Mary K. Kukolich, MD

What profession is still fascinating after 40 years? For Dr. Kukolich medical genetics is that intriguing, as is working with children. She began seeing patients at Fort Worth Children’s in 1977 and has been full time with Cook Children's since 1995.​ Without a doubt she is most proud of the work she has done with patients and their families over the years. And she enjoys mentoring medical students who are completing their clinical genetics rotation.

"Genetics requires that you enjoy continuing to learn and you have to do research on behalf of your patients - as the world of genetics is constantly changing."

She trained in New York and Seattle, and eventually came to Texas for just "a couple of years of experience." What swayed her to stay were the opportunities at Cook Children's, as well as playing golf, growing flowers and escaping to Angel Fire, New Mexico.

Dr. Kukolich has also been on the March of Dimes Advisory Board for 25 years. She has coached girls soccer for 10 years in Denton. Many of those athletes were 11-12 years old when she started coaching them and a handful have gone on to medical school.