Med School/Year Graduated: Mercer University School of Medicine, 2014
Years in Practice: 6
Is “rad onc” a branch of radiology, or do you need to train as an oncologist first? Or is it an independent field, in terms of the residency roadmap?
It’s a wholly independent field. We complete one preliminary year or intern year, typically in internal medicine, followed by four years of radiation-oncology-specific training.
What inspired you to choose the field?
As a pre-med student, I walked with my grandfather through his journey with lung cancer. I shared several meaningful months with him before he passed away, and that stayed with me. Radiation oncology felt like the perfect blend of a visual, anatomy-based specialty and impactful patient relationships.
What are the most common conditions and parts of the body you treat?
Breast cancer is the most common cancer I treat and the most common cancer in women. Radiation is an integral part of its management. I also treat a significant number of skin cancers, head and neck cancers, and lung cancers.
How can low-dose radiotherapy help treat benign musculoskeletal conditions? Which conditions can it benefit?
This is a very interesting and exciting use of radiation. Low-dose radiotherapy is a non-invasive treatment that can shift cell signaling from pro-inflammatory to anti-inflammatory, helping reduce pain. It can help relieve symptoms from osteoarthritis, plantar fasciitis, trigger finger, tendonitis and bursitis.
You minored in women’s studies for your undergrad degree. Has that knowledge impacted your practice?
I think that field of study showed me that every person and every group of people have their own unique story shaped by their experiences. That impacts how they interact with the world and the challenges they face. Taking time to understand someone’s background is an important piece of being a truly compassionate and empathetic physician.
You’re interested in desert gardening! Which plants are exciting you most lately?
Hearty succulents, cacti and palm trees – especially ones that aren’t too particular about what they need. I love plants in general, but my gardening projects sometimes get neglected, and desert gardening is forgiving in that way!
If I wasn’t a doctor, I’d be…
Maybe something creative and story-driven, like a musician or a writer. I’ve always enjoyed creative outlets and admired people who can pursue them deeply, and I would have loved to explore that more.
