Complete Story
02/24/2026
Membership Spotlight
Get to know Second Vice President Dr. Aaron Deol!
Members are the heart of OHFAMA. Whether they are volunteering their time, leading the profession, or serving their communities, our members inspire us every day and help our community thrive. Stay tuned to learn more about the podiatric physicians who keep Ohioans on their feet!
Why did you become a podiatric physician?
I have always had a passion for sports medicine. As a high school athlete, I was fascinated by the biomechanics behind injuries and recovery, which led me to shadow a sports medicine physician during my undergraduate years. Although it was a valuable experience, I quickly realized it was not quite what I had envisioned for my future. While exploring other paths in medicine, I came across podiatric medicine and reached out to a local podiatrist, Dr. Michael Canales, who graciously allowed me to spend time with him. In just a few days, I was able to see the full scope of the profession—from surgery and wound care to clinic-based care—and I was immediately drawn to the diversity and impact of the field. I quickly noticed how much he truly cared about his patients and how he taught and encouraged students and residents, which felt very different from the other shadowing experiences I had in various medical specialties. Being in that environment made it clear to me that this was exactly what I had been looking for.
Can you tell me a little bit about your practice?
My wife and I started our own private practice, Twinsburg Family Medicine and Foot & Ankle Center, right out of residency. By combining podiatry and family medicine under one roof, we were able to offer a different kind of patient experience from day one. From check-in to check-out, we personally handle every aspect of the practice. Our goal has been to recreate the “mom-and-pop” style of medicine that many of our parents and grandparents grew up with—care that is personal, accessible, and rooted in long-term relationships with our patients. Our patients have truly become family to us as we have grown this practice the past 3 years.
Why did you get involved in OHFAMA leadership?
I completed my residency at Aultman Alliance Community Hospital, where my program director, Dr. Leslie Niehaus, required all residents to attend the Mideast Ohio Academy meetings. It was there that I learned the ins and outs of OHFAMA and, by my third year of residency, had the opportunity to serve as vice president of the academy. Fortunately, my private practice remained within the Mideast Academy region after graduation, and I went on to become president the following year—a role I continue to hold today.
The Mideast Academy has been a major influence in my decision to pursue a position on the executive committee. Watching Dr. Thomas Arnold serve as OHFAMA president a few years ago sparked my interest in becoming more involved at the state level. Before being nominated for second vice president, I had a meaningful conversation with Dr. Arnold that further solidified my desire to join the executive committee and continue serving our profession.
What is something people may not know about you?
I was born in England, and my parents moved to the US when I was just one year old. The values I carry today are rooted in their hard work and their commitment to ensuring I could pursue any path I desired. They were also instrumental in helping us establish our private practice. I am Sikh, and one of our core principles is Seva, which means “selfless service.” Through involvement with the OHFAMA Executive Committee, I hope to continue serving the podiatric profession and supporting the physicians who helped me reach where I am today.
