Urban Residents
Where are you from?
The first half of my life was nomadic up and down the east coast-- I lived in 9 places by the time I turned 13. Since then, Texas has been home: high school in DFW, college in Waco, working in Amarillo, and med school in Austin. So still a little nomadic, but more yeehaw.
Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?
I found the Cahaba Urban folks at a conference during MS3 year and got so excited. Increasing access to care in low-resource settings has been my passion for a long time, and I had dreamed of eventually living and working in the same neighborhood, where patients are neighbors. I thought I'd need to finish training before that could become a reality. But that wasn't the case! That was happening right here. A large number of Cahaba residents and attendings live in the West End neighborhood, within a half-mile radius of the clinic where they work and train.
I spent a month here on an away rotation during fall of MS4 year, walked to work everyday, and was hooked. This program had a number of things that were on my short list— a clinic flow and curriculum structure that created a high ratio of continuity with patients during residency, a panel of patients that included folks across the full age spectrum, a track record of program responsiveness to resident feedback, and ample opportunities for training in skills I wanted to master, such as women’s health procedures and SUD treatment.
But more than that, I was surrounded by people I want to become more like. So much of medical education can be de-formative, but I watched as folks showed deep love, humility, and compassion toward patients and each other. I am so grateful to be here, learning from the folks in this neighborhood and this program.
Undergrad:
Baylor University. Sic 'em.
Med school:
Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
I'll do anything that allows me to have a really good conversation or a new adventure-- dinners, coffee, walks, roadtrips, backpacking, doing my own car repairs from YouTube videos, etc. I'm the oldest and uncoolest of 5 kids. I have an 11/10 good girl pup named Penelope who is passionate about chasing squirrels and making friends.
What is your favorite food to cook?
Chocolate chip cookies always and forever
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
I love going back to the places that feel like home and make my heart sing! To my family; to my people in Austin, TX; to Lake Toxaway, NC where my grandparents live on the land their grandparents lived on; and to a little community on the Nyakach Plateau in Kenya that has captured my heart forever
What drives you?
To know & love others, as Christ fully knows and loves me.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
Outpatient primary care
Where are you from?
I was born in Gadsden, AL, but I grew up in a smaller town nearby called Southside. Currently, my wife and our three kids live in Trussville.
Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?
When I finished college, becoming a doctor was not on my radar at all. I had recently become a Christian and felt led into some sort of ministry. At the time I didn’t know what that would mean, but soon found myself working in youth ministry at a church near my hometown. I did this for 4 years as I investigated what Jesus might have me do with my life. After shadowing my own family doctor, I saw how medicine and ministry can merge so well! It became very clear what God was calling me to do.
Our very own, Dr. Lucas Kane first pointed me to Cahaba after meeting him while I was a medical student at UAB. I soon found myself spending lots of time on the website and watching all the info videos (too many times to count). After rotating at multiple sites as a student I realized Cahaba was the real deal. It was so encouraging to see medicine practiced with an eternal mindset, and I knew I wanted to become like the doctors I saw around me. I was even more impressed with the community that exists within Cahaba, and I knew my wife and kids would be welcomed just as much as me.
The icing on the cake is the broad scope training Cahaba has to offer. I knew I wanted to be well trained to handle the full spectrum of Family Medicine and I felt confident I would be trained to do so here.
Undergrad:
University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)
Med school:
UAB Heersink School of Medicine
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
When I’m not working you can find me spending as much time as possible with my wife and kids. This may look like playing in the yard, going for a walk, or watching a Disney movie for the 100th time. I also like to play golf, piano, guitar, and cook on the flat top griddle.
What is your favorite food to cook?
Smash Burgers. Super simple and super delicious!
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
Italy or Southern Spain
What drives you?
I hope to be found faithful in the eyes of The Lord with the life He has given me. I am also driven by my wonderful wife and kids, whom I love dearly.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
I hope to practice broad scope Family Medicine somewhere in Alabama.
Where are you from?
Cincinnati, Ohio
Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?
I loved the culture at Cahaba when I interviewed and rotated. Everyone looked out for each other, worked hard and had a lot of fun together. The mission that drives Cahaba to take care of underserved patients and communities is something that I was looking for in a program. The program also met my professional goals. I was looking for a place with a lot of opportunities to train in obstetrics and women’s health. I also liked that I could get well rounded training with procedures and inpatient medicine. The opportunity to do a global health rotation every year is unique to the program and fits my desire to work in global health. Finally, my faith is also important to me, and I am glad that Cahaba will give me the opportunity to learn how to integrate faith and medicine, especially for patients who desire spiritual care.
Undergrad
Valparaiso University
Med school
Ohio State University College of Medicine
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
I love to run. Most recently, I have been training for marathons. I also love any outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and swimming, and I enjoy social swing dancing. I am close with my family who live in the midwest. I have two sisters; we are triplets! I love spending time with my sisters when we are able to visit each other, and I like talking on the phone with my friends and family. I also enjoy going to bible study and church.
What is your favorite food to cook?
Mediterranean Grain Bowls with sweet potatoes
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
I want to backpack El Camino Frances in Spain.
What drives you?
I want to have a positive impact on patients that I see and people that I work with. I hope that by working in medicine, I might help patients feel like their voices and perspectives are heard, and help them live well and enjoy their bodies. I hope by listening well, I can understand patient perspectives and goals, and help them work towards their goals.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
I want to do Full Spectrum Family Medicine, with a special interest in FM+OB and Women’s Health. I want to work with underserved populations both in the United States and in global health settings.
Where are you from?
Birmingham, AL
Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?
I came to Cahaba because of the sense of community. I love being able to serve the city I grew up in that has provided me with so much throughout my life. Being able to give back to the city that built me is such an honor. I was so inspired by the attendings, residents, and staff at Cahaba, do for the community outside of medicine and vice versa. I did a rotation with Cahaba during my 4th year of medical school, and it was such an amazing experience seeing the relationship that the providers had with their patients. They truly cared about their patients’ overall well-being mentally, spiritually and physically. People went above and beyond for their patients, and that is what I aspire to do in my career.
It was also so cool to see the relationships between the attendings and residents. The attendings supported the residents not only by being their teachers, but also by being their friends, which is what makes Cahaba unique.
When applying for residency programs, I realized how important it was to me to leave residency a better human than when I started. I saw this sentiment practiced by the people at Cahaba. They are kind, open, honest, and caring. Cahaba is also a faith-based program, so it means so much to me to be surrounded by Christ-minded individuals and live a life honoring Jesus. It is so special to be able to integrate my faith with the community at Cahaba.
Undergrad:
The University of Alabama (Roll Tide)
Med school:
Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
I love spending time with my husband Sam. We are both from Birmingham (high school sweethearts). We love spending time with our family and friends, who we are lucky to have close by. In the fall, we love going down to Tuscaloosa to watch Alabama football games. Birmingham has turned into a great food city, so I enjoy trying out new restaurants around town.
What is your favorite food to cook?
Penne Alla Vodka to cook, but I really love to bake. I have the biggest sweet tooth, so I’m always down for dessert!
What is a destination you would like to visit or live?
My mom’s family lives in Lulea, Sweden, so I love visiting them and getting to experience the culture my mom grew up with. I would also love to visit Switzerland one day.
What drives you?
My love for the Lord and my family. My family is my biggest support system, and I truly wouldn’t have gotten to this point without them. Every bump in the road, they were always there to cheer me on and encourage me to keep going. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am and who I am today.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
As of now, I see myself practicing full-spectrum family medicine in an outpatient setting. I love the longitudinal relationships that an outpatient setting brings, and I find those types of relationships very fulfilling.
Where are you from?
Mooresville, NC (a suburb north of Charlotte).
Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR? Feel free to include whatever details are relevant to this, and please make this a thoughtful paragraph or however long you need. This is the most substantial and important section of the entire bio.
I found out about Cahaba through a Google search while looking for family medicine residencies. I felt I aligned with their mission statement and priorities, as care of medically underserved communities and international medical work are the things that drew me into medicine in the first place. I was impressed with the emphasis on developing relationships with the local community in West End inside and outside of clinic. Practically, I also appreciated the opportunities for full-spectrum family medicine training including obstetrics, in-office procedures, ultrasound, etc.
I couples matched and both my husband and I felt strongly that our respective programs here in Birmingham had the best overall fit for our long term goals. We certainly were nervous about the idea of moving cross-country from Omaha, Nebraska to Birmingham, but are so grateful that God gave us the push to take a leap of faith! I am excited to be joining the Cahaba family.
Undergrad:
Liberty University
Med school:
Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
I enjoy spending time with my husband, Nick, and our cat, Cleo. I enjoy reading, creative writing, and spending time outside hiking and hammocking. I also recently have be re-learning crochet and have really been enjoying it!
What is your favorite food to cook?
Cooking isn’t my strongest suit, but I love sharing meals with family and friends!
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
I love traveling! In the US, I would love to visit all of the national parks. Internationally, Japan, Scotland, and Morocco are all high on my bucket list.
What drives you?
Hope, human connection, and usually coffee
What is your (current) post residency plan?
I definitely see myself providing care to a medically underserved community in the future, although location and what all facets of practice I will incorporate are TBD! I also really value international medical work and would like to be able to continue to do it on a regular basis.
Where are you from?
I was born in metro Atlanta, raised in Suwanee, GA, but like to say I spent my formative years in Macon, GA for undergrad and medical school!
Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR? Feel free to include whatever details are relevant to this, and please make this a thoughtful paragraph or however long you need. This is the most substantial and important section of the entire bio.
When figuring out my ‘why’ in medicine and what I wanted in a future residency program, I found myself relying on three pillars: 1) “Infinite” scope of practice, 2) Advocacy, and 3) Support.
One of the meanings of my name “Aditi” is “infinity”! As a future primary care provider, I believe it is important to be equipped with a wide variety or “infinite” skillsets to treat everyone of all ages, backgrounds, and ailments. Creating a training environment that best emulates the same mission for my future career in medicine, Cahaba UAB FMR truly goes above and beyond to push the boundaries on providing ample training in a variety of fields, including Obstetrics, Pediatrics, Emergency, in multiple training environments. Given the flexibility family medicine has in allowing anyone to tailor their practice in any way, I loved having the option to pursue any advanced track (OB, Ultrasound, etc) and getting to individualize my curriculum to enhance my scope of practice!
Physicians carry the unsaid responsibility of not only treating patients, but also championing for social change for the wellbeing of the community. Instead of shying away from social injustices that impact access to healthcare, I saw Cahaba UAB FMR embracing the advocacy-forward mission of Birmingham by encouraging community involvement and global health equity through their Missions Month and integration with the West End Community. With Birmingham already being a hub for social justice advocacy, there is no better place to learn what it means to be a physician advocate!
Knowing I would most likely match far away from family, I wanted to make sure I found a home away from home that supported me academically and mentally. No doubt residency will be tough, but just by going to the interview meet-and-greet, I saw first-hand on how Cahaba UAB FMR was not just a program but truly a family. From seeing residents spend time with each other and their families outside of the hospital to hearing accounts on how supportive faculty they are in mentoring residents and providing opportunities for feedback in the program, I truly envisioned myself flourishing in a positive environment with uplifting residents as a result and seeing myself grow to be a compassionate community physician.
Undergrad:
Mercer University
Med school:
Mercer University School of Medicine (double bear!!)
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
You’ll definitely find me practicing Indian Classical dance in a studio, visiting museums, shopping ‘til I drop the local farmer’s markets, sipping on unique coffee at local coffee shops, rock climbing, and playing with my cat Samosa ☺
What is your favorite food to cook?
Anything with noodles!! Pad thai, spaghetti, stir-fried noodles, ramen…anywhere there are noodles, you will find me.
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
Definitely India and South Africa! Growing up, I am fortunately to have maintained a strong connection with my Indian heritage and witnessed unique ties between culture and social determinants of health. Gujarati is the primary language I communicate to my family and community, and it would be amazing to reconnect with the people through the same language through a health-oriented context. As for South Africa, I also had the opportunity to complete a business administration-related global mission trip back in 2017, but since then have been dreaming to go back and learn more about their healthcare (plus climb Table Mountain and enjoy the beautiful landscape!)
What drives you?
I truly would not be the person I am today if it wasn’t for the sacrifices my family gave up to help me chase my dreams (shout out to Dad, Mom, Ami ☺)
What is your (current) post residency plan?
Open to seeing where the next three years take me! At the moment, my goal is to cater my future practice to provide full-range women’s care in medically underserved areas by hopefully pursuing a fellowship in Obstetrics & Women’s Health Fellowship, continuing my involvement in advocacy through organized medicine and local/global community projects, and getting involved in medical education!
Where are you from?
I was born in South Korea and grew up in Texas and Alabama!
Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?
I first encountered Cahaba when looking up Family Medicine residency programs to apply to. After reading the mission statement, I knew there was something different about this program.
The ideas and words truly resonated with me. During my interview, it was apparent this program reflected my personal goals as an aspiring physician: working with underserved populations and having the ability to immerse myself, both emotionally and spiritually, in the community I serve. Everything was solidified during my second look, when I could tell that I’d already fallen in love with the community and the people. Everyone was so welcoming, supportive, and sincere. I knew that I wanted to come to Cahaba because I would never be short on opportunities to not only advance in medical knowledge, but also, become a part of the community.
Undergrad: Juniata College
Med school: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine - Auburn
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
I love spending time with my family, including my two adorable dogs. We like to play pickleball and golf on the weekends and I am always excited to explore new places to eat. I also enjoy spending time with friends and just hanging out. Some of my personal hobbies include building miniatures, reading, photography, and cooking.
What is your favorite food to cook?
My all-time favorite would have to be Korean, but I love experimenting with various types of spaghetti recipes! Also, Pan de Yuca!
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
Everywhere! But I would like start with Finland.
What drives you?
Knowing that I am blessed with an ability to help people who are medically, emotionally, and spiritually in need.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
I am keeping my mind open, but right now am leaning toward outpatient primary care!
Where are you from?
I am proud to be born and raised in Quito, Ecuador.
Why did you come to Cahaba+UAB FMR?
When I was entering my teens my parents became missionaries, and they moved our family to the other side of the world. It was there where God sowed in me a desire to care for those who had no means of obtaining medical care and showed me the access that medicine can give for the sharing of the gospel. I graduated medical school in 2019 and went on to practice in the Ecuadorian Amazon region. During my first year of practice, I had the privilege of serving various underserved, remote, and impoverished communities, which cemented my desire to pursue primary care. My eyes were opened to the way that God can use a willing physician to impact entire communities and that it was my purpose to pursue this type of work.
I moved to the US in 2021 with my wife, Esther, and our daughter, Adelina. Finding a residency position as an IMG (international medical graduate) and a first-generation physician was daunting, but God's providence is always present. I had no idea there were residency programs like Cahaba in the U.S. until I found Cahaba through a serendipitous Google search. After looking through their website, reading the resident bios and watching their videos I was hooked! This program seemed to be exactly what I was looking for. I'd knocked on many doors that hadn't opened, and I hesitated to do so again but I eventually took courage/came to my senses and filled out a student rotation application. It was amazing to see how God orchestrated things from there!
By mere coincidence (more likely divine intervention), I ended up meeting Dr. Jeremy Crider, Director of Urban Program, as he was passing by Atlanta to visit some of his friends at Ethne Health. They had graciously invited me to rotate with them in spite of never having had an international physician do so (another divine intervention). As I shook his hand in disbelief and excitement, Dr. Crider took note of my name. I was later invited to rotate with the Urban Program and being there showed me that the hype was real! It felt like it was the place for me. My family and I were welcomed with open arms by the residency's amazing community. I was inspired by the work the program does, the training the residents receive, how kind and down-to-earth the attendings were, and the approach the program has to serve the medically needy. The way people in the neighborhood welcomed me just because I was with Cahaba spoke volumes to me about the relationship between the program and the community. I could go on, but I'm just grateful to be able to be part of this family, and I'm honored that God has placed me here to partner with their mission.
Med school:
Universidad Internacional del Ecuador
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
I enjoy spending time with my beautiful wife and daughter. We love just being together whether it be at home or doing something adventurous! We enjoy being hospitable and opening our home to others. We believe the gospel is relational and have loved to see Him work through community. I enjoy playing soccer, strumming the guitar, taking care of my plants and maintaining my planted aquariums.
What is your favorite food to cook?
Ecuadorian Ceviche
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
I'd love to go back to Central Asia. Southeast Asia is also a region in our bucket list. Getting to explore more of South America has always been a dream.
What drives you?
I am driven by a strong sense of purpose. I know that God made me the way I am because he wanted me to be where I am. Compassion and justice are what keep me going, and understanding that serving others through medicine is a privilege, helps keep me grounded.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
My plans are wide-open. I have a calling to serve those that need it the most and to share Jesus' love through medicine. We'll see where that ends up taking my family and I.
Where are you from?
I was born in Southern California, raised in Northern Indiana, but the short answer now is Auburn, Alabama!
Why did you come to Cahaba UAB+FMR?
At first, finding Cahaba was the result of a very fortunate google search result I knew from the moment I read the mission statement that this was the place for me! Cahaba provides in a residency program what I thought would only ever be a personal dream of mine, to combine medicine and ministry. I became a doctor because I am so confident in and passionate about my faith in a God who saved me that I wanted a tangible way to provide that same hope and healing to other people. Being part of Cahaba+UAB FMR allows me to join together the two things in my life that I am the most passionate about, and I am thrilled for the opportunity to be here!
Undergrad:
Grace College and Theological Seminary
Med school:
Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine – Auburn Campus
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
I spent a lot of time volunteering with my church – children’s church, middle school small groups, adult community groups – most of my favorite memories and people are connected with a local church I’ve been part of! I also have two dogs I love to spend time with, I love a game or movie night, and I can often be found planning a trip!
What is your favorite food to cook?
I’m not much of a cook, but I do love to bake. I particularly enjoy decorating sugar cookies, but I haven’t found anything I don’t like making yet (even though eating it is the best part).
What is a destination you’d like to visit or live?
I think next up is seeing where my grandmother was from in England!
What drives you?
My heart for God, the lost, local believers and the church, and global missions.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
I’m not sure where exactly I’ll be, but I know I’ll stay somewhere in Alabama!
Where are you from?
I was born on the Westbank of New Orleans, LA but I grew up in Baton Rouge and call "The 225" home!
Why did you come to Cahaba+UAB FMR?
From my initial encounter with Cahaba via Google, it was clear to me that this residency program is intentional about being active in the community they serve. A few key words that stuck out to me in the mission statement were "justice", "physical, mental, and spiritual well being", and "conscientiousness and compassion". These words and phrases align with my personal goals and aspirations in medicine.
During an away rotation, I was impressed by the leadership of the 3rd year residents and the teaching style of the attendings. I knew that I wanted to be a family physician comfortable working in various settings including the ER, labor & delivery, and inpatient hospital wards so the Longitudinal Integrated Curriculum (LIC) that Cahaba offers is perfect for me.
I have several fun memories from my time on rotation with Cahaba. Attending a Halloween party, hiking Oak Mountain, and getting ice cream with my host resident are a few experiences that stand out. My host resident even made me lunch for a few days while I was rotating! I felt really spoiled by the hospitality and generosity of the residents and attendings here. I was shocked that residents were making time to get to know the medical students amidst their demanding curriculum. The people here know how to work hard and have a good time - which is pretty much the motto in Louisiana. These great experiences coupled with ample academic opportunities and a mission focused curriculum sold me on Cahaba!
Undergrad:
I attended Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans, LA (XULA). Xavier is an HBCU (Historically Black College or University). XULA is first among the nation’s colleges and universities in the number of African American graduates who go on to complete medical school, according to data compiled by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC).
Med school:
Louisiana State University School of Medicine- Shreveport #GEAUXTigers
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
You can catch me outside playing tennis, at home beating my friends at my favorite board game (Catan), in the city at a R&B concert or music festival, in the woods camping or rafting, in the movie theater, at mass or at Trader Joes.
What is your favorite food to cook?
I love baking bread! I usually make a simple no-knead loaf using a recipe from the New York Times. In my opinion, it is best served hot with garlic butter.
However, my favorite food to eat is boiled crawfish. Also best served hot, and pretty good with garlic butter.
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
My dream vacation involves scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, visiting Steve Irwin's "Crocoseum" at Australia Zoo, and exploring the island of New Zealand. Can you tell I watched a lot of Animal Planet growing up? Honorable mentions include but are not limited to: an elephant sanctuary in Thailand, a safari in Kenya, walking El Camino in Spain, touring the Holy Land, or a wine tasting tour in Tuscany.
What drives you?
I draw a lot of inspiration from my Catholic faith, especially its teachings surrounding social justice. I am driven by the hope that my small actions, in cooperation with God's will, can help bring about more positive change and equity in the world.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
Honestly I don't know where the next three years will take me! I am open to global mission work and academic medicine, but right now I feel called to pursue a fellowship in addiction medicine, street medicine or both. Ideally my future practice will incorporate some form of a mobile health unit or home visits. I believe very strongly that preventative healthcare, behavioral healthcare, counseling, and healthy food need to be made more accessible to poor and vulnerable populations.
Where are you from?
Gallatin, TN
Why did you come to Cahaba+UAB FMR?
I guess you could say I’ve taken the scenic route to get to Cahaba. Throughout college, I was torn between pursuing full-time ministry versus medicine, but eventually came to realize that the two could coexist. I deferred my enrollment to medical school for a year to attend a ministry school in Alabama (and travel in Europe). Following that year, I entered medical school thinking I wanted to do family medicine. However, I slowly talked myself into pursuing surgery. To make a long story short, I went on to complete one year of otolaryngology residency in Texas, but ultimately felt God calling me back to family medicine.
After parting ways with my surgery program, I obtained my medical license and spent the year driving around rural Texas doing house calls for elderly patients. After reapplying and interviewing for family medicine, I felt Cahaba was the right program for me. I knew I wanted to train at an unopposed program, but the thing that really drew me in was the shared mission and values of the Cahaba family. My road to Cahaba was marked by some tough decisions and a leap of faith, but I couldn’t be more excited to be here now.
Undergrad:
University of Tennessee Knoxville
Med school:
University of Tennessee Health Science Center
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
I like doing most things that involve being with people and/or being outdoors: potluck dinners, hanging out in the park, playing spikeball, backpacking, climbing, and watching football (Go Vols!). I am also an avid fly fisherman and try to go whenever I can.
What is a destination you’d like to visit or live?
I love traveling so my answer is constantly changing. Currently, I’d like to go to Alaska.
What drives you?
Hope.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
Given how the past few years of my life have played out, I’m reluctant to make too many “plans” for the future. One of the things I love about family medicine is the variety of things in which you can dip your hand. Some of the things that excite me most are sports medicine, addiction medicine, procedures, integrative medicine, medical education, and working with underserved populations.
Where are you from?
I am from Headland, Alabama. My hometown is a small rural community in Southeast Alabama that’s just outside of the peanut capital of the world (Dothan, AL)! My husband (Aaron) and I met in Birmingham, AL and lived in Woodstock, AL once we got married and during my clinical rotations. We currently live in Fairfield, AL.
Why did you come to Cahaba+UAB FMR?
I came to Cahaba for many reasons but mainly because of the people! I rotated with the Urban Program at Cahaba during a time in my life where my husband and I were struggling to find community due to our hectic schedules and living in an isolated area. From the first week of my rotation, we were invited to meals and events and were welcomed into the lives of many of the residents, faculty, and families. We truly felt like our time rotating with Cahaba had transformed the way we saw and experienced community. By the end of my rotation, we had made many friends and were able to continue building on many of the relationships that we had formed during my month in West End. Overall, it was because of the welcoming and loving people that make up Cahaba that made me want to pursue my residency there!
In addition to the amazing community, I also loved that Cahaba focuses on providing care to the uninsured and underinsured patients in their community through their FQHC. As someone interested in rural medicine and medical missions it was very important to me that I train at a program where care for the underserved is a priority and not just an afterthought. The opportunity for medical mission experiences at Cahaba excited me and is something I plan to pursue both in training and in practice in whatever way the Lord leads. Practically, I enjoyed the longitudinal aspect of Cahaba’s training and saw it as something that would make me a stronger physician. I also felt like the outpatient and inpatient medicine experience was very robust and would prepare me well for anything that I might encounter after training.
Undergrad:
Birmingham-Southern College
Med school:
UAB Heersink School of Medicine
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
Mostly spending time with my wonderful husband and our cat (Sagwa)! We love to go on hikes and walks, anything to get us outside together and moving in the fresh air. I personally love to run on both roads and trails, but I greatly prefer trails… no matter how many spider webs I run through, ticks I pluck from my legs, or flies I inhale. We greatly love worshiping and living in community with our church in Fairfield (Urban Hope Community Church) and try to spend time with our church family when able.
As far as personal hobbies go, I enjoy gardening but can’t keep a houseplant alive for a million bucks. Cooking is something that brings me a lot of joy and I especially love cooking for others, especially if there are squash involved. I also love to pickle vegetables and am always trying to find a new way to perfect my recipe for dill pickles. If I need something more chill, I will undoubtedly be caught watching Adventure Time because it is my all-time favorite show and gives me all the warm fuzzies. When I have time, I enjoy reading and my favorite series currently is the Zamonia series by Walter Moers (I highly recommend if you like whimsical and goofy adventure novels).
What is your favorite food to cook?
Definitely Mexican cauliflower rice bowls… or chicken shawarma bowls… or Mediterranean orzo veggie bowls… pretty much anything in a bowl form!
What is a destination you’d like to visit or live?
I would love to visit Greece but would want to live in Italy! Give me all the pasta and gelato, please and thank you.
What drives you?
Growing in my love, joy, and desire of the Lord by serving and loving others the way Jesus did! I (imperfectly) strive to live in a way where Christ is increased and I am decreased, knowing that He is most glorified by me when I am most satisfied in Him.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
Currently I plan to return to my hometown and care for the underserved members of my home community alongside my father! I am very blessed to have a parent who is also a Family Medicine Physician with a heart for serving the underserved. The clinic in Headland (Headland Family Medicine) is the only clinic in our small town and is both family-owned and run by my parents. I am so proud of all the work they have done to love my home community well and hope to go join the family business (literally)!
That being said, my husband and I also have a love for missions and know that God will use this love in our lives in some way in our future. Currently we are considering leading recurring short-term trips but are also keeping our hearts open to long-term missions if God leads us in that direction.
Where are you from?
Peachtree City, Georgia
Why did you come to Cahaba+UAB FMR?
The people. From my first interactions with Cahaba residents during clinicals with the Urban Program, I could tell something was different about them. They were intentional in their conversations, they worked extremely hard, they made others feel valued and loved, and they had a contagious joy and light about them. Each day on my rotation, I felt so excited to walk through the doors of Cahaba. This was the first place that I felt like I was making a difference in the lives of our patients daily. This was exactly what I felt called to do, and I knew that these were the people that I wanted to do it alongside. Cahaba truly is a family, working and growing together with similar values, beliefs, and missions.
Why Cahaba?
Because I know that these people will become my family, that Cahaba will become my home, and together, we will make a difference in the community of West End and beyond.
Undergrad:
University of Florida
Med school:
VCOM- Auburn
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
Spending precious time with family- traveling to see my brothers and my new nephew, Brody. Going to my parents’ house to enjoy time out on the lake. Spending time with friends- exploring local places to eat and all the amazing parks and trails around Birmingham. I love any adventure outside, especially hiking, running, wakesurfing, and snowboarding. Wherever I go, my dog, Hope, is always along for the ride!
What is your favorite food to cook?
Anything Italian! Lasagna is probably my favorite.
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
I have snowboarded out west in the Rocky’s several times with my family. I enjoy the serenity of the mountains and the adventures around every corner.
What drives you?
My love for Christ and my love for others.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
As of right now, I would say I would love to do a combination of outpatient family medicine and hospitalist.
Where are you from?
Madison, Alabama
Why did you come to Cahaba+UAB FMR?
I initially heard about Cahaba through my medical school's Family Medicine Interest Group, and I was really drawn to Cahaba's mission to provide vital healthcare needs to underserved populations in Alabama through a lens of Christ-like love of neighbor. I rotated with the Urban program at the West End clinic at the start of my M4 year and loved the experience. Not only did residents receive excellent medical training, but additional rotation experiences like serving in the West End community garden also conveyed a strong value of community relationship-building and service. At Cahaba, I saw faculty whose personal and professional attributes I aspire towards: attendings were not only invested teachers who challenged residents daily to the highest standard, but also loving members to their families and serving neighbors to their coworkers and community. Additionally, the supportive culture among residents and attendings and their families was unlike any I had seen. The unique longitudinal integrated curriculum with opportunities like MAT clinic and faculty development also complements my longer-term career goals. Truly it's a blessing to have the opportunity to work here.
Undergrad:
Auburn University
Med school:
University of Alabama Heersink School of Medicine
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
Spending time with my husband, Matthew, and with our newborn baby! We love gardening, watching movies, and cooking new dishes, but we're still excited to trade some of that for changing diapers too! We've also loved being involved in Bible studies and book clubs with our local community in Birmingham.
What is your favorite food to cook?
A comforting soup or stew, any kind, any time of year!
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
I've always wanted to hike the Camino de Santiago in Spain.
What drives you?
My love for God, knowing His great love for me, and wanting to share that love with others.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
Probably continuing to treat an underserved patient population; I'm really interested right now in investing in patients with substance use disorders. It would be cool to integrate all that with the possibility to teach as a physician educator.
Where are you from?
I was born and raised just north of Atlanta, Georgia, and went to undergrad at Oglethorpe University. After college, I followed a little dream of mine to be an fisherman in Alaska, and after one salmon season, I decided that being a teacher would be more fun. To escape the Alaskan cold, I moved to Bolivia, South America to be a gym and math teacher at an international school. In Bolivia, I met my wife, Marisa. Somehow, I convinced her to marry me, and we moved back home to the states to attend medical school and residency.
Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?
My whole life I have wanted to be a doctor, but after my time living in Bolivia I saw the impact medicine and primary care can have on a person, family, and community. I knew that I wanted to integrate my profession, care for underserved populations, and my faith, so when I heard of Cahaba through friends living in Birmingham, it felt like it was meant to be. When I completed a month-long audition rotation, I saw in the attendings the type of doctor that I want to be - caring, kind, smart, thoughtful, Kingdom-minded, involved in the community, and living in the neighborhood that they serve. The opportunities that Cahaba provides for me to learn medicine, be involved and learn more about community medicine and medical missions, and for our family to become the neighbors that we have always aspired to be is unmatched.
Undergrad:
Oglethorpe University
Med school:
Lincoln Memorial University Debusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
Spending time with my wife, Marisa. Lots of walks and hikes with my wife and dog, Bear. Slow Saturdays with fun foods and drinks. Visiting and spending time with our nephews and family. Traveling (preferably internationally) to anywhere with a beautiful city or nature to explore. Playing pick-up sports of all varieties. Watching good movies and fun TV shows, and constantly trying to actually sit down and read a book.
What is your favorite food to cook?
Cook? I'm more of a peanut-butter-and-jelly-making kind of guy. Baby carrots on the side. My favorite food to EAT though is a good acai bowl, preferably from Bolivia.
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
I would love to visit the pacific islands, or somewhere in southeast Asia. As far as somewhere I would like to live... too many places to decide!
What drives you?
Love for God and love for others. Everything I do, I hope to share that love -- whether it's medicine, being a kind neighbor, being a loving husband, or loving my family and community.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
Oh gosh. It's definitely up in the air for sure. Right now, I would love to continue working for an FQHC in a city/urban center. Returning to working internationally is always on the table as well, but we see ourselves staying somewhere in the States for a bit of time post residency.
Where are you from?
Mt. Juliet, Tennessee – home of the Golden Bears
Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?
I had the opportunity to spend a month at Cahaba after my M1 year, and it was a breath of fresh air after a year full of stress. This put family medicine on my radar for the first time and the further along in medical school I got, the more convinced I became that the skillset of a family medicine doctor was right for me. During interview season, I sought out full-spectrum family medicine residencies that would train me to function in a variety of low-resourced settings. From a medical perspective, Cahaba checked all the boxes: loads of ultrasound, office procedures, complex patients, a strong inpatient service, and the option for endoscopy training are all tools I was looking for to prepare me for a future of working with the underserved. Most importantly, Cahaba stood out for the same reasons it did way back in the summer after my M1 year: I wanted to become like the people I met here. Their genuine care for the community around them was obvious and overflowed into all aspects of life, not just medicine. Service wasn’t an extracurricular resume padder – it was just the natural outflow of loving your neighbors well. These are people I’m excited to be discipled by as I figure out what my life will look like over the next few years.
Undergrad:
University of Tennessee at Knoxville
Med school:
University of Tennessee Health Science Center
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
Hiking, soccer, disc-golf, stupidly complex board games, doing stuff with my church, and watching a bit too much football are some highlights. Really, any excuse to be around my friends and family, ideally outside.
Favorite food to make:
Spicy fajitas.
What is a destination you’d like to visit or live?
I’m more of a “journey” than “destination” type of person. I live for Type 2 fun. I would love to be slightly unprepared for a trek up a very big mountain. Doesn’t have to be Everest big, but something like Mt. Rainier would be a fun time.
What drives you?
I believe in a God that loves each and every person in this world more than we could possibly understand and am driven to love others with just a fraction of that love.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
Not sure – I feel called to provide quality healthcare to people who wouldn’t otherwise receive it, and I could see myself doing this internationally or locally through an FQHC.
Where are you from?
San Jose, California
Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?
During my clinical rotations as a medical student, I wanted to find a residency that really catered to patient care and one that would also allow me to continue practicing OMT. I came across Cahaba while researching family medicine programs and was blown away by the level of care that they provide their population. Even before arriving to Birmingham, I felt so welcomed by everyone who reached out to me and asked me if I needed any help in finding a place to stay or help with moving. And since being here, I've felt a lot of support from my attendings and co-residents.
Undergrad:
Dominican University of California
Med school:
Nova Southeastern University
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
You can usually find me playing my instrument, the veena (Indian classical string instrument), searching for my next vacation destination, reading a book or spending time with my family and friends.
What is your favorite food to cook?
I don't cook as much, but I'm hoping to change that in residency. I actually love baking and have been known to bake molten lava cake, cupcakes, and scones. I recently got into decorating cakes.
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
I would love to tour Europe. I've been to England, Ireland, and Wales but never actually ventured into Europe.
What drives you?
Helping others who are in need.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
I'm not sure at the moment, but I am thinking about full spectrum family medicine!
Where are you from?
I was raised primarily in East Tennessee just east of Knoxville in a small town named Morristown.
Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?
During my time in Memphis, I participated in a small group with some mentor physicians who had close ties to the old Resurrection Health residency program. These physicians had a great impact on my understanding of medicine and how it can be used for the Kingdom and glory of our heavenly Father. It was through these relationships that I was introduced to the concept of "faith based" residency programs and ultimately Cahaba UAB FMR. They encouraged me to participate in an away rotation which I was fortunate enough to be able to do. The time I spent with the residents and faculty opened my eyes even further to how medicine and the Christian faith can intersect. After much consideration and prayer, my wife and I felt that Cahaba UAB FMR would provide a high quality medical education while also allowing for significant spiritual growth of both myself and my family. My family and I are excited to be in Birmingham and are excited to see what God has in store for ourselves, my fellow residents, and the program over the next three years.
Undergrad:
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Med school:
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
I have a wife of 5 years and two boys (2 year old and 10 month old). Most of my life outside of medicine includes time spent with them. My wife and I enjoy activities outside and activities with our two boys.
What is your favorite food to cook?
I love outdoor grilling. Any type of meat including chicken, steak, ribs, etc. After living in Memphis, I have recently explored slow smoked meats on the grill.
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
Anywhere with a beach.
What drives you?
As a follower of Christ, I would like to say most days my drive comes from a kingdom focus and trying to discern and follow the will of our heavenly Father.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
My current post residency plan is currently unclear, but I am very interested in Women's Health and Obstetrics. I feel the Lord has given me a desire to serve this population through the avenue of Family Medicine.
Where are you from?
Montgomery, AL
Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?
Until I rotated at Cahaba as a 4th year medical student, I didn't feel very passionate about medicine. In fact, I considered not even going to residency or practicing medicine after graduation. Cahaba was the first place that I felt excited about my future in medicine. The way that I saw physicians approach their relationship with their patients and with their community was unlike anything that I had seen so far in my training. I saw physicians and staff that truly cared about the whole patient and wanted to share in their burdens. Beyond that, the training environment at Cahaba is great, and the faculty are approachable and treat residents and staff like peers. The biggest draw to Cahaba, for me, was the collaborative effort to treat patients and each other with the love of Jesus.
Undergrad:
Auburn University
Med school:
UAB Heersink School of Medicine
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
I like to think that the majority of my life is outside of medicine, even if that isn't necessarily reflected in my schedule. Medicine is ultimately a small part of my identity. Mostly, I am spending time with my wife, Kennon, - a pediatrics resident - and our 1-year-old daughter, Theodora. We love exploring the Birmingham food and drink scene and hanging out with friends. I love sports and am very passionate about fitness, so in my spare time I can usually be found at the gym or doing something active.
What is your favorite food to cook?
I try to cook mostly vegetarian/vegan, and I love cooking anything with lentils.
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
I was born in Australia and moved to the US at a very young age. I've never been back, so I would love to visit one day.
What drives you?
I'm driven by the desire to show others -- be it my family, friends, patients, or otherwise -- the love of Christ.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
I have come a long way from the time when I planned to not even pursue residency. Currently, I think that I want to practice full-scope medicine in an urban, underserved setting. I also have my CSCS and love working with athletes, so I hope to find a way to incorporate that into my future as well.
Where are you from?
Troy, Alabama
Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?
I ultimately came to Cahaba because of the people and the curriculum. At the interview, everyone made me feel really relaxed and welcomed. I also really liked how Cahaba has a longitudinal integrated curriculum. I felt like this curriculum would benefit my learning throughout residency.
Undergrad:
UAB
Med school:
Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
Spending time with my family, friends and doing anything outdoors.
What is your favorite food to cook?
My mom’s recipes, and also anything I can fix in a crock pot.
What is a destination you’d like to visit or live?
I’d love to go and visit all the National Parks one day.
What drives you?
Knowing that God has a plan for me and my family.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
To be determined.
Where are you from?
Palm Bay, FL
Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?
I found my way to Cahaba through a fortunate Google search. I had a plan to do family medicine, but I didn’t really think much past that. Then I came across Cahaba online and I fell in love with their mission statement and their passion to bring healthcare to people who might not have any access otherwise. After my interview, I immediately knew this was the place for me. The people here are so loving and supportive. They encourage us to try our hand at everything because they want us to learn to do things the right way, and the best way to learn is to do.
Undergrad:
University of Central Florida
Med school:
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
I’m usually either sleeping, talking to my friends back home, or showing everyone pictures of my cockatiel, Bobert. If you ever see me, I will have a slew of pictures that I am always willing to show off.
What is your favorite food to cook?
Chicken and Dumplings.
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
Somewhere in the mountains.
What drives you?
I’m driven by my desire to connect with people. It’s the main reason I chose family medicine. When I talk to people, I really want to get to know them, so having a job that lets me do that is kind of a dream come true.
What is your (current) post residency plan?
Practice outpatient primary care in a small suburb.