After graduating from the University of the Witwatersrand, he completed his internship at Groote Schuur and worked at Khayelitsha day hospital, the emergency unit of Victoria Hospital before working at Red Cross Children’s Hospital where he obtained his Diploma in Child Health.

During this time he also completed Advanced Cardiac, Trauma and Paediatric Life Support courses.

Mark then spent time working as a Paediatrician in training in Oxford and in Auckland.

He has completed a course with the American Association of Aesthetic Medicine (AAAM) specialising in Botox, fillers and chemical peels.

Mark also graduated with an MBA from UCT where his thesis covered, “The role of burnout in skills retention of Junior Doctors and Red Cross Children’s Hospital.” This was published in the South African Medical Journal, resulting in the opening of 3 more posts at Red Cross.

His experience covers the medical systems in South Africa, the UK and New Zealand.

It comes as no surprise then that Dr Porter has selected Dr Stodel to fill his shoes. He has been described by a patient from his previous practice as being a ‘brilliant family doctor.’

Dr Stodel was picked out of many applications to take over the practice from Dr Porter. Dr Porter felt that Dr Stodel had the attributes to continue the practice that Dr Porter took 47 years to build.

Dr Stodel, an ‘old school practitioner’ with the latest medical knowledge and trends says he is delighted at the opportunity:  “I was looking for a family orientated practice that offers a comprehensive and personal service to the local community.” To this end he will continue Dr Porter’s philosophy of Availability, Affability, and Ability.