Novi Welcomes Local Doctor and Navy Veteran Ron Kuzdak
NOVI — The city of Novi is buzzing with excitement as Dr. Ron Kuzdak, a respected physician and dedicated U.S. Navy Reserve veteran, prepares to celebrate a milestone in his medical career on October 18. After serving in the Navy Reserve for an impressive 34 years and completing multiple military deployments, Kuzdak has established a patient-centered practice right here in Novi, named Gem Health and Wellness.
A Journey from Childhood Dreams to Military Service
Growing up in the Castle Rouge neighborhood of Detroit, Kuzdak knew early on that he wanted to become a doctor. With a natural affinity for math and science, his ambition was nurtured by encouraging words from family and teachers alike. “They would say, ‘Wow, you’re going to be a doctor one day,’ and it stuck with me,” Kuzdak recalled.
After graduating from Detroit Catholic Central High School in 1987, Kuzdak headed to Michigan State University. However, the financial burden of college soon weighed him down. A friend’s suggestion to join the Navy Reserve turned out to be a life-changing decision. “They offered a full-ride scholarship to medical school,” he explained. “So, I joined and went to hospital corpsman school in 1988.”
Military Service and Academic Journey
Kuzdak’s military career took off, including a deployment during Operation Desert Storm on the USNS Comfort hospital ship. “It was a time of great learning,” he said, as he navigated the dual challenges of working two jobs, drilling with the reserves, and studying hard, all while participating in the equestrian team.
By his senior year, Kuzdak’s hard work paid off as he was accepted into medical school with a full Navy scholarship. After completing his residency at Botsford Hospital in Farmington, he found himself once again called to serve—this time in Operation Iraqi Freedom. “We built one of the first tent hospitals,” Kuzdak reflected. “We were the only working hospital in Kuwait, so we dealt with all the casualties.”
Years of Dedication and Leadership
After returning home, Kuzdak continued his service with the Navy Reserve, taking on leadership roles such as being the officer in charge for the Detroit Navy Reserve Training Center. He was honored as the Officer of the Year for the U.S. Navy Reserve Medical Corps in 2013, solidifying his reputation as a dedicated and capable leader.
“The highlight of my career was the relationships I built along the way,” Kuzdak shared. His influence is clearly felt by those he worked with. Lt. Cmdr. Justin Peters, an active reservist, expressed his admiration, stating, “He is one of the best leaders I’ve ever worked with. His sense of humor made difficult situations manageable.”
Settling in Novi
After retiring from the military in 2022, Kuzdak and his family settled in Milford, where he is focused on practicing medicine his way. Together with his wife, Nancy, and their two sons, Kuzdak opened Gem Health and Wellness in Novi. This practice aims to provide a personalized healthcare experience, and Kuzdak is excited to build lasting relationships with his patients.
Celebration on the Horizon
To mark nearly a year of serving the community, Kuzdak will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 18 from 4 to 7 p.m. The event promises to be a joyous occasion, featuring a performance by Dave Gondoly, lead singer and guitarist for the Killer Flamingos.
In a world where patients often feel like just another number, Kuzdak aims to change that narrative. “Here, it’s definitely more personalized,” he stated, welcoming residents of Novi to experience his approach to healthcare.
As he embarks on this exciting chapter in his life, Kuzdak’s journey from a young dreamer in Detroit to a seasoned physician and Navy veteran serves as an inspiring story of dedication, service, and heartfelt commitment to healthcare.
