Dr. J. Mark Matthews

Dr. Matthews was born and raised in coastal North Carolina. Taking up guitar in his teens and desiring a career in music, he hit the road with his band while still a teen. He soon found it difficult to meet routine living expenses, much less afford health insurance. This prompted his return to university and his eventual career path as a physician.

Currently, Dr. Matthews is a retired anesthesiologist, having worked at St. Luke's Hospital, Kansas City's largest tertiary care hospital, with 5 years as Dept. Chairman of Anesthesiology at SLH, KC. Over the years he has witnessed first hand the physical and emotional toll of losing a limb in others, and feels privileged to have the opportunity to help in a different capacity with SOF. He has also served on the board of directors for Sweet Relief Musician's Fund since 2008.