Peoria native Dr. Michele Couri graduated from Bradley University with a bachelor’s degree in biology before going on to medical school at the University of Illinois College of Medicine.
She completed her residency at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, where she served as chief resident from 2000 to 2001, after which she went into private practice. She lives in Peoria with her husband, Timothy, and their six children: John, Lauren, Elle, Mia, Charlie and Caroline.
- What is your favorite retreat? Going to our lake house in Minocqua, Wisconsin, or to the French Quarter in New Orleans. Both places speak directly to my soul. I have been going to Minocqua since childhood, and New Orleans will forever be my “home away from home.”
- What do you consider your greatest achievement? Balancing being the mother of six amazing and beautiful children (age 11 and under, including two sets of twins) with being a dedicated physician and business owner.
- What is your favorite smell? My mom’s kitchen. As one of the most amazing cooks I know, she always has something very yummy in the oven or on the stove. You will never leave her house hungry.
- What is your most treasured possession? My health. Health is a privilege to be cherished. Health is the real ticket to freedom, but does require dedication and commitment to doing what is right for it to be optimal. Just like our freedom, our health should never be taken for granted.
- Who are your heroes in real life? My patients who are suffering with severe chronic disease or terminal illness, who are so upbeat and actually express gratitude for all of their blessings. They truly inspire me and teach me life’s precious lessons every day. It is a privilege to serve them.
- What social issue fires you up? Our government subsidizing the unhealthiest food on the planet followed by the hypocrisy of the U.S. food industry in so cleverly marketing it to our youth.
- What’s on your iPod? Every song Jimmy Buffett ever recorded, James Taylor, Etta James, Gladys Knight, Van Morrison, Jersey Boys soundtrack.
- What is your biggest pet peeve? LED light bulbs and pharmaceutical drug commercials.
- Which famous person, dead or alive, would you like to meet? Nelson Mandela. His lessons in forgiveness are incredibly inspirational to me.
- What is your favorite time of day? Sitting around the dinner table with my husband and children, listening to all their stories about their day. Their voices and bursts of laughter are a wonderful symphony that makes my day complete. God has truly blessed me. a&s
