Alumni

Use the buttons to jump or simply scroll down.

Class of 2024

Class of 2023

Class of 2022

Class of 2024

Matthew Brettmann, M.D.

Class of 2024

Hometown: Overland Park, KS

Undergrad: Kansas State University

Medical School: University of Kansas School of Medicine

Practice Location After Graduation: International Medicine Fellowship at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis – Wichita, KS

Personal Note

Born in Phoenix but lived most my life in Kansas City. I went to Kansas State for undergrad and the University of Kansas school of medical. I am down for anything as long as people are involved. I’d play basketball any day, but my goal is to make Greenwood the pickleball center of SC. I’m also into deep books and board games. I want to go do international work after residency. Self is a hard-working residency with great broad training (shown in its great board scores) that is filled with brilliant but also somehow the nicest attendings and residents. There was no program out there that is as supportive for the residents.

Joshua Cox, D.O.

Class of 2024

Hometown: Middleton, TN

Undergrad: Blue Mountain College

Medical School: Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Practice Location After Graduation: Outpatient Family Medicine at Lexington Medical Center Lexington Family Practice – Gilbert in Gilbert, SC

Personal Note

I am originally from Mississippi grew up in West Virginia and the last place I called home was in Tennessee. My wife and I love to hang out with our 2 dogs, spend time with friends and watch Mississippi State in any sport! We are so excited about being a part of the Self Regional Family.

We chose Self because of the legacy of excellence academically and mostly the people! I was looking for a place that would be a challenge to become a competent and confident physician while being in a supportive environment and felt like Self was the best place for that. When my wife and I came down for the interview I kept telling her that the people of here were people I would want to be around in medicine and would aspire to be like. They work hard but are also some of the kindest people I have met. All along the way everyone went out of their way to be available and answer any questions. One of the things that stood out the most is that they treated my wife’s opinion as important as my own and continue to engage her as we transition to South Carolina. I feel like it the best combination of an extremely strong program while maintaining a family like environment.

Jordan Freeland, D.O.

Class of 2024

Hometown: Japan, Alaska, Virginia

Undergrad: University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, VA

Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Blacksburg, VA

Practice Location After Graduation: Outpatient Primary Care at Valley Health in Berkeley Springs, WV

Personal Note

Jordan was born in Japan and grew up in Alaska, eventually settling in Virginia, where he attended both college and medical school. Prior to medical school he spent time in both volunteer and career EMS, which led him to a career in medicine. He chose to pursue Family Medicine as an avenue to serve the needs of patients of all ages and from all walks of life, and ultimately plans to practice in a rural community. In his free time, he enjoys reading, working on house projects, and being outside as much as possible, whether it be taking short trips to new places, hiking or camping, or the occasional sailing trip.

Ian Glidden, M.D.

Class of 2024 – Chief

Hometown: Fargo, ND

Undergrad: University of North Dakota Grand Forks, ND

Medical School: Ross University Barbados

Practice Location After Graduation: Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship at Prisma Health – Richland in Columbia, SC

Personal Note

I grew up in the Fargo/Moorhead area of the Red River Valley which is located on the border of Minnesota and North Dakota. I enjoy outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and camping as well as water sports and pickleball. My journey to medicine started as soon as I could answer “What did I want to be when I grew up?” I majored in Biology at the University of North Dakota, where I also met my wife. I attended Iowa State University for my Master’s in Biomedical Science and Ross University for my medical doctorate.

My first interaction with Self was early on during my interview season and I was impressed. My wife also loved the fact that she felt included during the interview process. I desire to practice full-spectrum family medicine and the extensive inpatient and obstetrics experience will be a strong foundation for my future. All of this, in combination with the caring nature of the faculty and staff during our visit to Greenwood, confirmed that Self Regional was the place for us.

Jordan Jackson, M.D.

Class of 2024

Hometown: Wheeler, MS

Undergrad: Northeast Mississippi Community College in Booneville, MS, Mississippi State University in Starkville, MS

Medical School: University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS

Practice Location After Graduation: Inpatient and Outpatient Family Medicine mix at Baptist Memorial Hospital – Leake in Carthage, MS

Personal Note

Hey! My name is Jordan Jackson and I’m just a small-town guy who loves to experience new things in this world. I love traveling, hiking, cooking, movies and spending time with friends, family, and my wife. It was fairly easy to choose Self Regional. I couldn’t tell who were residents and who were spouses/friends because of how close and welcoming everyone was to each other. Between the amazing training, wanting to experience life in South Carolina, and the family friendly environment, picking Self Regional was a no-brainer.

Gerald “JP” Megna, M.D.

Class of 2024

Hometown: Cooper City, FL

Undergrad: Florida State University

Medical School: Florida State University College of Medicine

Practice Location After Graduation: Sports Medicine Fellowship at Self Regional Healthcare – Greenwood, SC

Personal Note

I chose Self because everyone was very nice and welcoming during the interview.

In my free time I enjoy anything sports related (watching, playing, coaching), I enjoy being active and outside, and I enjoy cooking.

Christopher “Chris” Roxon, M.D.

Class of 2024

Hometown: Wadmalaw Island, SC

Undergrad: Clemson University, Clemson, SC

Medical School: The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Charleston, SC

Practice Location After Graduation: Outpatient Family Medicine at MUSC Carolina Family Care – Charleston, SC

Personal Note

Love to spend time with my wife and dogs, big into fitness, enjoy anything outdoors especially on the water. Wanted to come to Self Regional because of the family atmosphere. They cared not only for me and developing me as a person/physician but also my wife and her goals and desires which was a huge pull. Got to stay in South Carolina. It is a very well-rounded program with full scope family medicine training where they breed an atmosphere of humility and service. Galatians 5:13

Maria Westerfield, M.D.

Class of 2024 – Chief

Hometown: The Rock, GA

Undergrad: University of North Georgia; Dahlonega, GA

Medical School: Mercer University School of Medicine; Macon, GA

Practice Location After Graduation: Sports Medicine Fellowship at Self Regional Healthcare – Greenwood, SC

Personal Note

I was born and raised in small, rural Pike County, GA where I grew up playing outside, working in the garden, and riding horses. I attended UNG for undergrad where I majored in Biology and was able to develop a love for the Appalachian Mountains. During my gap year before attending Mercer for medical school, I worked with local small farm operations to develop organic practices for pest control. I am passionate about rural and underserved populations, and have been to both the Dominican Republic and Honduras for medical missions. When not busy, you can catch me with my dog Duke enjoying anything and everything outdoors such as hiking and camping, kayaking, rock climbing, fishing, and playing any kind of sport.

During the crazy season of virtual interviews (thanks Covid), Self was one of the only programs to allow an in-person option (following proper safety regulations). I gladly accepted and immediately felt welcomed and at home with the people here. Everyone is so warm and genuine, and the unopposed broad scope training residents get here sold me. I have strong interests in rural and global health, both which have robust programs here. My second look sealed the deal as everyone was so supportive and accommodating, and the program stood out among others in the training, faculty, and community they offer. I’m excited to see the physician I will become through the exceptional training at Self, and know I will be prepared for my future patients both in a rural setting and on international soil.

Timothy Wilson, M.D. “Mark”

Class of 2024

Hometown: Sumter, South Carolina

Undergrad: Clemson University

Medical School: University of South Carolina School of Medicine

Practice Location After Graduation: Outpatient Family Medicine at MUSC Health Primary Care – Lugoff, SC

Personal Note

Growing up as the oldest of four in the small, South Carolinian town of Sumter, I was surrounded by family connections to medicine, but never imagined I would join them. Upon completing high school, I went to Clemson for Bioengineering, pursuing prosthetic development. Along the way, however, I realized that my fascination with the broad expanse of human physiology and the joy in interacting with the people I cared for, was more consistent with a career in medicine. While I prepared for and worked through medical school, family medicine attracted me with its direct, continuous patient relationships and broad scope of medical problems it addressed. When I’m not studying or working on rotations, I enjoy the company of good board games, good books, and great friends. I also deeply appreciate the fellowship and truth that my family and local church have provided me.

It was during rotations at the University of South Carolina SOM in Columbia that I first heard about Self Regional from one of my attendings. He had been a resident at Self Regional and spoke highly of his attendings and the rigorous training they provided. What he told me about the quality of the education and others told me about the nature of the community that Self Regional promoted in its residents prompted me to explore Self’s residency program for myself! As I learned more and visited the program personally, its excellent academics, close community, friendly residents, and approachable attendings made me confident it was my first choice in every way. I am thrilled to be joining the team at Self Regional and look forward to both the learning opportunities and the relationships that make this program so special.

Harriet Wingrove, M.D.

Class of 2024

Hometown: Oxfordshire, England

Undergrad: University of South Florida, Tampa, FL

Hometown: Elko, NV

Undergrad: Biola University, La Mirada, CA

Medical School: Campbell University, School of Osteopathic Medicine, Buies Creek, NC

Practice Location After Graduation: Outpatient Family Medicine at Lexington Family Practice – West Columbia, SC

Personal Note

I grew up in Elko, NV, a small mining and ranching community in the middle of nowhere Nevada. It was a great place to grow up with an all-American feel, everyone showed up to support the one high school, lots of parades, and a county fair that brought in people from all over. I moved away to sunny Southern California for college where I received a Bachelors in Biological Sciences and minored in Biblical and Theological Studies. I then moved to the East Coast and earned a Masters at Rutgers University. I had planned to go back west for medical school, but Campbell not only had a big focus on medical missions and active Christian community, but I instantly fell in love with the Carolinas. I knew I ultimately wanted to work and practice in a place much more similar to my hometown, a place where people were invested in their community and you knew your neighbors.

Not only was Self everything I wanted in a program, academic and clinical excellence with a family feel, Greenwood was exactly what I wanted in a community. The faculty, staff, and residents instantly made it feel like home and it was obviously they not only valued me as a physician, but also as a person. Additionally, I am particularly interested in medical missions and hospice and palliative care and Self has excellent opportunities for both. Self has the faculty and residents I want to be like, personally and professionally. I feel incredibly blessed to get to call Greenwood home.

In my free time I enjoy traveling (I have been to 47/50 states, done several cross-country road trips, and a few countries), hiking, photography, history, baking, being involved with my church, and adventures with my lab, Huxley.

Elizabeth Hutson, M.D.

Class of 2023

Hometown: Eudora, AR

Undergrad: Hendrix College, Conway, AR

Medical School: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR

Practice Location After Graduation: Outpatient Family Medicine and Inpatient Laborist at Mercy Hospital System – Waldron, AR

Personal Note

I grew up on a farm outside of Eudora, AR. After graduating high school, I went to college at Hendrix College in Conway, AR. I met my husband during my sophomore year at church (he went to a different college in town). We got married a week after college graduation, and I started medical school at UAMS that fall.

While at UAMS, we’ve had three kids: Kaitlyn, born right after 1st year, Pete, born 13 months later during a much needed leave of absence, and Rebekah born February of my 4th year. They are the center of our world! Between my schooling and my husband’s coaching schedule, we spend most of our free time at home or with family. We love to cook, play outside, and watch movies all together.

When I started medical school, I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to do other than practice in a rural area. With this in mind, I finally settled on family medicine so I could offer the most possible to my future patients. I then looked for a residency that could train me in full scope practice including obstetrics. Greenwood was my first interview and my first choice. The program had all of the training I was looking for which was wonderful, but what hooked me was the people here. I immediately felt at home with everyone I met. At the end of my interview, I didn’t want to leave. We all hear during interview season we need to find a place where the people will support you as a whole person not just a physician, and you definitely have that here. The people here are a family that is happy to welcome you and whatever family you bring with you.

Margaret “Meg” Lohf, M.D.

Class of 2023

Hometown: Clemson, SC

Undergrad: Clemson University, Clemson, SC

Medical School: Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC

Practice Location After Graduation: (Short Term) Inpatient Family Medicine at Genesis – Davenport, IA and Long Term: Outpatient Family Medicine at Erlanger – Hayesville, NC.

Personal Note

I was born in Davenport, IA and grew up there before moving to Pittsburgh, PA. I enjoyed Pittsburgh, especially Primanti Bros. sandwiches and cheering on the Steelers. When my sister moved south for college, I decided to do the same! At Clemson, I was able to combine my passions for Spanish and health while studying Language and International Health which took me to Costa Rica, Argentina, Nicaragua, and Spain. After I graduated, my parents moved to Clemson from Pittsburgh, and I moved to Zaragoza, Spain to teach English and culture in two public elementary schools. I enjoy exploring new places, whether it be towns closer to home or those farther away. Other hobbies include stand-up paddleboarding, trying new recipes, brewing beer with my dad, and watching Clemson football.

Self Regional easily stood out for me on my residency interview trail! After meeting the team and learning about the program, it was clear Self Regional would be where I would receive exceptional training to become the Family Medicine physician I would like to be. The people are truly kind and very supportive, a group I am excited to be a part of.

Davis Reed, M.D.

Class of 2023

Hometown: Charleston, SC

Undergrad: Clemson University, Clemson, SC

Medical School: Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC

Practice Location After Graduation: Hospitalist Fellowship at Prisma Health- Greenville, SC

Personal Note

I was born and raised in Gastonia, NC. My family then moved down to Charleston, SC when I was in 7th grade. I attended Clemson University and majored in Bioengineering. It was during my Senior year that I met and fell in love with my beautiful wife Jess. After Clemson, I returned back home to Charleston for medical school at MUSC and Jess and I got married after my first year there. Medicine is a passion of mine that I feel God has called me into, but I also enjoy many other aspects of life including spending time with Jess and our dog Sidney, CrossFit, college football (Go Tigers!), hiking/backpacking, volunteering at our local church, financial literacy, and learning more about nutrition.

Family Medicine has always been on my radar due to my strong interests in preventative and lifestyle medicine as well as building long-lasting relationships with patients. I first heard about Self from some close friends who went to residency there, and they had nothing but good things to say about it. During my 3rd year of medical school I was able to do my Family Medicine rotation at Self for 6 weeks and saw first-hand what makes this place so special. I quickly discovered that not only do the faculty and residents at Self provide high quality evidence-based medicine, but they also display a genuine love for their patients. Additionally, the full-scope training offered at Self including a robust Sports Medicine curriculum ensured that they would be my top choice for residency.

Jacob Standard, M.D.

Class of 2023

Hometown: Springfield, IL

Undergrad: Wheaton College, Wheaton, IL

Medical School: Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL

Practice Location After Graduation: Outpatient Family Medicine at Village Health Partners – Frisco, TX

Personal Note

I’m from Springfield, Illinois-the hometown of Abraham Lincoln! I grew up playing soccer, basketball, singing, and acting. In my free time, I enjoy playing sports, reading, and spending time outdoors. I enjoy connecting with people and find humor in the mundane. I attended Wheaton College where I was an Applied Health Science major. One of the best decisions during college was choosing to spend a summer as a camp counselor in northern Wisconsin. Highlights from that summer include learning to kayak, throwing clay on a pottery wheel, and canoeing overnight in a 54-mile race!

Between college and medical school, I worked in an emergency department for several years. As a third-year medical student, I fell in love with family medicine. I enjoyed being able to care for all patients in a variety of settings and wanted to be in a position to serve my patients and their families for years and decades at a time.

My brother Joe who is a family medicine resident in Iowa encouraged me to meet Self at the AAFP National Conference. When I attended the conference, I was impressed with how personable the faculty were. I found people with whom I could both easily laugh and have serious discussions. Over the course of interview season, I grew in my desire to pursue excellence as a family medicine physician. Feeling a sense of God’s calling to care for patients as a physician, I felt like Self offered the best training to help me become the excellent family medicine physician that I am striving to become.

Troy Watson, M.D.

Class of 2023

Hometown: Pontiac, Illinois

Undergrad: Olivet Nazarene University, Bourbonnais, Illinois

Medical School: University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford, Rockford, IL

Practice Location After Graduation: OB Fellowship at Tallahassee Memorial – Tallahassee, FL

Personal Note

I grew up in central Illinois in a small town called Pontiac. I have always been interested in family medicine as my mother is a family nurse practitioner. During medical school, I was a member of the Rural Medical Education Department (RMED) and plan to practice full-scope, rural family medicine. Family medicine offers a unique opportunity to provide a wide variety of services to a small community while also developing meaningful relationships with patients.

Having spent three summers in east Tennessee with a college ministry program, I was interested to check out programs in the southeast region. I learned about Self when I met Dr. Tiller at the AAFP National Conference in Kansas City. When I interviewed in Greenwood, I felt the warm southern hospitality and could tell that the program was filled with great residents, faculty, and staff. I left knowing that Self would provide me with the top-notch training and procedural skills to be an excellent rural family physician.

During my free time, I enjoy a good cup of coffee, playing sports, hiking, hunting, and riding my motorcycle.

Mark “Reed” Watts, D.O.

Class of 2023

Hometown: Lugoff, SC

Undergrad: Clemson University, Clemson, SC

Medical School: VCOM Carolinas, Spartanburg, SC

Practice Location After Graduation: Hospitalist Group at Self Regional Healthcare – Greenwood, SC

Personal Note

I was born in Lugoff, South Carolina, a small town in the middle of the state. I grew up enjoying the outdoors, in particular hunting, fishing, woodworking and farming. I went to Clemson University for undergrad where I majored in Biological Sciences, After graduating from Clemson, I went on to get my masters degree in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, MS. I attended Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Spartanburg, SC for medical school. I knew that I wanted a residency in a small town in South Carolina, which is initially what made Self Regional catch my eye. When I interviewed at Self Regional, I was blown away with the family feeling that I felt from everyone I encountered while on my interview. I am so excited to be able to learn from the wonderful people and train alongside such a special group of residents that make up the Self Regional family.

Class of 2022

John Beasley, MD

Class of 2022

Hometown: Greenville, SC

Undergrad: Furman University

Medical School: University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville

PERSONAL NOTE

I was born in Greenville, SC and returned there after high school to attend Furman University, where I majored in Neuroscience and Philosophy. My wife Maria and I crossed paths after our churches went through a merge. We got married in the fall of my first year of medical school, and we welcomed our daughter, Marleigh, into the world right before I took Step 1!

I was born in Birmingham, AL, spent my formative years of middle/high school in Hillsboro, MO, and moved to Augusta, GA, 10 years ago. Since this is really the place I have lived the longest, I consider it my “hometown.” I was raised by my Alabama-bred parents who taught me the two most important things in life – “Jesus loves you” and “Roll Tide.” I met my husband, Tyler, when I was 13 years old.

I moved from Missouri to Georgia to attend Augusta University for undergrad, chasing above mentioned heart thief. From there, I attended VCOM Carolinas for medical school. It was during my third year of school that I realized I enjoyed every part of medicine, in all of its intricacies and interwoven parts. Family medicine is unique in that it gives you an opportunity to walk through the ups and downs of life with someone through many years. What an incredible honor that is!

Too often patients are viewed as the sum of their diseases, and I knew I wanted to find a program that would teach me to view them as people – mind, body, spirit. This is one of the reasons Self Regional towered far above any other program on my list. From the first time I viewed their website and through the interview process – it was blatantly obvious that people are what matter here. And after seeing how the interns interacted with upper levels and the residents interacted with faculty, it was clear that relationships are valued, as well. There is a true family atmosphere at Self, and Ty and I are so excited to be joining the family this summer!

Michael Simhachalam, MD

Class of 2022

Hometown: Gulf Breeze, FL

Undergrad: Berry College

Medical School: Creighton School of Medicine

PERSONAL NOTE

Growing up in Gulf Breeze, FL, I enjoyed playing sports and being on the water. Later on, I traded the beaches and water for mountains and the Appalachian Trail at Berry College. While there, I spent a lot of time hiking and studying biochemistry. After college, I was accepted to Creighton School of Medicine. Through Creighton, I got to experience living in snow in Omaha and then exploring desert life in Phoenix. Throughout my education, I developed a love for international work, sports medicine, and working in small towns. My passion lies in working with people within the feel and connectedness of a small community.

I was blown away by the authenticity of Self Regional’s Family Medicine residency. Going to their interview felt like going home. I felt welcomed and wanted here at the program — I came away with the impression that they worked hard to create a culture of supporting each other and working hard. Self Regional is in a smaller town that has excellent opportunities for me to explore all my interests. Most importantly, I knew that these were people I would want to experience life with. I could not be happier to start my residency here.

Nathan Smith, MD

Class of 2022

Hometown: Sandy Springs, Georgia

Undergrad:
University of Notre Dame – 2006
Georgia State University – 2015

Medical School: Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University

PERSONAL NOTE

I was born in Memphis, Tennessee and raised in Sandy Springs, Georgia. I studied anthropology at the University of Notre Dame with the goal of becoming a forensic anthropologist, but God had other plans. After completing my degree, I wasn’t satisfied with my limited career options, so my father suggested I find work in the medical field. Hesitant to return to school without knowing I loved the discipline, I applied for a job as an EMT. Within weeks of treating my first patient, I discovered my passion for medicine.

I spent 8 years working as an EMT and paramedic in metro Atlanta. While I loved the experience, I wanted to play a greater role in treating illness and preventing human suffering, so I completed a biology degree at Georgia State University and applied to medical school. Given my background, I assumed I would practice Emergency Medicine, but by then I should have known God had other plans for me.

I truly believe I discovered Self through divine intervention. As a third-year medical student at the Medical College of Georgia, I completed my only away rotation at Self’s Family Healthcare clinic in Edgefield, SC. The clerkship revealed the many career paths available to family physicians and allowed me to witness the profound impact physicians have in fulfilling the healthcare needs of their communities. I was hooked as soon as I started. My experience with Self during interview season only strengthened my view of the program.

My lovely wife, Leanne, is a former marketing analyst who now works part-time in graphic design. We have two dogs and hope to have several children. We enjoy traveling, hiking, swimming, gardening, and fixing up old homes.

Kelsey Spearman, MD

Class of 2022

First, to clarify, I’m the second one from the left in this picture with my family on a trip to the Ark Encounter in Kentucky. But I grew up in the small town of Varnville, South Carolina. I majored in Biochemistry at Claflin University in Orangeburg, SC. Between college graduation and high school, I lived in Guatemala for about six months and went back to my hometown to substitute teach. During that time, I trusted in my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for salvation, and my life has never been the same! I love spending time with my parents and two younger siblings, as well as with my church family. I also enjoy listening to Christian music and traveling. Crochet has become the newest craft I have picked up!

I grew up in the mountains of Northern California in a small town that no one has ever heard of. Since that time, I have lived in four different states. Along the way I have been blessed with an amazing wife and two beautiful daughters. My story has been one of providence. My faith drew me into medicine and God has provided in abundance along the way.

I randomly came across Self while searching for residencies near my sister who lives in Aiken, SC. I left the interview knowing that my family was going to be facing a real possibility of moving to a new state. This was huge since my wife is from Texas and Texans rarely leave.

I felt like I was at home and surrounded by family. I am honored to have the opportunity to learn and grow with such an outstanding group of people!

Class of 2020

Erica Eaddy, M.D.

Class of 2020

Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia

Undergrad: University of Georgia

Medical School: Medical College of Georgia

Practice Location after Graduation: Outpatient at Piedmont Healthcare in Fayetteville, GA

My name is Garrett Rowe and I’m from the beautiful upstate of South Carolina, more specifically Travelers Rest! Growing up in the country I grew to love fishing, farming, and raising all kinds of animals. I love fixing things and learning how they work. This is part of the reason I enjoy learning about how beautifully the Lord has designed us.

I have spent the last eight years in Charleston where I met my beautiful wife Christy. We have an awesome golden doodle, Finn, whose only real skill is cuddling with his mom. Self stood out to both of us on the interview trail because of its people. Everyone is treated like family and the primary focus is showing love to the community. We are looking forward to spending the next three years in Greenwood, growing friendships and strengthening our faith.

ut will also grow and develop my love for people. The staff and residents at Self made it clear that they will quickly come to be part of my extended family, given the kindness and warmth I felt during my visits. I am thankful for the opportunity to train in such a supportive environment and I can’t wait to see what the next 3 year have in store.

Grant Woodfin, M.D.

Class of 2020

Hometown: Stanton, Texas

Undergrad: Texas A&M University

Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine

Practice Location after Graduation: Outpatient at Midlothian Family Practice in Midlothian, VA

PERSONAL NOTE

I grew up in a tiny town in rural West Texas. Stanton is known for a sign on the interstate welcoming travelers stating it is “home of 3,000 friendly people and a few old soreheads.” My wife, Tracye, and I began our friendship when we were 11 years old at a summer church camp and married after college. After attending Texas A&M University and working as a civil engineer, I felt the calling to pursue a career as a family medicine physician. While it has been challenging, I have not once regretted the career change.

Tracye, Ethan (our 9 year old son) and I are thrilled and thankful to have matched at Self. I was impressed with the top-notch training provided in a community that feels like “family”. My medical interests include full-spectrum family medicine care with emphasis on underserved populations.

We enjoy reading books and traveling as a family, are sports enthusiasts and Texas Aggie fans, and look forward to welcoming a dog to the family soon.

“Our greatest fear should not be of failure but of succeeding at things in life that don’t really matter.”

— Francis Chan

Class of 2019

Joanne Boggs, M.D.

Class of 2019

Hometown: Columbus, Georgia

Undergrad: University of Georgia

Medical School: Medical College of Georgia

Practice Location after Graduation: Hospitalist at Self Regional Healthcare – Greenwood, SC

PERSONAL NOTE

As a former army brat, I spent my childhood moving across the United States before ultimately settling down in Columbus, Georgia. I went to school at the University of Georgia (Go Dawgs!), where I put my lifelong bookworm habits into use studying for my English degree. Afterward, I spent a couple of semesters in South Korea teaching English in elementary schools and spending time with my family there.

Although commonly asked if I’m from Georgia or sung a version of Ray Charles’ hit “Georgia on My Mind,” my name comes from my Grandpa, George. I’ve been living in South Carolina now for almost eight years and am enamored by the region. My favorite place to be is outside, preferably in the mountains or on the lake, with my dog Jackson and the people I love (most importantly!). Friends would describe me as adventurous, fun-loving, and optimistic. Discovering new places, ideas, people, and cultures brings me great joy. I think any situation can be overcome with some perspective and gratitude, and I believe in creating health for people and our planet. Interests in medicine include full-spectrum care, underserved populations and global health, procedures, women’s health, hospice care, and integrative medicine. Music, nature, and backpacking are my other loves.

Why Self? I interviewed at 20 programs from the East to the West Coast, and initially thought I wanted to spend residency in a big city. However, I did an away rotation at Self and fell in love. Not only is the program top-notch, but I felt truly at home and noticed an unmatched positivity and support among the residents and faculty. As for the city, Greenwood is a small town with big values. Everyone you meet is super friendly! Living here helps keep life simple, and my mind focused and clear in what can be a stressful time. I recently bought a small home where I started a food garden and welcomed three chickens…feel free to stop by for some goods 🙂 I am so happy with matching at Self and sincerely can’t wait to spend the next three years here!

Words to live by:

Let Love Lead.
If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you.

Ryan McFarland, M.D.

Class of 2019

Hometown: Cambridge, Minnesota

Undergrad: Bethel University, Saint Paul Minnesota

Graduate School: University of Minnesota

Medical School: University of Minnesota Medical School

I grew up in Columbia, SC and attended Heathwood Hall, a small school on the Congaree River where both of my parents taught. I studied Biology as an undergraduate at Wofford College (we’ll sometimes show up in your NCAA bracket) up the road in Spartanburg, SC before returning to Columbia for medical school at USC where I found my calling for Family Medicine.

I love spending time with my incredible family. My older brother, Wills, is also a teacher and football coach in Atlanta, Ga. My dad, recently retired, is always up for adventure. He is an avid boater, so we enjoy getting outside to go camping, fishing, or just cruising. My mother teaches music and is the real boss of the family and a saint for putting up with us men. My lovely girlfriend Frances, whom I met in high school, is an environmental engineer in Columbia. She and I enjoy traveling together and spending time outside with my beloved dog “Jeb”. In addition to the outdoors, I enjoy photography, drawing, and painting- although I’m a novice at all three.

I chose Self Regional for so many of its great qualities. The mission of this program is to train the best family physicians in America, and it is clear to me that they do just that. The faculty is not only vast and experienced but is completely dedicated to Self and the residency program with an academic environment second to none. Greenwood is a wonderful small-town community, and the family at Self is full of the most welcoming people I’ve ever met. I knew that by choosing Self I will have the option to experience whatever I become interested in and am so happy to call Greenwood home!

Reid Castellone, M.D.

Class of 2018

Hometown: Charleston, SC

Undergrad: Boston College

Graduate School: East Carolina University

Medical School: University of South Carolina School of Medicine

Practice Location After Graduation: Palmetto Primary Care Physicians in Summerville, SC

PERSONAL NOTE

Hey Everyone! My name is Reid Castellone and I’m originally from Charleston, South Carolina. I received my undergraduate degree from Boston College where I majored in biology, following in my dad’s footsteps. Although I had always known I wanted to be a doctor, my application was not quite competitive for medical school when I graduated in 2008, so I next pursued a Master of Science in Biology from East Carolina University in Greenville, NC. Although my time at ECU was great for a medical school application, doing research, teaching, and taking classes, I quickly realized biomedical research was not for me, further cementing my desires to go to medical school. Fortunately, the University of South Carolina School of Medicine’s admission committee offered me a spot in their 2015 class in the winter of 2011, which brings me to writing this statement four years later!

The best thing of my time in medical school was meeting my fiancée, Chelsea. We got engaged the day after matching at Self when she clearly was not thinking right due to the excitement of match day. However, weeks have gone by and she still hasn’t rescinded her acceptance, so I guess she is stuck with me for the long hall…and I cannot wait to spend my life with her! We love watching Carolina and BC football games, playing with out dogs Max and Jasper, visiting our families in Charleston and Savannah, and traveling.

In terms of why I chose Greenwood, it all started over steaks and wine with Dr. Tiller and current residents David and Stefani in Kansas City. It was there I learned of the excellent, full spectrum training the residents receive in Greenwood, with the program’s goal being not to only produce the best residents in South Carolina, but in the country. My father, who is a family doctor in Summerville, SC where he practices traditional family medicine, had always served as my model for how I wanted to practice and treat my patients, and it seemed to me that the Self Family Medicine Residency would train me to do just this. Furthermore, Dr. Tiller and the entire Self community are genuinely great people, and they were amazing at helping my fiancée, who is a PA, find a job. It was the training and the people who truly cemented my desire to train at Self in Greenwood, and I was fortunate enough to match here.

Please feel free to contact me with any and all questions!

Leah Embree, M.D.

Class of 2018

Hometown: Blaine, Minnesota

Undergrad: Bethel University

Medical School: University of Minnesota Medical School

Practice Location After Graduation: Family Care Network in Birch Bay, Washington

PERSONAL NOTE

I grew up in the suburbs of Minneapolis, Minnesota as the oldest four and my siblings are some my best friends. Growing up, I developed a love for reading and still read as often as possible. I got into running (not fast, but for fun) in college and now enjoy running races whenever I can, especially “fun runs.” I also enjoy camping, hiking, and being outdoors. While in college I spent my summers working at a kids’ camp in central Minnesota which is where I met my husband, Jordan. He is the biggest blessing in my life and I am so grateful for him! We love spending time just doing life together as newlyweds.

Ultimately the Lord led us to Self and we knew right away it was His plan for us to be here as it was such a perfect fit. We chose Self Regional for the combination of the training and the community. No other place had such a great combination of the two. We were impressed with the academics and experience residents receive here and knew that was vital to our choice. Also, when we came to visit we loved the people; all the residents, faculty and staff as well as the small glimpse we got of the community of Greenwood. It already felt like home and we knew this was the best place for me to train to be a full spectrum family doctor.

Juliana Delgado, M.D.

Class of 2018

Hometown: San Jose, Costa Rica

Undergrad: Universidad de Iberoamerica, Costa Rica

Medical School: Universidad de Iberoamerica, Costa Rica

Practice Location After Graduation: Family Healthcare South Saluda at Self Regional Healthcare, Saluda, SC

PERSONAL NOTE

I was born and raised in the beautiful paradise of Costa Rica! I left home with the dream of validating my Costa Rican medical license here in the US, and I made it happen with the amazing help and invaluable support of my wonderful family and friends. I enjoy movies at home or at the theater, love the outdoors and my favorite thing to do is travel. I want to explore the whole world so you can imagine my bucket list is very, very, very long!

I come from a small farming community in northeast Georgia where we work hard and play hard. I love anything outside; hunting, fishing, hiking, climbing, and about any athletic sport there is. I’m particularly fond of rugby, which I played during medical school. My favorite pastime, though, is being a volunteer fireman. It’s a family tradition and I’ve been hanging out at the firehouse for as long as I can remember.

After college, I spent a couple years working at a church, school and clinic serving an unreached tribe in Africa. It was there that the Lord led me into medical school, which wasn’t in the original plan. I’m thankful for it though, because while in med school I met my wonderful wife, Lauren, who is also a resident at Self. Lauren and I have a desire to practice small town medicine and to serve overseas someday as missionary doctors.

Self was the last stop on our interview trail. We almost didn’t come, we were so worn out. Wow, would that have been a mistake. We felt like we were home from the minute we set foot in Greenwood. The faculty, staff, and residents were more than friendly. We immediately felt like we fit in. We left knowing there was nowhere else for us to be. We count it a blessing and are very thankful we get to train at Self Regional Healthcare.

Katie Hollins Lizarribar, M.D.

Class of 2018

Hometown: Columbia, South Carolina

Undergrad: Marymount Manhattan College

Medical School: American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine

Practice Location After Graduation: Palmetto Health USC, Columbia SC

PERSONAL NOTE

I am a native South Carolinian who, after spending roughly 10 years out of state attending college and medical school, found myself returning home in order to be closer to family, friends and my roots. I eventually would find my husband, who, ironically, attended my high school and we are now endeavoring on toward parenthood with extreme excitement and joy.

I selected the Self Regional residency program for its reputation for being exceptional to other prominent programs. Unlike many others, Self’s program is extremely comprehensive in terms of exposure to varying areas of care and this lack of limitation has certainly provided a far more well-rounded education and experience that will undoubtedly serve invaluable in my career as a physician.

In addition to this high caliber hands-on education, I very much value Self’s awareness of the need for work/life balance and its accommodations in meeting our life’s needs outside of work. The staff is caring, understanding and focused on molding each resident into the best physician he or she can be.

Class of 2017

Robert Brightharp, M.D.

Class of 2017

Hometown: Edgefield, South Carolina

Undergraduate: Clemson University

Medical School: Medical University of South Carolina

Practice Location After Graduation: Peachtree Medical Center, Edgefield, SC

PERSONAL NOTE

My name is Robert Rashad Brightharp. Everyone calls me Rashad. I grew up in Edgefield, SC. Edgefield is famous for two important reasons. First, it was the hometown of ten of South Carolina’s past Governors. Second, it was also the hometown of the late great Senator Strom Thurmond. Because of Edgefield’s rich history, you may ask why such a handsome, intelligent, and ambitious young man decided against a career in law and politics. The truth is science was always more interesting to me, and after years of hard work I find myself here as a resident in my third year of residency training at Self Regional Hospital.

I grew up in a small town in the Midwest and was raised loving everything outdoors. I enjoy hunting, fishing, running, skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, camping, and backpacking. Being outdoors is relaxing to me, so when I’m not working, you’ll most likely find me outside doing something.

My wife and I were married while I was still in medical school. She is a registered nurse, and we both have a passion for medical missions. We have worked in Haiti together on multiple trips, and are looking forward to where we will go in the future.

We chose Self Regional because we love the people here in Greenwood. We have such a strong community of friends who support us in our faith and medical skill set.

Josh Holmes, M.D.

Class of 2017

Hometown: Lexington, South Carolina

Undergrad: Clemson University

Medical School: Medical University of South Carolina

Practice Location After Graduation: Carolina Health Centers Uptown Family Practice and Bethany Center, in Greenwood, SC

PERSONAL NOTE

I’m a South Carolina native and love just about anything that happens outdoors! My wife Casey and I love to hike in the foothills near Greenville whenever we get a chance. We both enjoy running, cycling, and swimming as well. Oh, and I can’t forget to mention that I love to bake as many confections as I can when time permits. My wife is also a medical student, soon to graduate. We look forward to building a family and being able to practice medicine nearby!

My wife grew up in a small town about 15 minutes away from Greenwood called Ware Shoals, and we knew we loved the area and would enjoy being close to family. We are starting to build a family of our own and it’s great to have grandparents and aunts nearby! We are looking forward to the years God has for us here!

Lesley Jackson, M.D.

Class of 2017

Hometown: Lexington, Kentucky

Undergrad: College of Charleston

Medical School: University of Kentucky College of Medicine

Practice Location After Graduation: Claire Regional Medical Center in Morehead , KY

PERSONAL NOTE

I grew up moving all over the country and abroad with my father in the military. We settled down in my parents’ hometown of Lexington, Kentucky after my dad retired from the Army. I did my undergrad at the College of Charleston where I met my amazing husband, who is a South Carolina native. While I was in medical school, my husband went back to school and became a critical care nurse. We absolutely love both working in the medical field and being at the same hospital. I was fortunate to participate in the Rural Physicians Leadership Program with the University of Kentucky, placing me in eastern Kentucky at a regional hospital for my third and fourth clinical years. This is where I fell in love with full spectrum family medicine. I also love traveling and have participated in several medical missions in the states and abroad. We hope to continue this throughout our careers.

I’m originally from Seneca, SC. I went to a small Christian university in Indiana where I met my sweet bride, Elise. Together, we have two kiddos — a loveable smiley red headed boy and a sweet baby girl. In my time away from work, I love to camp, hike, and work in my yard (especially harvesting the best pecans in South Carolina). I also build furniture and have completed a kitchen renovation in our 1950s brick mill home. We love our church and doing ministry in our neighborhood. We are also passionate about international missions. Our family is on the trajectory to pursuing full time missions work post residency, and are excited to see where God leads us.

My husband, Brett, and I were not particularly interested in coming back to South Carolina for residency. We’d met in Nashville, TN in college, and then moved to the mountains of Eastern KY for med school. We loved the hiking and the gorgeous scenery of Appalachia. And, having been married a few years, we were eager to explore other parts of the country. We have hobbies that you can take anywhere: cooking, movies, video games (I’m unashamedly a video game fan), books (particularly theology…I particularly like Merton, Brett likes Augustine and Aquinas. We’re basically nerds.). Throw in a little outdoors for camping and hiking, and we’re pretty satisfied. So the location of South Carolina (despite me being from the state) wasn’t a huge pull when we started on the residency interview trail.

Self was my first interview, and I already had been impressed with the quality of the residents I’d met at a residency fair. When I left the interview day, I knew everywhere else I went would have to be measured against Self Regional. I loved the camaraderie and respect between the residents and faculty. The inpatient training is superb and their curriculum challenging. And I appreciated the interest the staff took in not only me as a candidate, but also my husband (who is non-medical). I wanted to be at a residency that would equip me to do practically anything after residency, and do it well. Self Regional clearly had that sort of program. After interviewing at several other stellar programs, it was clear that Self Regional was still where I wanted to train.

I’m in my second year now, and I couldn’t be happier with my place at this residency. Brett and I just had our first child and the support for me as a physician and now a mother has been great. Self Regional is the kind of residency that attracts faculty and residents that, of course, want to be exceptional physicians, but it also is a place where I’m encouraged to be a better person. That’s just as important to me. I wasn’t looking to come back to the Southeast for residency, but I’m thankful now that I stumbled across those Self Regional residents at a residency fair. I couldn’t be happier to be here.

Richard “Drew” Philipp, M.D.

Class of 2016

Hometown: Aiken, South Carolina

Undergrad: College of Charleston

Medical School: Medical University of South Carolina

PERSONAL NOTE

I grew up the oldest of two brothers in Aiken, SC. My father was a hospital pharmacist and my mother was an ICU nurse. My brother is a chemical engineer after graduating from Clemson University here in South Carolina. I always had a fascination with medicine, and my parents were always supportive of my education. All of that education paid off when it allowed me to meet my wife, Marie, who is an occupational therapist. We met while both of us were studying at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC. Outside of school I enjoy reading, particularly about the history of medicine and the history of the Church. I also love jogging with my two year old Chocolate Lab, Annie. Marie and I also have a 6 month old Boston Terrier, Lucy.

I knew that any program I chose needed to have outstanding faculty, a solid curriculum, and colleagues that I knew I would enjoy working with. I felt that as a regional hospital, Self offered access to a wide range of pathology without interference from other residents in specialty programs. I found all of those positive characteristics here at SRH after starting my internship. It was my month long rotation here as a fourth year medical student that let me know that SRH was not simply window dressing the program for interview season, but had a consistent tradition of bringing a diverse group of residents together as a family while teaching them to be leaders in family medicine throughout the country.

Christian Reinholz, M.D.

Class of 2016

Alicia Latham Schwark, M.D.

Class of 2016

Hometown: Powdersville, South Carolina

Undergrad: University of South Carolina

Medical School: Medical University of South Carolina

PERSONAL NOTE

I enjoy reading, painting, biking, and hiking with my husband Andy and dog Ellie. I chose Self because of its reputation for rigorous inpatient training and its affiliation with the world-renowned Greenwood Genetics Center as I plan to pursue a career in academic medicine in the fields of medical and cancer genetics.

Stefani Scott, M.D.

Class of 2016

Hometown: Midwest City, Oklahoma

Undergrad: University of Oklahoma

Medical School: University of Oklahoma College of Medicine

PERSONAL NOTE

I enjoy college football (Boomer Sooner!), baseball, and watching professional bull riding. I also have a wonderful Schnauzer named Heidi.

My future career plans are directed at working in a rural community with an emphasis on women’s health, gynecological procedures, serving a large pediatric population, and prenatal care. The Self Residency program not only provides exceptional training in these specific areas but also provides extensive training in inpatient medicine and moonlighting opportunities in emergency care. I truly believe our residency program will provide me with the necessary skill set to effectively cater to and treat patients in a rural community.

Laban Tsuma, M.D.

Class of 2016

Hometown: Mombasa, Kenya

Undergrad: University of Nairobi, College of Health Sciences

Medical School: University of Nairobi, College of Health Sciences

Post Graduate: University of Ireland, Dublin

PERSONAL NOTE

I grew up in Kenya wanting to serve the world. Becoming a public health physician opened several opportunities for world travel and this has been a great experience over the last ten years. To better serve in a primary care setting I felt the time was right to consolidate this public health platform by adding to it cutting edge clinical knowledge and practice. Getting into a strong family medicine residency program was the right step for me. I’m glad I did.

Self Regional is a great program. I’m thankful to great friends who introduced me to the program. It was love at first sight!

Justin Whitley, M.D.

Class of 2016

Hometown: Collierville, Tennessee

Undergrad: Delta State University

Medical School: University of Tennessee

PERSONAL NOTE

I enjoy hanging out with my wife, Lauren, and daughter. My interests are exercise, reading, and travel.

Class of 2015

Jonathan “Jon” Berbin, M.D.

I enjoy plenty of activities and I am made happy by sharing life with a beautiful family. My wife’s secret mission is to keep me balanced in all things. I play soccer, ultimate frisbee, and any other sport which involves heavy sweating. We are actively involved in living out our faith and have partnered with an amazing church body. I enjoy a movie or two post-call and will dabble in the arts of drawing from time to time. Our family loves the outdoors and my mission is to introduce my 2 year old little girl to as many creepy crawlers as possible before she thinks they are “yucky”. We are thankful for all that we have and blessed with our current circumstances. Our plan is to head back to Sierra Leone, West Africa and serve in the mission field within the next few years.

I thought that the program at Self offered a wide array of skill set development to allow me to become the best well rounded physician I could be. We knew that moving to the beautiful state of South Carolina would offer a taste of new culture and plenty of opportunity for exploration and new experiences.

Danielle Pagano-Baba, M.D.

Class of 2015

Hometown: Yorktown, New York

Undergrad: Stony Brook University

Medical School: American University of the Caribbean

I enjoy doing pretty much anything with my husband, Justin, and my daughter. I especially like going to local festivals and fairs! South Carolina is full of them!