Why did you decide to work in oncology?
I decided to pursue oncology as it was one of the specialties in medicine where scientific discovery and patient care intersect so profoundly. Advances in genomics, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy are transforming how we approach cancer care, and I find it incredibly fulfilling to contribute to this transformation. Oncology offers the chance to bring cutting edge research to the bedside, creating more personalized treatments that can make a real difference in patients' lives. The complexity and the challenge of cancer as a disease and the potential for innovation, combined with the relationships forged with my patients, inspires and motivates me to contribute to this evolving field.
Tell us about the condition(s) you specialize in. Why is this an area of interest to you? What led you to focus here?
I focus on taking care of patients with multiple myeloma and other plasma cell disorders. I chose to specialize in multiple myeloma because of the deep and lasting relationships I am able to build with my patients. During my fellowship, I found it very inspiring to hear about each patient's unique journey with myeloma and be able to support them while witnessing their resilience. Multiple myeloma presents ongoing challenges, but the fortitude patients show in the face of these challenges is both humbling and motivating.
What are the main challenges in this area? How do you address these challenges with patients and families?
One of the main challenges in treating myeloma is the significant heterogeneity of the disease in its presentation and progression among different patients. I work closely with patients and their families to try to address several factors, including disease features and the patient's medical history, lifestyle, and personal values, to create a tailored approach to treatment. As the treatment landscape for myeloma continues to evolve, I strive to incorporate novel advances in order to improve outcomes for patients, while balancing quality of life and patient values.
Describe your research work in multiple myeloma.
I am involved in both clinical and translational research in myeloma and plasma cell disorders. My clinical research involves clinical trials that investigate the application of novel therapies in newly diagnosed and relapsed myeloma. I am also interested in studying the potential applications of minimal residual disease testing, as well as the genomic and immune microenvironment determinants that impact response to therapy.
What are you most excited about in your work in the area of multiple myeloma? What holds promise for patients?
We are living in an exciting time for multiple myeloma treatment as the landscape has evolved rapidly over the last decade with more than a dozen FDA approvals. Additionally, recent clinical trials evaluating multi-agent combinations therapies, especially in the newly diagnosed myeloma setting, have demonstrated impressive results leading to deeper responses in a larger proportion of patients. Combined with the progress made in understanding disease biology, genomics, and immunology in myeloma, we are well positioned for continued advancement and development of more effective treatments that improve patient outcomes.
What do you like to do when you're not doing research/caring for patients? What do you do for fun?
Having moved to Boston a little over a year ago, my husband and I, along with our new Samoyed puppy (Mozzarella), have enjoyed exploring different parks and bike trails in the area.