PGY-3
Rola Akache, DO
Hometown:Miami
Medical school:Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Carolinas Campus
I was born and raised in Miami, where I completed my undergraduate studies at Florida International University. I moved to South Carolina for my medical school training and am very excited to experience Georgia for the first time. I enjoy nature, hiking, being active, fitness, boxing, yoga, nutrition, cooking, traveling and dancing. I spend most of my free time traveling to visit my family and friends.
Kristina R. Fain, DO
Hometown:Fayetteville, GA
Medical school:Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine
I was born and raised in Fayetteville, which is not far from Atlanta. I attended the University of Georgia (Go, Dawgs!) where I majored in biological sciences before obtaining my medical degree from the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine. I plan to practice full-spectrum family medicine in an outpatient setting, and I look forward to serving a diverse population. I love spending my free time hiking with my pup Ranger and kicking around a soccer ball.
Luiza Grzych, MD
Hometown:Chicago
Medical school:Poznan University of Medicine Sciences, Poland
I was born in Poland, raised in Chicago and returned to Poland to complete my medical education. I feel fortunate to have this opportunity to start my residency in Savannah. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my boyfriend, family, friends, cooking, puzzles, bowling and hanging out with my dog, Charlie. I look forward to my journey in Savannah.
Rob Harbolovic, MD
Hometown:Georgetown, TX
Medical school:Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara Medical School
I'm originally from Central Texas and am proud to call Georgia home. In my spare time I enjoy going to the beach with the family, camping, kiteboarding, good music and trying new food spots in Savannah.
Caylie Brittsan, MD
Hometown:Ringgold, GA
Medical school:Mercer University School of Medicine, Savannah
I grew up in a small town just south of Chattanooga where most of my family still lives. I attended Mercer University in Macon for undergrad and here in Savannah for medical school. I enjoyed working with this program as a student and have loved the opportunity to learn and grow here as a resident. When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our pets, catching up with friends over a beer at Service Brewing, and exploring the beautiful city of Savannah.
Brett Prestia, DO
Hometown:Philadelphia, PA
Medical school:Campbell University
I'm from a town outside of Philadelphia (Go, Eagles!). I studied history at the College of William & Mary in Virginia. I continued my trek down south by attending medical school in North Carolina where I discovered my hobbies of running, visiting craft breweries and enjoying the best Southern cuisine around. What I love most about Savannah is that its people and history make it such a vibrant and uniquely wonderful place to live and work.
Talha Ramzan, DO
Hometown:Wichita Falls, TX
Medical school:Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
I was born in Pakistan but grew up in North Texas in the city of Wichita Falls. I got my bachelor's degree in biology and chemistry at Midwestern State University in my hometown and then went to graduate school in Fort Worth at UNT Health Science Center. After finishing grad school, I moved to Bradenton, Florida to attend medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. I'm happy to be living here in Savannah and to have the opportunity to train at Memorial Health's family medicine program. In my free time I enjoy traveling, exploring downtown Savannah, going to the beach and play tennis.
Lindsey Rish, MD
Hometown:Lexington, SC
Medical school:University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Greenville
I am a Southern girl, born and raised. I went to Presbyterian College for undergraduate where I majored in biology with minors in chemistry and business administration. I am married to my high-school sweetheart. We moved to Savannah to begin my career in medicine, and we couldn't have picked a better place to call home. Interestingly, I completed a year of OB/GYN residency before discovering my love for primary care and finding my way to the family medicine program. I enjoy spending time with my husband, baby boy and our fur-child/dog Forrest (named after Forrest Gump), cooking, crafting, DIY projects, cheering on our Clemson Tigers and just relaxing and exploring this beautiful city.
PGY-2
Nicole Oberfoell, MD
Hometown:Los Angeles, CA
Medical school:University of Queensland/Ochsner Clinical School
I was born/raised in Los Angeles where I did a lot of rollerblading and sitting on the public school bus. I moved to the east coast to attend Swarthmore College, lived in West Philadelphia, then moved to the Philippines on a Fulbright scholarship studying the use of telemedicine in geographically isolated, resource-limited communities. For medical school, I attended the University of Queensland in Australia and Ochsner in New Orleans, which was an enlightening juxtaposition of healthcare systems and medical cultures. I transferred from a residency program in Denver to seek additional enriching opportunities.
I am excited/humbled to be a Family Medicine physician, in this uniquely therapeutic role addressing community health issues, advocating for the underserved and working towards cross-generational change. Additional interests include women’s health, LGBTQ health, integrative medicine, global health, wilderness medicine, telemedicine and health disparities. For fun, I like to tinker/craft, ferment, bike, play soccer, collaborate and explore.
Khaja Kamal Mohiuddin, MD
Hometown:Upland, California
Medical school:American University of Integrative Sciences (AUIS), Sint Maarten
I am from a multicultural family and have always enjoyed being a hybrid. I was raised in Southern California, but enjoy the natural beauty, history, and quality people that are the fabric of Savannah. I chose this program after having the opportunity to complete a research year here. I observed the faculty to be knowledgeable, kind, and generous. The program director strives to provide his residents with every opportunity and makes them feel respected and loved.
In my free time I enjoy anything that has to do with food.
Ashley Blasi, DO
Hometown:Clarks Summit, PA
Medical school:Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine, NC
This is it! It is surreal to me that I am privileged enough to now be referred to as “my doctor” by my very own panel of patients! Memorial Health FM is a special place to be starting this journey as “my doctor.” This program truly cares about the community and gives back through unique programs and services unlike any I’ve seen before. It is an honor to be part of a program that has a culture of caring and innovation woven through every aspect.
In addition, I feel grateful to learn from such brilliant and kind physicians, and to be surrounded by supportive colleagues. All of this on top of living in this incredibly beautiful place, Savannah! I plan to practice full-spectrum family medicine as an outpatient doc.
In my free time, you can find me hanging with my pup Jaxon, kayaking, whipping up some new recipes, lounging on the beach, exploring my new city, or planning a new adventure! I am so excited for all of the experiences I will have over these next years in residency and to see how I will grow as a physician to best serve my current and future patients.
Zachary McGalliard, MD
Hometown:Warner Robins, GA
Medical school:Mercer University School of Medicine
I have known Georgia my whole life and I am overjoyed to serve as a physician here. I have a passion for women’s health and social justice as it pertains to medicine, specifically human trafficking. I follow Jesus and strive to share his love every day! I love spending time with my children, who are my eternal joy. My other interests include music, theology, food, cultural exploration, running, and smiling. Let’s have a conversation!
Sophia Elias, MD
Hometown:Marietta, GA
Medical school:Mercer University School of Medicine, Savannah, GA
Originally from Atlanta, I consider myself lucky to have attended Medical School and now to be starting Residency in the beautiful city of Savannah. On the weekends, I enjoy exploring the historic district, trying new restaurants, and spending a relaxing day at the beach. You may also find me at the dog park with my scruffy dog, Harmon.
Ashley Hawes, MD
Hometown:Snellville, GA
Medical school:Mercer University School of Medicine
I grew up in Snellville, GA, and was fortunate enough to attend the University of Georgia in Athens, GA for college. After college, I was lucky enough to be accepted into medical school at Mercer University School of Medicine and residency in the lovely town of Savannah, GA. During my free time, you can find me spending time with my husband, Evan, and our dog, Solo.
PGY-1
Alexis Brown, DO
Hometown:Baton Rouge, LA
Medical school:Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, GA
I am a native Louisianimal, who is thrilled to be in the southeast for residency. I studied nutritional science and biology at LSU and continued my path towards holistic medical training at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine-Georgia. My career goals are to become a well-rounded physician, who focuses on women’s health, preventive medicine, and addressing the root cause of chronic disease states. When I’m not working, I am hanging with my hot fiancé Josh, preparing whole food meals, playing outside, doing yoga, or loafing on the couch. I look forward to eating and paddling my way through Savannah, GA these next three years.
Megan Dannemiller, MD
Hometown:Columbus, GA
Medical school:Mercer University, GA
Though an Army Brat by birth, I claim Columbus, Georgia as home. I attended the University of Georgia for my undergraduate education, and Mercer University for medical school. I'm married to my best friend, and have been blessed with two sweet kids. I believe one of the keys to happiness is serving others, and that is why I chose medicine. I enjoy running, baking, gardening, trivia, and UGA football.
Victoria Mazzella, MD, MPH
Hometown:Southwest FL
Medical school:University of Medicine and Health Sciences, NY
I was born and raised in Southwest Florida and completed my undergraduate degree at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. I went on to complete medical school at the University of Medicine and Health Sciences in St. Kitts and a Master's in Public Health from Walden University. After graduating medical school I worked for a contract research organization where I recruited for and oversaw research studies in pharmaceuticals. I’m grateful and excited to be a part of the Family Medicine team!
Max Needham, MD
Hometown:San Diego, CA
Medical school:USF Morsani College of Medicine
Originally from San Diego, I’ve lived in St. Louis, Tampa, Allentown, Austin, and Irvine over the last few years, and am thrilled to call beautiful Savannah my new home. My medical interests include emergency medicine and palliative care. In my spare time I play basketball and baseball, work on my garden, paint with oils and watercolors, and cook new kinds of carbs.
Logan Proffitt, DO
Hometown:Louisville, KY
Medical school:Lincoln Memorial University Debusk College of Osteopathic medicine
My medical interests are in wilderness medicine and sports medicine. I’m passionate about preventative care. With my free time you can find me paddle boarding in the marshes, fishing, or trying a new hot sauce.
Catherine Waldron, MD
Hometown:St. Simons Island, GA
Medical school:Mercer University School of Medicine, GA
I grew up in St. Simons and completed my BS degree in Genetics at the University of Georgia (Go Dawgs!!). I had the privilege to attend medical school here in Savannah and I have considered it my new home ever since. I am passionate about public health, women’s health, and addressing health disparities. I aspire to be the best advocate for my patients and my Savannah community. In my free time, you can find me exploring new restaurants, running around Daffin, or playing a team sport (soccer or kickball) with SARC.