Q: What sparked your interest to focus in Breast Surgery?
A: I have always been intrigued by cancer biology and the tremendous impact a cancer diagnosis can have on a person’s life. For most types of breast cancers, surgery and other adjunct therapies can be quite effective and potentially curative. The field is always evolving and leading the way in evidence-based, personalized, thoughtful cancer care, and I find it really rewarding to help women navigate their way through this challenging process.
Q: Who was your role model growing up?
A: My mother – her strength and dedication to taking care of her community for over 25 years as a family doctor has always motivated me to be a better person, physician, and surgeon. In awe, I’ve watched the way she brings peace to her patients’ lives as an all-around healer. She has always encouraged me and my siblings to work hard, have faith, be kind, and do what makes us happy. I followed her footsteps into medicine and hope to build as strong of a connection to my work and community as she.
Q: What are some of your hobbies outside of the work environment?
A: Reading books for fun and learning, writing poetry, trying new restaurants and spending time outdoors with my dog.
Q: What’s your favorite thing about the city of Pittsburgh?
A: The pride and close-knit community you can feel among the people here. Most people I meet have this great love for their city that is reflected in how they talk about the food, music, and sports.