giraffe born at Tennessee zoo, has died

Unique Spotless Giraffe ‘Kipekee’ Passes Away at Tennessee Zoo

In the serene setting of Brights Zoo in Limestone, Tennessee, a truly…