At iACT, we have great appreciation for the wonderful volunteers who make our service work possible! This Volunteer Spotlight features local dentist, Dr. William K. Thomson, who has generously donated his services to Ms. Rosa Lee Pennick, an iACT client whose story can be found here.
1. Where are you from, and how long have you been in dentistry?
I’m from Austin. Born raised ,went to school at Govalle elementary, Allen Jr. High, and Austin High. I entered UT in 1961, transferred to Texas Wesleyan in 1963 and was accepted into Dental School at The University of Texas Dental Branch in 1964. I graduated from Dental School in 1968 and served 2 years in the US Navy as a Dentist. I came back to Austin and set up practice in 1970 and have been here in Austin ever since.
2. Why did you choose to become a dentist?
I chose Dentistry because I liked working with people, small things and fixing things.
3. How did you hear Ms. Pennick’s story?
I worked through our local Dental society,The Capital Area Dental Society, and volunteered to treat Mrs. Pennick without knowing much about this wonderful, giving lady. Once I met her and visited with her, I fell in love with her, her story, her feelings to help and serve others.
4. What motivated you to offer your services to Ms. Pennick?
Here is a lady that has problems of her own but she was more interested in helping those she was taking care of than herself. When I asked her if she could make multiple visits to my office to get her dental health in better shape, she told me she could but she had to arrange for her residents as her first priority. From that day forward I wanted to help and visit with this lady. I knew I could give her back her smile and I would never have a more appreciative patient.
5. What has your experience with Ms. Pennick been like so far?
Rosa Lee Penick brings joy when she comes in the room. Her firm handshake, her genuine smile, her positive attitude and her heartwarming stories makes my day better for having the privilege of just being there with her.
6. What are you most looking forward to about retirement?
I look towards retirement with mixed feelings. I will truly miss my relationships with my patients and friends. For almost 50 years I’ve gone to “the office”. and practiced a profession that I have dearly loved. I have looked forward to each and everyday as a gift to be able to do what I enjoy , to love and serve those who allow me the privilege to take care of their needs. Now the time has come to do other things I hope will bring me a different kind of joy. I have 4 beautiful grandchildren I want to be able to spend more time with. To go to their schools, have lunch with them and to their sports activities. I want to play a bit more golf, go spend time at get aways , travel with my wife of 48 years and do some volunteering.
7. If you could sum up your personal philosophy of life in a few sentences, what would it be?
“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Always be willing to give first. I thank God everyday for my health, family, and happiness.
