Soul of 78- Dr Roman Brantley
Nephrologist, Nephrology Associates P,C.
Words by Nick Norris | Image by Justin Hunter
At first glance, the study and treatment of kidneys may seem like a narrow branch of medicine. But for Dr. Roman Brantley, nephrology offers a wide range challenges that make every day unique.
“In some fields of medicine, you are mostly treating just a small piece of someone’s journey,” Dr. Brantley explains. “But oftentimes with nephrology, I get to help my patients from their initial diagnosis all the way to recovery.”
For many patients, that process may begin in Brantley’s office at Nephrology Associates, P.C., continue through dialysis under his care, and, if needed, culminate in a transplant and recovery. He stands beside his patients through every stage and celebrates with them when they are restored to health.
“That’s the most rewarding aspect of my job,” said Brantley, a graduate of Birmingham-Southern College and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. “Getting to see the whole story and being a part of the ups in their journey and not just the downs.”
That variety has kept Brantley passionate about nephrology for nearly 30 years.
“I think getting to do those different types of things every day is what makes the job worth it,” he says. “That and getting to work with the community.”
After decades of serving Jasper, Brantley has become a trusted presence in the area.
“I have been able to make so many amazing connections through my work,” he says. “I have gotten to help old childhood friends, treat former teachers of mine, and make new friends by treating the children of former patients who I’ve had the honor of getting to see grow up and become friends of mine in their own right. People who I know on a much deeper level than just being their doctor.”
For Brantley, medicine is as much about relationships as it is about treatment - a balance reflected in his personal life as well.
“I love spending time with my family, of course,” he says cheerfully. “I have an amazing wife, Linda, who was a surgeon’s assistant for the cardiac surgeons at UAB for many years before she retired and opened an antique shop. And I have a 28-year-old daughter who’s an engineer in Huntsville and a 25-year-old son who works at a veterinarian office and is pursuing a career in that field.
“I have quite a few hobbies as well. I love to fish, duck hunt, and golf. I got into woodworking a few years ago. Oh, and I must mention my five rescue cats. I love my cats.”
Brantley is a man of many talents and interests, but at his core, he is defined by his love for people - his patients, his family, and his community. His dedication to helping others, paired with his passion for living fully, has made him both a trusted physician and a positive influence in Walker County. 78