Fellow Focus: Dr. Paige Ganem

PGY-IV fellow Dr. Paige Ganem shares about her love of adventure, gardening, and her inspiration to pursue a fellowship in hematology and oncology.

First, tell us about you.

I grew up in North Carolina and graduated from UNC- Chapel Hill (go Tarheels)! I moved here after residency in Greenville, South Carolina. I have been married for almost 3 years and my husband Mark is amazingly supportive, he also doubles as my personal chef when he’s not managing my money with his day job in finance.  I love doing anything outdoors and my three fur babies at home. I have a habit of stress baking and have watched The Office more times than I care to admit. 

When did you know you wanted to pursue hematology/oncology? 

I knew that I wanted to do hematology/oncology in college after a friend of mine was diagnosed with leukemia. I actually wrote my personal statement for medical school about him. It was a very pivotal point in my life.

What do you like most about UMMC?

The people that I get to work with are absolutely amazing. From my co-fellows to our staff and nurses, this has been one of the most welcoming places I have ever worked. 

What advice would you give to the interns?

My big residency passion was wellness. You have to find a way to incorporate time in your schedule for something that has nothing to do with work. Start intern year, and do not think that taking care of yourself is any less important than taking care of your patients. 

What could you give a 40 minute presentation on without preparation?

Indoor houseplants and vegetable gardening. I somehow developed quite the green thumb in residency. I love to keep a garden of herbs and vegetables but my big passion is collecting exotic tropical plants. I have more than 60 in my house, and they love this Mississippi humidity!

What is something you wish you knew more about?

I have always wished I could play an instrument. My dad was in a band and is the best guitar player I know. He can listen to a song and play it back. I tried to learn piano, violin and guitar but maybe one day I will magically be able to learn next time I try.

What are some small things that make your day better?

Sitting on my screened porch with a good book and a glass of wine, snuggles with my cats, and our hilarious fellows group text. 

Tell us something about you that most people don’t know.

I did an exchange program in Ecuador in high school!