Becoming a physician and researcher has fulfilled my desire to help others. Early in my residency, I was drawn to pediatric hematology-oncology and later, during my fellowship, I became interested in bone marrow transplantation. I continue to enjoy working with children because it’s very rewarding to see a sick child turn the corner and do well.
In patient care, I specialize in bone marrow transplantation for hemoglobinopathies, malignancies and metabolic disorders. I also run a multidisciplinary clinic focused on taking care of children with chronic graft versus host disease. With my research, I work to restore and maintain intestinal homeostasis in patients during the peri-transplant period.
My goal is to reduce the incidence of graft versus host disease (GVHD) by using a variety of approaches, such as administration of specific nutritional compounds and modification of the intestinal microbiome. Since GVHD can be a life-threatening complication after bone marrow transplants, I am interested in improving outcomes for patients by reducing its occurrence.