Dr. Laird was born in Kilgore, Texas where he attended primary and secondary school as well as 2 years at Kilgore College. In high school, he played tennis and soccer. His work at Kilgore College prepared him to transfer to Texas A&M University. At Texas A&M he studied Bio-Medical Science and graduated with honors in 1993. He originally went to Texas A&M to go to Veterinary Medical School, but ultimately decided he would miss human patient interaction and decided to go to Podiatric Medical School. While in college, he was active with the Texas A&M cycling club. He chose Podiatric Medicine due to his love of Sports Medicine.
Dr Laird attended Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine in Miami Shores, Florida from 1993 to 1997. After graduation, he completed 4 years of Residency training in Miami. His First 3 years were at a small private Hospital named Westchester General Hospital. His first two years were focused on Primary Podiatric Medicine. His third year at Westchester General was focused on Foot and Ankle Surgery.
Dr. Laird’s fourth year of residency was focused on Sports Medicine and Pediatric Medicine. He had the opportunity to work with athletes from high school, 3 local Universities as well as with Professional Athletes. After his Sports Medicine Fellowship, Dr. Laird passed rigorous examinations to become a Fellow of the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine (AAPSM.) He is active in the care of local athletes of all ages, including world-class athletes at Nathan Benderson Park. He has worked with Athletic Trainers and athletes from local high schools.
Dr. Laird is Board Certified in foot surgery by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery. He is a member of the American Podiatric Medial Association, the Florida Podiatric Medial Association and a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. He has been published in the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association.
Dr. Laird’s interests outside of medicine include cycling, on and off road. He is married and has 2 young children. He enjoys spending time with them and enjoying all west coast of Florida has to offer.