Graduate Bios
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Lacie Gregory
I grew up outside of a tiny town in northwest KS and attended Eastern Heights while growing up. Go Mustangs! I then went to Fort Hays State University where I played basketball and majored in Biology. I graduated in May of 2003 and entered Medical School at KU. I married my wonderful husband Nate in December of 2005 and we have three beautiful daughters! Kylan Eileen, who was born June 2, 2007; Kirstyn Lee who was born December 16, 2008 and Kinley Roux who was born December 21, 2010. We also have a great dog, HoneyBear. We live in Wellington, KS and my husband is part owner and manager of "The MoJack".
Why Via Christi? I chose Via Christi because I felt I would receive outstanding training that would prepare me to practice medicine in rural Kansas. I wanted hands on learning and I wanted to be managing patients.
Passions: I love sports-especially basketball, volleyball and the occasional racquetball game! I also have a passion for animals and the KS Humane Society is my favorite charity. I enjoy movies, reading, music and of course spending time with my family.
Favorite Books: The Harry Potter series, the Eragon series or whatever catches my eye on the book stand!
Favorite Quotes: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." - Phillipians 4:13
After residency plan: After graduation in 2010 I joined Sumner County Family Care in Wellington, KS.
Home town: Agra, KS
Dana Brewington
I grew up in rural Missouri and graduated from Lone Jack High School in 2000. I attended undergraduate and medical school at the University of Missouri in Kansas City before matching to the Family Medicine Program at Via Christi in 2006. My "high school sweetheart" Scott and I got married on January 27, 2007, during my first year of residency and he moved his Remodeling and Handyman business to Wichita. We live on the West side of town with my "pony" and our two dogs, Strider (my super-social chocolate lab mix) and Tuff (Scott's timid and spastic border collie).
Why Via Christi? Via Christi offered the most comprehensive Family Medicine training of anywhere else I looked. Also, the people were great and made Scott and me feel right at home!
Passions: I'm an American girl!! I was in cheerleading for 11 years; the last 4 as a UMKC Kangaroo! Go Roos! I come from a musical family and also play the piano and tenor saxophone. I enjoy jogging with my pet dog, Strider, and riding my "pony" (my 2006 Ford Mustang GT).
Favorite Books: The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings series
Home town: Lone Jack, Missouri
Jack Kline
Single male from back-woods Tennessee. Raised on the farm, in the coal mines, and with medicine.
Why Via Christi? I simply felt that Via Christi had the best combination of opportunities for training and community.
Passions: Serving Christ. Being with friends. Playing sports.
After residency plan: Full-Scope Rural and International Medicine
Home town: Helenwood, TN
Trini Garza
Soy hispano! I am originally from a small rural town in the Great State of Texas. I am married to the most beautiful woman in the world, Lindsey, originally from San Antonio, Texas. We have been married for 3 years. I received a B.S. in Biology from the University of Texas Pan American (Edinburg, TX), and attended the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School (Dallas, TX) for med-school. My wife is a registered nurse and works at St. Francis Hospital. We have a terrier-mix dog named Missy and we love Wichita!
Why Via Christi? 1. I felt I could get excellent full-spectrum family medicine training. 2. Awesome OB numbers- #1 in the country for family medicine residency programs 3. The sincerity of the faculty and awesome upper level residents. 4. My interest in international medicine
Passions: Hobbies: 1. Baseball 2. Golf - very recent hobby 3. PS2 Passions: 1. God 2. Family 3. Service of others 4. International Work Talents: 1. Play Drums 2. Preacher
Favorite Books: 1. La Biblia
Favorite Quotes: "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." - Matt 6:21 "People don't care how much you know, until they know how much you care." - John Maxwell
After residency plan: I am unsure as to whether my wife and I will be practicing in a rural town in South Texas (i.e. near my hometown) or in another country...I am leaving this in the Lord's hands. My plan is to be involved in international work, if not full-time, part time (at least 3 months out of the year). Unrelated note: I want to coach my kid's little league baseball team.
Home town: San Isidro, Texas
Troy Holdeman
Born and raised in Newton, Kansas. I am married to a beautiful woman that happens to be an OB/GYN resident. I like to shoot sporting clays and skeet in my spare time. I love to be outdoors and especially spend time at the lake.
Why Via Christi? Best program in the country coupled with perfect location for me.
Passions: Shotgun sports, Bowling, Racquetball, Water skiing
After residency plan: Join a physician group in Newton, Kansas.
Home town: Newton
Rick Moberly
I grew up in Colorado and moved to Kansas to go to College (WSU) and Medical School(KU). I enjoy traveling and experiencing other cultures.
Why Via Christi? I wanted a residency that gave me the opportunity to practice operative obstetrics, EGDs, colonoscopies, and had international opportunities.
Passions: I enjoy traveling, skiing, multimedia production, golf.
Favorite Books: LOTR, WOT, SOT, HGTTG
Favorite Quotes: "Health care is an essential safeguard of human life and dignity and there is an obligation for society to ensure that every person be able to realize this right." - Cardinal Joseph Bernardin, Chicago Archdiocese
After residency plan: I plan on going to the VCFM International Fellowship after I graduate. I hope that some part of my future practice is in a developing nation.
Home town: Grand Junction, CO
Residency stats: Colonoscopies - 90; EGD - 30; Colposcopies - 15; Vaginal Deliveries - 175; Forceps - 20; Cesarean Sections - 70... as of July 28, 2008
John Birky
I am married to a wonderful woman named Lisa and we just recently had a son (Jude) in July 2009. I grew up in rural Kansas about one hour north of Wichita near Goessel, KS, and Lisa grew up in western KS near Colby. College: Grace University (Omaha) & K-State. Med School: University of Kansas School of Medicine. My life has been shaped by many forces, including growing up in rural Kansas, but I am grateful for many others as well, including spending time overseas in a few developing countries, learning more of what it means to be a follower of Jesus while attending K-State, but I think most of all my parents and the key truth they instilled in me at a young age- that following Jesus above all else will bring a satisfaction far greater than I'll find pursuing the temporary things of this world. That has made all the difference.
Why Via Christi? The residents, the faculty, the opportunities... I could go on. You can come away from this residency ready to do clinic, be a hospitalist, do OB with C-Sections, endoscopy, International Medicine, Sports Medicine, you name it- the opportunities are there for you to pursue. Looking back as a third year resident, I see faculty who have become mentors and residents who have become close friends - more priceless than MasterCard.
Passions: Developing a heart like Jesus (it's a long road...), developing great friendships, playing and listening to great music, reading and discussing truth, watching people come alive when they discover the "openly hidden" treasure of God who became a man. My wife and I also love to travel, and living in a developing country may be in our future...
Favorite Books: So many...but currently I am reading The Jesus I Never Knew, Understand My Muslim People, and "Health The Bible and The Church" by Dan Fountain. I especially enjoy novels set in developing countries, and haven't yet found one quite as good as The Kite Runner.
After residency plan: After graduating, I plan to participate in the newly formed International Family Medicine Fellowship. After that, we will likely practice full-scope family medicine in rural Kansas. The physical and spiritual needs in the developing world tug at my heart however, and we're watching for God's leading, waiting to see what he wants to do with our lives.
Home town: Goessel, KS
Residency stats: All approximations... Vaginal deliveries: about 100. C-Sections: recently passed 50 primary. Forceps: 3-4. Vaccuum: 6-7. Colonscopy: 20-30, EGD: 5-6. LEEP: 3. Stress Treadmill: 1 OB ultrasound: 5-6.
JJ Morris
I was raised in Los Angeles, but have been a resident of Alaska since 1992. My wife Kc, was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska. I served in the Army, attended Christ for the Nations Bible School, earned a BS in Biology in from Baylor University and his MD degree from Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, NC. I graduated from Via Christi in 2010. I am now a Family Medicine doctor for Central Peninsula Hospital in Kenai, Alaska (http://www.cpgh.org/body.cfm?xyzpdqabc=0&id=10&action=detail&ref=113). Kc and I have 4 children aged 7, almost 5, 2 and a new baby born in June.
Why Via Christi? for the OB experience, the "can-do" attitude and the family friendly atmosphere
Passions: Bicycle commuting to work; enjoying my wife and kids; pet medical interests include: sleep medicine, allergies, OB, vitamins and herbs, and procedural medicine.
Favorite Books: How Should We Then Live (Schaefer), I Had Trouble in Getting to Solla Sollew (Seuss), An Amercian Doctor's Odyssey (Heiser)
Home town: Kenai, AK
Melissa Penny
I was born and raised in beautiful Sioux City, IA, and went to school at Drake University where I met my hubby, Devin. We got married, started med school and cranked out a couple of kiddos - Jade and Eden. Now I spend my time enjoying my sweet family and the wonderful Wichita life.
Why Via Christi? I was blown away during my interview by the availability of procedures and didactics, but more so by how awesome the residents were. It helped that two of the other programs I interviewed at told me I should go to Via Christi if I could. That said a lot.
Passions: I love spending time with my family and growing closer to God. I like to garden, play the guitar and am trying to get into tennis...
After residency plan: I owe four years to the Air Force and am really hoping to end up in Omaha during that time. When I can finally choose for myself where I will go, I plan to go wherever Devin says.
Home town: Sioux City, IA
John Epperly
My wife Shea an I both graduated from medical school at the University of Arizona. My wife is also an FP resident here at Via-Christi. We both love the outdoors! Skiing, Hiking, backpacking, climbing, and water sports. We just had our first child.. Beau Isaac. He's been a tremendous blessing and joy to watch grow up the first 5 months. (oh yeah and I'm a die-hard OU sooner fan, and so is my son.....as if he had a choice)
Why Via Christi? Great Full-spectrum FP training, spiritual mentorship, great community and good medical climate for training residents.
Passions: I love getting people(namely students) to get fired about full-spectrum FP. I love sports of all kinds especially football. Hanging out with friends, and I'm actually a closet magician. My wife and I are also very passionate about rural and international medicine. We hope to use both to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Favorite Books: Screwtape Letters by CS Lewis, although I prefer watching movies, since it takes less time( I can't sit still more then 1 hr)
Favorite Quotes: FREEEEEEEDOOOOOM! William Wallace in Braveheart. If you can call that a quote.
After residency plan: My wife and I both plan on doing the international fellowship. We then hope to have a rural practice with several other fellow residents. We hope to set up our practice where we each practice 2 months overseas on a yearly basis.
Home town: Wichita, Ks
Residency stats: C-sections- 65 Vaginal Deliveries 200-250 Forceps- 23 Vacuum- 12 Colonoscopy- 80 EGD- 35
Chinenyenwa Ezedike
I am Princess Chinenyenwa from a very small village in Nigeria. I have two brothers and two sisters. I was born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria. I moved to the states when I was 14 years old and five years later, met my Nigerian Prince. At the age of 15, I had it with high school and at 19, I completed my B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Florida. I went on to complete my MD in University of Florida. My husband (aka. my partner in crime) has a B.A in Electronic engineering from F.A.M.U and a M.S. in Aeronautical Science and Space Operations Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. I plan to visit more places on medical missions and in the end, move back to Nigeria when I am finished with my training. I love spending time with family and friends and, Oh, I love African dance.
Why Via Christi? It had everything I looked for in a program and more but I will share a few. 1) Via Christi has a complete well rounded Family Medicine program similar to the training in Nigeria. You've got to get a feel for everything otherwise you are no use. 2) Great Obstetrics training - I don't have to compete with Ob residents for numbers. In fact, I don't have to compete with anyone period. 3) Great Great Great family support 4) My conversations with Dr. Stringfield via email and my visit here. I met all the other faculty members and the people of Wichita. Wonderful people by the way and everyone in the faculty loves to teach. 5) I also found people like me who can practice medicine and embrace the presence of a supreme being. ... do you really want me to go on:)
Passions: African Dance, cooking, talking and praying with my husband, running, weight lifting, drawing, soccer ...
Favorite Books: My Book Of Bible Stories, All of the African Folk tales, Chinua Achebe, Ola Rotimi and some Igbo Nigerian books ...well those are my favorites but I do read other books
Favorite Quotes: "If you make God's work your concern, he will make your needs his concern." If you lose hope, somehow you lose the vitality that keeps life moving, you lose that courage to be, that quality that helps you go on in spite of it all. And so today I still have a dream. The Trumpet of Conscience.----- Martin Luther King, Jr.
After residency plan: I see myself in a rural setting, in various medical missions and ultimately in Nigeria
Home town: Surulere, Nigeria
Residency stats: Vaginal deliveries (5); C-sections (2); EGD (1) STRESS TREADMILL (10) THIS IS IN JUST FOUR WEEKS OF CARDIOLOGY - (as of August 1, 2008)
Jared Cardwell
I am a Florida-born, Georgia-grown Southerner. I am recently married to the most wonderful woman in the world. I bleed Orange and Blue. I other words I am a die-hard Florida Gator fan. But most importantly I am a Bible-believing praise shouting believer in the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ.
Why Via Christi? This was a monumental decision in my life. Coming from the Southeast, there were plenty of programs from which to choose. There was plenty of comfort staying in the Southeast as well. However, I was eventually led to interview throughout the country. I interviewed at Via Christi, and after evaluating my options, I found that Via Christi Family Medicine Residency Program was the right place for me. It has the right mix of internal medicine training, OB, Peds, and procedures.
Passions: Hobbies - video games, movies, computers Passions - First and foremost, my wonderful wife. I also enjoy the musical arts. I play the trombone and guitar.
Favorite Books: The Harry Potter Series; The Ender's Game Series
After residency plan: I plan to practice rural and international medicine with my wife and close friends doing full-scope family medicine.
Home town: Moultrie, GA
Steve Sittnick
Steve received a BA in Political Science from The Citadel, Charleston, SC and a Masters degree from US Army Command and General Staff College, Fort Leavenworth, KS. Steve retired from the Army after twenty-six years of service in Parachute and Ranger Infantry units. Steve graduated from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences in May 2008. Steve is married to Cava Sittnick. They have a son Mack who attends the United States Military Academy, West Point, NY and a daughter Sally who attends Leavenworth High School, Leavenworth, KS. Steve and Cava are active members of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Leavenworth and Steve also worships at St. James Episcopal Church in Wichita. Steve aspires to practice Family Medicine in a rural setting.
Why Via Christi? First of all the mission statement of Via Christi: to provide quality health care, especially to the poor and underserved in the way of Christ. The patients who utilize the Medical Center and the warm comradeship of the residents and attending physicians. Finally, the cohesive nature of the entire health care team.
Passions: Supporting the men and women of our Armed Forces, Volunteering in Boy and Girl Scouting, Hiking in the mountains with my family, Learning to play Golf
Favorite Books: The Bible, Killer Angels, Undaunted Courage
Favorite Quotes: There is no limit to the greatness one can achieve if you care not who gets the credit.
After residency plan: Rural Medicine and enjoying \"empty nest life\" with Cava.
Home town: Charleston, SC
Annie Fast
I grew up in the Kansas City area but have lived here in Wichita for two years now. I went to the University of Kansas School of Medicine. My husband is also a new resident this year in our program. We met in medical school and have been married for two years. In my free time I like to bake (mostly because I like to eat) and read. I admit that I am addicted to Grey's Anatomy and CSI (the original one). Mostly I just like to hang out with friends and family.
Why Via Christi? My husband and I chose Via Christi because we knew we would get great training. I really enjoy OB so I was impressed with the OB service. We also chose Via Christi for the experience they have with dealing with couples in medicine. The larger program allows my husband and I more flexibility in correlating our schedules.
After residency plan: My husband and I would like to practice in a small town in Kansas someday but we have no idea where yet.
Home town: Olathe, KS
David / Dave Larson
Married to Laurie 2002. Graduated from Kansas State 2002. Graduated from KU School of Medicine-Wichita 2006
Why Via Christi? I loved interacting with the residents and faculty here when I was a medical student here in Wichita.
Passions: Spending time with my wife and daughter. Reading. Playing noon-ball. Drinking coffee. Men's group from church. Watching college football.
Favorite Books: The Divine Conspiracy. The Gulag Archipelago. John Grisham novels.
After residency plan: I plan to be a country doctor in Central Kansas.
Home town: Tescott, KS
Aron Fast
I am a life-long Kansan - and proud of it. My wife is also a family medicine resident. Last weekend I made a hillbilly golf set and I play it every chance I get, however, I have yet to win.
Passions: I have a variety of interests: running, building furniture, driving my '52 Ford, and enjoying my family. This probably explains why I chose family medicine - I just want to do it all.
Favorite Books: Winning Table Tennis, PrairyEarth, The Hauerwas Reader, the Lore of running
After residency plan: Welcome to tiny town Kansas - population 4 doctors
Home town: Hesston, Kansas
LeeAnn Kettunen
I'm a 3rd year resident. I grew up and did all of my schooling in Alabama, but when it came to residency I decided to travel across the country for the best program for me. I miss my parents and sister back home, whom I love dearly, but I know that being here is what I need to make me an excellent physician. Since starting residency, I have made some major changes in my life. I recently married my best friend, Will, and life couldn't be better! We spend a lot of our time taking our dog, Bear (named after Bear Bryant), for jogs or going to the park. I also enjoy traveling, spending time with friends, and going to the movies. I've been more than pleased with my medical experiences here at Via Christi and for the lifetime friendships I have made here in residency.
Why Via Christi? I literally interviewed across the country to find the right program for me. I enjoyed the people at almost all the programs I interviewed at so for me it came down to where I felt I would learn the most. Out of all the programs I looked at, Via Christi had a higher volume of medicine inpatients, pediatric outpatient and inpatients, and OB care. I felt the faculty were supportive of resident education and also would care about me as a person. I have not been disappointed.
Passions: I enjoy cooking, dancing, watching movies, hanging out with friends and family, and taking my dog to the park almost daily.
Favorite Books: Jane Eyre
After residency plan: My ideal practice would be high volume pediatrics and womens health. I also really enjoy inpatient care and plan to take care of my patients while they are in the hospital. Although I do not plan to use OB while in the states, I am hopefull that I can use those skills on any short term international trips I take in the future.
Home town: Enterprise, AL
Residency stats: Continuity OB deliveries-20 Vaginal Deliveries- 90 C-sections- 42 Forcep Delivery-1; and observed 2 others Vacuum Delivery-5 Colonoscopy- 17 EGD- 19 ICU patients- >50
Meggan Grant
I am from Colorado originally. I went to The Colorado College and attended medical school at KCUMB in Kansas City, MO. Nearing the end of this 3 year residency adventure and will be starting a sports medicine fellowship here at Via Christi in July.
Why Via Christi?
Favorite Quotes: Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that frightens us. We ask ourselves, "Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous?" Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine as children do. It's not just in some of us, it is in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others." ~Marianne Williamson from "A Return To Love"
After residency plan: I would like to practice somewhere in rural Colorado.
Home town: Flagler, CO
Josiah Brinkley
I am now a 3rd year resident, have a wife and a 2 year old daughter. I am originally from Colorado, but now call Kansas home.
Why Via Christi? I felt that Via Christi would give me the best training available. I felt Via Christi would best prepare me to be able to provide complete obstetric care with c-sections for my patients, as well as scopes and full spectrum care.
Passions: Spending time with my wife, hunting with my dogs and buddies, road tripping, golfing, fishing, and camping.
Favorite Books: Ruthless Trust; Searching for God knows What; Black Elk Speaks
After residency plan: I recently signed to practice in Scott City, Kansas doing full spectrum family medicine, including scopes and OB with C-sections.
Home town: Grand Junction, CO
Residency stats: Vag deliveries 120 C-Sections 62 Colonoscopies 55 EGD 50 As of 11/2010
Joshua Brueggemann
Welcome to Via Christi! I am a native Kansan and am proud to be part of such a strong training program in my home state. Not only is Via Christi an excellent residency program, but it is also the the source of some of my most valued friendships and mentoring relationships. Via Christi has been the perfect residency home for me and my family. My wife, Sammie, and I have very much enjoyed our time with the Via Christi family and will deeply miss it when we move on next year. Sammie and I have two children, Nicholas and Natalie, and are expecting little Naomi Grace in September. Wichita has been the perfect place to raise our family the last two years, and we are thankful for all it has to offer. We have found a church we love and many opportunities for fun and entertainment in a city that surprised us. We love it here. We have become involved in the community with various projects including sexual responsibility education for youth, our church's vacation Bible schools, and the residency social group. When we get a chance, we like to travel, entertain guests, and play with our kids.
Why Via Christi? I chose Via Christi for multiple reasons. First, it provides opportunities for a robust and thorough training that is easily accessible. As a father and husband, I want to maximize my training opportunities without needing to take extra time away from my family. At Via Christi, I know I am getting the training I need just by showing up to do my job and doing it well. The work is sometimes intense, but the learning is tremendous. Most importantly, I don't need to go searching for opportunities when I should be spending time with my family. Second, the people at Via Christi are wonderful individuals of values and character. They lift me up morally, ethically, professionally, and academically. I can't imagine working with a better group of people. Third, Via Christi Family Medicine works in an environment where family physicians are valued and given autonomy. We have excellent cooperative relationships with specialists in our community and are an integral force in the success and daily operations of the hospital system. Finally, Via Christi embraces my family and welcomes us into the community. The program has been very interested in helping me become the best physician I can be while still fulfilling my primary commitments as husband and father.
Passions: Working outdoors, playing with my kids, church activities, fishing, traveling, eating chocolate, teaching young people about building character and being sexually responsible, following politics, and eating more chocolate.
Favorite Books: I don't read nearly enough books, but I do like movies. Some of my favorites are Cars, The Shawshank Redemption, Meet Joe Black, and It's a Wonderful Life. One of my recent favorite books is Horton Hears a Who.
Favorite Quotes: "A person's a person, no matter how small..." - Horton, Horton Hears a Who by Dr. Seuss
After residency plan: I am currently looking for jobs in rural or semi-rural Kansas. I have a Kansas Medical Student Loan I need to pay back by working in an underserved county in Kansas. I plan to practice somewhere where I can do full spectrum Family Medicine including operative obstetrics.
Home town: Shawnee, Kansas
Devin Penny
So, grew up south of LA in Downy, Ca. till 14 then finished growing up through high school in Blue Springs, Mo. I am married to a fellow FM resident Melissa Penny and despite every intention to prevent it... God intervened and we now have two beautiful children. The first was born during our Neuro section at KUMC (formerly UHS) and as crazy as it sounds it was perfect timing (Jade-boy). Our second was born in 07 (Eden-girl) also a surprise. (Yes, we are aware that two doctors should have been able to figure this one out, thank you). We have been shocked by the fellowship we have been surrounded by through every step of life we have taken apart and then together. Our expectation has been low (the path is narrow), however, our experience has been a surprising blessing. The culmination of our walk so far has been the loving relationships we found in this residency, despite its size. In other news: my otherwise "stable" and "normal" family fell apart on my transition from Med school to residency. I would write more as I have a nearly fatal lack of personal space but I have a growing understanding that other people don’t (successful training by my wife). Lets just say Melissa and I watch in pain and with much prayer.
Why Via Christi? My focus in life has been more and more turned to service. I am therefore looking for tools to increase my ability to help. I traveled to California, Texas, Dakotas and Ohio without finding a program that offered more than Via Christi Family Medicine. Also this residency is second only to JPS in its size but surpassed any other program I have visited in its genuine Christ-like love for one another. Category after category I could not deny that Via Christi ranked at the top or blatantly surpassed other residency programs in things like procedure numbers, in Medicine teaching, and unexpectedly in the closeness of the residency body as a whole. Wichita, KS, was the only perceived downside and I was out of excuses to convince myself not to rank Via Christi number one... I must admit that I now enjoy Wichita very much. It has everything I could ask for.. except suburbs... but I don't really ask for those :).
Passions: My heart is to figure out how God wants to use me to love (serve) others. I play Guitar, like to sing (too much some would argue), I was a theater minor in college (enough said). I like to read. I have also turned a wonderful high school carrier of making funny home videos into a hobby of making family home videos worth watching. I am always up for sport activity. I also am trying to improve my Spanish.
Favorite Books: Philippians, Mark, 1Timothy Wild at Heart, Irresistible Revolution, Michael Creighton: Andromeda Strain, Jurassic Park, State of Fear. The Lord of the Rings series. The Dark Tower series by Stephen King. Childhoods End by Arthur C. Clark, Looking Backward by Edward Belemi
Favorite Quotes: "No not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouth but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen" "If you have material possession and see a brother in need but have no pity on him, how can the love of God be in you. Dear children, let us not love with word or tongue but in action and in truth."
After residency plan: Melissa (wife, in case you missed that part) has a 4 year commitment to the Military during which time we will be wherever God and the Military want us. I will work part time taking care of the children and staying current with my skills. After that time we will go wherever God and Melissa want us caring for our children and serving the “least of these” .
Home town: Blue Springs, MO
Residency stats: These numbers represent the documentation I can prove, I do admit that I did not have a good system in place until midway through my first year of keeping good records and so these do not represent all of my actual hands on experience. As of 3/09: total deliveries - 164; cesarean - 41; forceps - 6; vacuum - 9; vag. repairs - >40; pudendal blocks - 3; O/B ultrasound - 14; EGD - 25; Colonoscopy - 50; Intubations - 46; Circumcisions - 15; colposcopy - 6; spinal block - 22; epidural block - 50; art line - 3; Central line - 4; TAH - 9; D&C - 9; Paracentesis - 5; Thorocentesis - 3.
Brent Owen
I am from the great state of Iowa. Residency in Kansas is the first time that either my wife or I have lived out of Iowa. I graduated from engineering school at the University of Iowa before attending medical school at the University of Iowa. My wife and I have a 3 year old boy, a 1 year old girl, and a German Shepard named Chloe.
Why Via Christi? I wanted to practice in a small town doing full spectrum family medicine and Via Christi was the best place for me to get that training. I interviewed at many residencies and didn't find the right place until I visited Via Christi. I seemed to fit well with the vision of Via Christi and got along well with the other residents. Via Christi seemed like the only place I could get the training so I could do what I wanted in the future. I figured I needed to "learn it all" while I was in residency so I could do most everything when I get done.
Passions: Road biking, lifting weights and building weight equipment, hunting, fishing, kayaking, church, reading the Bible, welding. I recently rebuilt a 1984 CJ-7 Jeep during my weekends off. Spending time with my wife and kids.
Favorite Books: I don't really read that much and would rather be active outside. But the Bible is good. Favorite non-fiction book is "This Present Darkness"
Favorite Quotes: Roads? Where we are going we don't need roads.
After residency plan: We recently took a job in Algona, Iowa. I plan to do full spectrum family medicine and OB. I came to Via Christi to get a good OB experience and will be doing operative obstetrics in Algona. We start in August 2010!
Home town: Solon, IA
Residency stats: C-Sections: 115 Vaginal deliveries: 170 Continuity Deliveries: 24 Colonoscopy: 180 EGD: 70 Spinals: 75 Epidurals: 40 Paracentesis: 20 Thoracentesis: 20 Stress Treadmills: 20 D&C: 10 Joint Injections: 50 Toe nail removal: 20 ICU admissions: 50+ I have lost count Intubations: 100+ Code Blue: 20+ Vasectomy: 15 Carpal Tunnel: 20 Colposcopy: 20 TAH:12 Laceration Repair: too many to count Frenulectomy: 5 Endometrial Biopsy: 5 Casting/Spints: 20+ Clinic Visits: >1650 because I am graduating Last updated June 2011
Casana Siebert
I am a small town Kansas girl who swore forever that I'd get out of Kansas as soon as I could. . . Until I realized that the "underserved populations" that I was working my way through med school to serve were in rural Kansas. I met Jason in medical school. We recently got married, and we are now starting our search for the perfect community to serve after graduation.
Passions: I LOVE spending time with my husband and our two dogs. We go camping, canoeing, and grill out every chance we get. We also enjoy traveling both in the US and internationally. Most recently we honeymooned in Costa Rica. I like cooking and cook books, gardening veggies and flowers (read: playing in the dirt), napping, dancing (esp in the rain), sushi, Thai food, chop sticks, and reading anything fiction.
Favorite Books: Harry Potter series, Lord of the Rings trilogy, Divinci Code, His Dark Materials trilogy, Eragon series. . . (Do you see a trend? I'm on a fantasy kick)
Favorite Quotes: I expect to pass through this world but once; any good thing therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now; let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again. Ettiene De Grellet
After residency plan: Jason and I hope to join a group practice somewhere in the eastern half of Kansas. My passions within medicine include geriatrics and women's health. I am pulled strongly to providing care to the un- and under-insured, so part of the coming year will be spent figuring out logistically how to keep a clinic afloat while still providing care to those who can't really afford it. Good times!
Home town: Pretty Prairie, Kansas
Dianna Kubacz
Proudly announces birth of our daughter, Hannah Grace, born May 28, 2010! I was born and raised in South Carolina, where my parents and older brother still live. I attended Erskine College, a small school in Due West, SC. During college I spent my summers on medical mission trips to Honduras and Egypt. And it was on the medical mission field in South Africa that I met my husband (and future classmate) Dean. We both attended the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. We moved to Kansas in 2008 specifically to train at Via Christi. Our time here as been all we expected and more.
Why Via Christi? Great obstetrical (surgical emphasis) and pediatric training with dedicated ObGyn and Ped faculty --- all this in a family friendly environment with people we really enjoy! Plus, the international fellowship is in line with where we feel God is leading us long-term. We will be staying in Wichita next year for fellowship training.
Passions: spending time with Dean and Gracie! International medicine, running, cooking ethnic food, crafts, and travel.
Favorite Books: Fearfully and Wonderfully Made Preach and Heal
Favorite Quotes: God gives GOOD gifts!
After residency plan: The international fellowship for a year before making our way overseas to practice medicine while raising our family.
Home town: Aiken, SC
Residency stats: Vaginal Deliveries: 130 C-Sections: 35 Forceps: 5
Jason Brunton
I was born in Wichita, KS but grew up in Blue Springs, MO. I attended Blue Springs High School and still avidly follow the glory of that institution. For my undergraduate degree, I attended The University of Missouri and received a BS in Biology and a minor in Philosophy. I obtained my medical degree from The University of Kansas and spent my clinical years in Wichita. I met Casana, another VC resident in our program, during medical school and we were married last year.
Why Via Christi? During my last two years of medical school, I had the opportunity to see how talented the residents at Via Christi were and how well they interacted with one another. It was also important to Casana and I that we find a program unopposed in Medicine, Pediatrics and OB. In general, Wichita is a wonderful place to learn medicine. Residents are literally on the front line of the healthcare provided and, as such, given a tremendous amount of respect, autonomy and opportunity.
Passions: Number 1-my wife, wouldn’t be me without her. Our 2 dogs, I’d love to have about 12 but my number 1 passion won’t let it happen. Improving and maintaining this residency in any way I can. The University of Missouri and defending the Tigers amid a sea of Jayhawks, Wildcats and an inordinate amount of Sooners. The Royals, the Chiefs, traveling to various baseball stadiums, crossword puzzles (especially Diagramless), traveling abroad, camping, canoeing, fishing, Van Gogh art, charcoal (real) grilling and entomology.
Favorite Books: Arrowsmith, My Own Country, Peterson Field Guide to Insects, The Dark Towers Series, Candide, Don Quixote, The Bourne Trilogy (Only saw the 1st movie, but how can you omit Carlos?), The Stand, Frankenstein and any Top 10 travel book
Favorite Quotes: “We are not here for ourselves alone”- Van Gogh
After residency plan: I hope to join a practice with Casana in a rural community. I enjoy endoscopy, minor procedures, and aggressively managing diabetes. Recently, I have become increasingly interested in Quality Improvement initiatives and hope to incorporate those skills into my future practice as well.
Home town: Blue Springs, MO
Bonnie Charles Smothers
I'm from Clearwater, KS, which is a small town southwest of Wichita. I did my undergrad at the University of Kansas and, as such, I am a die hard Jayhawk fan. I love to spend my spare time with my awesome husband, Ryan, and my adorable cat, Diddle. We love to cook, go to movies, travel, and play music together. My greatest desire in life is to serve the Lord Jesus Christ and let him guide and direct all my activities.
Why Via Christi? I picked Via Christi because I truly believe it is the best place in the country to get broad spectrum training in family medicine. The flexibility of the program, as well as the knowledgeable faculty and welcoming environment made my choice for residency an easy one.
Passions: Christian ministry, music, exercise, Mexican food, gray cats
Favorite Books: The Bible, A Prayer for Owen Meany, The Pride and the Prejudice, Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights
Favorite Quotes: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things." Philippians 4:8
After residency plan: After residency, I'd love to be a family physician in a small town in Kansas. My particular interests are women's health, pediatrics, and endoscopy, but I love taking care of all kinds of patients of all ages.
Home town: Clearwater, KS
Jennifer Bacani
I was born on a cold December morning in a remote hut in the jungles of Madagascar. By "remote hut", I mean small hospital. And by "jungles of Madagascar" I mean Fredonia, Kansas. Otherwise this is all factual. I endured the trials and tribulations of my teenage years along with my fellow Yellowjackets of Fredonia High School. I spent for years as a Jayhawk at the University of Kansas and then four more years as a JayDOC at the KU Medical Center. Somewhere along the way, I married this guy named Bob. And together we live in Wichita happily ever after...
Why Via Christi? After being convinced that I was finished with Kansas life, I looked at many programs across the country. To my surprise, I found that no other residency programs compared to what we have here at Via Christi for full spectrum family medicine training.
Passions: I love golfing, fly fishing, and snow skiing! As far as talents go, I once won 8 gold medals at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Wait, that was Michael Phelps...
Favorite Quotes: "60% of the time, it works every time." -- Brian Fontana in the Anchorman
After residency plan: I plan to practice in rural Kansas. Shortly after this, I would like to cure cancer and then become president of the world. But first I think I'll start with rural Kansas.
Home town: Fredonia, Kansas
Dee Ann Stults
I was born and raised in Richmond, Indiana--home to the world's largest RV dealership and, more importantly, my wonderful and quirky family. My formal education came by way of Wheaton College and IU Med school, but I've also been shaped by listening to the stories of my grandparents; discoursing at the table with my 3 siblings; watching the example of my parents; traveling to Guatemala, Ecuador, and Pakistan; living in community; feeling like a stranger; listening to good music; and finding the life that is truly life.
Passions: The glory of God, brushing my teeth, playing the piano, avoiding elevators, singing harmony (not to be confused with e-harmony), traveling, fiber, writing, super natural cooking, figuring out what to do with my darkroom, eating real-fruit popsicles
Favorite Books: Tess of the D'Urbervilles, Charlotte's Web, The Kite Runner, A Thousand Splendid Suns, An American Childhood, Middlemarch, Les Miserables, Huckleberry Finn, Mansfield Park, The Brothers Karamazov, Compassion, and a bunch of works of poetry
Favorite Quotes: "Nothing that you have not given away will ever be really yours." -CS Lewis
After residency plan: My ultimate hope is to live a life of simplicity and servanthood. At this point I would like to work in Asia doing women's health, treating children, and teaching midwifery. But to be sure, I don't even know what will happen tomorrow.
Drew Miller
My wife and I have been married for 6 years. We have a 2 month old daughter. We are both initially from rural Kansas (Ford and Leoti). Undergrad: Sterling College. Medical School: University of Kansas School of Medicine. Following graduation from the residency, Drew and Rachel have settled into a rural private practice in Lakin, KS.
Why Via Christi? Two reasons: 1. The full-scope experience - including an exceptional OB experience and plenty of procedures (especially scopes). 2. The residents - I found a program where I enjoyed who I worked with.
Passions: My #1 priority is serving my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. My wife and I enjoy spending time together and with our daughter, Emma. I enjoy playing basketball (noon-ball especially) and also enjoy playing the piano.
After residency plan: I plan on practicing full scope family medicine in rural KS (more specific location to be determined...)
Home town: Leoti, KS
April McQuillen
Paul and April are from the Kansas City area. They both attended Truman State University and completed medical school in Kirksville, MO at the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine. They have two dogs, Georgia and Roxy, and assorted fish. Paul and April enjoy camping, fly-fishing, running, biking, swimming and snow skiing. They have a new baby girl - Abby Jo - born April 25th.
Sam Ratermann
Sam and his wife Shannon arrived in Wichita from Tulsa, Oklahoma with a desire to pursue a career in rural family medicine. Sam's undergraduate training is in mechanical engineering and Shannon is a pediatric physical therapist.
Why Via Christi? OB, procedures, and excellent hands-on training
Passions: Fishing, hunting, golfing, photography, cooking, and anything outdoors.
After residency plan: Eastern Oklahoma
Home town: Bixby, Oklahoma
Jennifer Cheng
I was born and raised in Wichita, Kansas. I went to the University of Kansas for undergrad and majored in Psychology. Following graduation from undergrad, I began medical school at Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences. I met my husband in high school and we recently got married (May '08) after dating for 8 years. Lucky me, I had the same last name as him (no relation!) and I didn't have to change my name. Hoorah! He is also an intern and is doing his prelim in Wichita and will be starting Radiology next year in Wichita as well.
Why Via Christi? I did my last two years of medical school in Wichita. Most of my core rotations (such as peds, OB, and medicine) were with Via Christi Family Medicine. I really enjoyed how the program was set up and I liked how involved the faculty was with the program. I liked how there were tons of opportunities for procedures that were always available to anyone. Most importantly, the residents were awesome, very knowledgeable, and were very confident in their skills. I'm not exactly sure what type of practice I wanted to have, but I wanted a program that would provide me the opportunity to learn everything and be confident once I began practice on my own.
Passions: In my spare time, I love to play with my pekingese, Gizmo, cook, go fishing, travel, spend time with the hubby, and spend time with my family.
After residency plan: I am really not sure where I'll end up after residency. Wherever that may be, I'd like to practice full spectrum Family medicine and try to squeeze in couple kids in between!
Home town: Wichita, Kansas
Lee Leinwetter
My name Lee Leinwetter. I am 28 yrs old. I grew up in Topeka Kansas, and graduated from The University of Kansas with a B.S. in Biochemistry. I completed medical training at Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences in 2006. I married Laura Elizabeth Anderson from San Antonio Texas May 28, 2005. We have an 15 month old child, Anderson Leinwetter.
Why Via Christi? Great residents. Great faculty. Great program.
Passions: Family, My dog a golden retriever, KU sports, church, running, fishing, movies, day trading
Favorite Quotes: "Never, Never, Never give up" - Churchill
Home town: Topeka, KS
Marc Carrigan
I am originally from Normal, IL, and attended undergrad at Illinois Wesleyan University and medical school at Southern Illinois University. I am married to the beautiful Stephanie June who graciously supported me through medical school. I chose family medicine because I loved every rotation during my 3rd year and wanted to do it all. Still do! I enjoy any type of outdoor/sporting activity: football, basketball, hockey, running, biking, fishing…. I also enjoy reading, but have had a tough time fitting it in as an intern.
Why Via Christi? The Experience: Not many programs in the country will allow you to do 50-70 C-sections, 150-200 vaginal deliveries, manage pediatric and medicine patients in the ICU, work side by side with sports medicine fellows, and participate in a one of a kind international medicine fellowship. The Residents: I have not met a single person out of 54 residents that I wouldn’t want to hang out with on a Friday night. Everyone is a pleasure to be around… even at 6 AM. There is also such a team attitude here with people willing to help me out during rounds if I get behind, trade call nights, and pitch in a hand whenever needed. The Faculty: Second to none. Great to work with and learn from. Family medicine faculty that are up to date on medicine, peds, and OB. A pediatrician, nephrologist, and ENT on staff. OB/GYN’s, surgeons, and peds intensivists that truly want to teach us how to do what they do. The City: Surprise! Wichita is pretty cool. I was skeptical myself, but came to find that there are tons of restaurants, hang outs, semi-pro sports, outdoor activities, and shopping for my wife. And housing is very affordable.
Favorite Books: "Soul Survivor" by Philip Yancey
Favorite Quotes: "It's strange - those of us who involve ourselves in places where there is the most suffering, look back in surprise to find that it was there that we discovered the reality of joy." - Paul Brand
After residency plan: I love the poor and medically underserved. My wife is a family nurse practitioner and we want to work in a developing country when I finish residency. Our plan is to do a 4-year term and then re-evaluate our future. We are open to career overseas service or moving back to the states to work with the urban poor
Tobi Dawodu
Tobi is from Nigeria, although you would never know it from his cosmopolitan accent. He loves extreme skiing as he spent some years in St. Catharines, Ontario.
Dean Kubacz
I was born and raised in South Carolina and am the 2nd oldest of five children (4 boys and 1 girl). I studied forestry at Clemson University and spent several years working with the US Forest Service in Colorado. While finishing my masters in Forestry/Fire Management, God began to redirect my path toward medicine. I attended medical school in Charleston, SC, with my wife Dianna before heading to Kansas for residency training in family medicine. Dianna and I completed residency in 2011 and were blessed with a daughter during our second year. Gracie is a ball of energy and the source of many smiles. We are now completing the International Family Medicine Fellowship with the Carrigan family. In January, we head to Galmi Hospital in Niger, West Africa. Please pray for us!
Why Via Christi? Great combination of full-spectrum training with solid procedural numbers and dedicated faculty/residents who are a joy to work with.
Passions: I enjoy being outdoors, I love my wonderful wife and beautiful daughter, and I am learning more and more about how much God loves me.
Favorite Books: Holy Bible Fearfully and Wonderfully Made Eternity in Their Hearts The Hobbit
Favorite Quotes: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Jesus Christ "No, no I'm not." The main guy in Pride and Prejudice to the main girl in the same movie when she tells him she thought he was in London but the two of them are standing there, together in some place that is definitely not London.
After residency plan: First, a year of the International Fellowship with our great friends the Carrigans. Then, practice medicine in a rural setting -- either small town USA or international medicine -- wherever God leads us.
Home town: Greenville, SC
Residency stats: ICU admits - lots and lots Vaginal deliveries - 120+ C-Sections - 65+ Colonoscopy - 65+ EGD - 25+
Melissa Cardwell
I grew up in a small Kansas town, went to undergrad in a small Iowa town, and returned to Kansas for medical school. I love the Midwest and have received a fabulous medical education in Wichita. My husband is a Via Christi Family Medicine graduate and currently works as a hospitalist with a group owned by previous VCFM grads. The people here are wonderful!
Passions: I like to run and read for fun. The annual Wichita marathon is a great race, and the YMCAs around the area are super nice! My husband and I enjoy movies at the Warren and eating out. We are also involved in our church.
Favorite Quotes: "You can give without loving. But you cannot love without giving." Amy Carmichael
After residency plan: My husband loves his job with the local hospitalist group, so I am looking for something in the area. We will likely move on some day to full scope family medicine in a rural community.
Home town: Ellinwood, Kansas
Residency stats: Vaginal Deliveries-stopped counting at 150, 5 forceps and plenty of vacuums C-Sections-50 with one more month of OB to go! Circumcisions-25