Fellow Focus: Dr. Abdallah “Abe” Abdallah

Dr. Abdallah “Abe” Abdallah, PGY-4 fellow in Digestive Diseases, shares his path to medicine and about his love of hiking, Latin dancing, and UMMC.

Tell us about you.

I grew up in Jordan and I was always inspired by my father’s career as a neurologist and his personal ethics in how he has always put his patients at the center. Since then, it was my dream to become a doctor and the US has made this dream a reality.   

I began my medical training at Magnolia Regional Health Center in Corinth, but few years before, I was drawn to the healthcare field of general surgery and I joined USF for a training experience. However; in this journey I discovered that the specialty was not my calling and so I changed directions and found my purpose in internal medicine. My experience successfully led me to my career in medicine; specifically gastroenterology, at UMMC.

I’ve always been passionate about improving the lives of our patients and continuously developing my skills and working together with my colleagues towards common goals. 

Outside of my medical life, I’m an avid traveler and I love to explore and hike. On weekends, you might find me at the local gym or exploring hiking trails in the area.

When did you know you wanted to pursue digestive diseases?

Following general surgery, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to work at a gastroenterology clinic, it was a gripping experience for me and I found myself wanting to learn more. Meanwhile, my father was suffering from GI bleed related to gastric cancer and this was a turning point for me which fueled my passion in digestive diseases.

What do you like most about UMMC?

The thing I like most about UMMC is the people who work here. From faculty, staff, to our patients; they all are appreciative of our hard work, great medical care and facilities that UMMC provides. At UMMC I feel I’m at my second home, which is a rare commodity when it’s your workplace.

What advice would you give to the interns?

Do not let go of spending quality time with your patients. Find your personal purpose and connect with a mentor; this goes for any level in your career. Even when it gets hard; don’t stop progressing, taking the lessons learned and giving the best care to your patients.

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

Latin dancing; I was lucky to learn it when I was living in the Caribbean, and I guess it’s like swimming, once I got the basic steps, I just get into the flow.  

What is something you wish you knew more about?

Football. I love the teamwork to achieve the goal, but I would like to learn more about the teams, process, rules, and technicality of the game. This an open invite for anyone in my network, let’s grab a coffee and talk football. 

What are some small things that make your day better?

A good cup of coffee and a walk in nature.

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

I used to be called Mr. Karate kid in Jordan, a blackbelt and a champion. Do No Harm.