Dr. Jim Kelly, is the founder and namesake of Dr. Jim Kelly Dentistry in Phoenix. His motto: “No Shot, No Drill, No Pain Dentistry” sets him apart from the pack. As a WaterLase Dentist, Jim’s rock-star appearance, zen-like mentality and state-of-the-art equipment give his patients something truly Fabulous to smile about.
Hometown: Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
First Job: Lemoyne Minit Car Wash. I started working weekends at my family’s full service car wash when I was 12 years old. My grandfather and father were the owners and they would pay me one dollar an hour for drying off cars, cleaning car interiors, and laundering towels. I continued working at the car wash while home on holiday breaks through college and dental school when I could. It was through the hard work of my parents and grandparents at the car wash that I was able to attend college and dental school.
Favorite Arizona restaurant: True Food Kitchen. Having a lifestyle based on nutrition and fitness is why True Food Kitchen in Scottsdale is my favorite restaurant in Arizona. The cuisine is Contemporary American, Mediterranean, Fusion, Vegan and Vegetarian Health Food. My favorite entree is the Spaghetti Squash Casserole with Scottish Steelhead Salmon. True Food Kitchen in Scottsdale is truly a fun and healthy place to dine with my family and friends!
Person who has impacted your life the most: There are many people who have greatly impacted my life, from my parents and grandparents to my brother and my daughter. However, the one person who has impacted my life the most is my wife, Sherrie. Sherrie is a very intelligent, compassionate, spiritual, and open minded person. My life changed in so many positive ways when I met her 15 years ago.
Your biggest accomplishment in your eyes: No matter what I may accomplish in my lifetime, my biggest accomplishment is, and always will be, our only child and daughter, Carrie Anne. Carrie Anne is a remarkable young woman who my wife and I love and admire very much. Her vision, wisdom, and work ethic as a professional photographer and artist far exceeds that of most people much older than her 25 years. She is an inspiration to all who have the pleasure of knowing her!
The biggest obstacle you have overcome: Myself. I have learned that negative self talk, self doubt and the lack of a good work ethic are roadblocks to achievement and success. I reach my goals through self confident thoughts that are sustained by knowledge, desire, faith, hard work and acceptance. I just need to get out of my own way sometimes!
Someone who inspires you: I have been inspired over the years, not by someone, but rather by the love and support given to me by my immediate family, both alive and departed. Everyone, including my wife’s side of the family, have helped each other overcome certain adversities over the years. Although we are spread out across the country we remain firmly bonded through the love we have for each other.
Favorite Quote: Our sixth President of the United States, John Quincy Adams once said, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.”
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do:
Three Things:
1) Observe an established dentist in their work place to gain a better understanding of both the business and patient care aspects of dentistry. See if dentistry is a career you can be passionate about.
2) Maintain excellent grades through high school, college, and dental school.
3) Once you become a dentist, always keep on the cutting edge of new technology and never stop learning.
What makes someone fabulous: You become fabulous by believing in yourself, negotiating for yourself, and owning your own success.
To learn more about Dr. Jim Kelly and his dentistry practice, visit drkellydds.com.
Jim and his wife Sherrie are great people to be around. They know I am deaf and easily understanding lip reading. I am looking forward to know them more when I will see Jim for dentists follow up.