By Connor Behrens
For John Luke Pierron, a career in medicine is a family affair. His mother, April Pierron, a dedicated health care professional, introduced him to the field at an early age. Now, the two regularly cross paths and work together at UTMB.
“She used to take me to work with her occasionally, and I loved seeing her in action,” Luke said. “Watching her make a difference in her patients’ lives, even in small ways, inspired me to follow in her footsteps.”
April, who moved to Galveston in the 1980s and began her career in health care, works as an occupational therapist in acute care in the Department of Rehabilitation Services. Her focus is on supporting patients during one of the most challenging phases of recovery.
“We see patients right after they’ve been stabilized—those who often have splints or other serious conditions,” April said. “Our job is to recommend equipment, follow-up care or the next steps after they leave the hospital. That’s my role.”
April occasionally collaborates with Luke, a physical therapist who provides medical care to incarcerated patients at Hospital Galveston.
“Sometimes I work at the prison hospital,” April said. “When I do, I’ll have patients there, and Luke and I will end up working with the same person. It’s wonderful because we have a great rapport and remain very professional. Most people don’t even realize we’re mother and son.”
Luke cherishes the opportunity to treat patients alongside his mother.
“It’s always a good time when we work together, he said. “And she doesn’t hesitate to brag about me—like any proud mother would.”
Each day presents unique challenges and diagnoses, but Luke finds his work rewarding, often drawing on the lessons his mother taught him.
“My mom has always emphasized kindness and unbiased treatment of others,” Luke said. “That mindset has been invaluable, especially when working with the prison population.”
April’s decades of experience have taught her the importance of kindness and compassion, and she’s grateful to have passed that approach on to her son.
“I’ll be 74 in April, and I’m proud to still help people with my knowledge and experience,” April said. “I’ve had a lot of life experiences that help me connect with my patients. Many are older, so I can relate to their perspective and build rapport quickly.”
Despite the challenges of working in a prison setting, Luke finds meaning and inspiration in his role.
“Most of the time, the prisoners are very appreciative of what we do,” he said. “It’s a privilege to make a difference, just like my mom has done throughout her career.”