Volunteer Highlight: Meet Sava

In 1992, Chris and Debbie Douridas moved from Ontario, Canada to Pinellas County, Florida, seeking new opportunities before starting a family. Between 1996 and 2001, they welcomed three sons and raised them in a home where education and curiosity were highly valued. Today, one of those sons, Sava Douridas, serves as the volunteer Scribe Coordinator at the Clearwater Free Clinic. 

Debbie, as stay-at-home mother, and education advocate nurtured her sons' interest in science from an early age. The Douridas household became a hub of exploration, filled with discussions on anatomy, biology, and chemistry, fostering a deep appreciation for learning. "My dad was in sales, and my mother was our caretaker... a lot of the opportunities I’ve had come from her. She made sure we understood the importance of education and instilled in us a love for science," Sava reflects. 

Sava's passion for medicine is not just an academic pursuit but a personal mission to help others. Guided by his mother’s teachings, he is committed to giving back to the community, volunteering not only at the Clearwater Free Clinic but also at Mease Countryside Hospital and Random Acts of Flowers in Dunedin, Florida. 

Sava’s close relationship with his brothers, Nicholas, and Lucas, who share his dedication to the medical field, has further fueled his resolve. The trio, all pre-med students at the University of South Florida support each other through the rigors of their education. As Sava prepares for medical school, his journey of making a difference is just beginning.

Are you ready to join Sava and the rest of the Clinic’s volunteer team?