I am a pediatric oncologist who specializes in allogeneic (from a donor) and autologous (from self) bone marrow and stem cell transplantation. I treat children and young adults with hematologic cancers, such as leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes, as well as those with diseases that impair the ability of the body to make blood cells, such as bone marrow failure syndromes and immunological deficiencies. I am also a specialist in graft-versus-host disease in children — a complication of transplantation that occurs when white blood cells from the donor attack the tissues of the recipient, causing severe inflammation and other problems.
In my research, my fellow investigators and I are assessing the use of T cells that target Epstein-Barr virus infections. This virus can cause potentially life-threatening disorders in people with weakened immune systems when it infects cells and causes them to divide uncontrollably in the liver, lung, brain, or other vital organ. We are learning how to optimize treatment with these specialized T cells for patients with a variety of underlying diseases. The way the immune system constantly reinvents itself is fascinating. I enjoy working at an institution that enables me to combine my knowledge of immunology, oncology, and transplantation to enhance a patient's chance of a cure.
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In addition to patient care and research, I mentor fellows and help them define their choice of laboratory study. We have a great faculty here who offer a wide breadth of research opportunities, help our trainees on their way to becoming tomorrow's leaders, and guide them as they launch their academic medical careers.
I do something that to some people may sound like science fiction, but it works because of amazing biology – some of which we understand, and some of which we are still discovering. It also works because of the children. I am frequently awed by my patients. Children incorporate their illnesses into their sense of themselves and can take in stride what some adults might find intolerable. When we cure them, we return their sense of well-being to them, and this is incredibly satisfying.
Taking care of seriously ill children requires a team of dedicated people. I am lucky to work at a place that makes it as easy as possible to give our patients and their families the care and support they need.
