Michelle Venus
The George Washington University (GW) Cancer Center has appointed Serena Mao, MD, PhD, as a radiation oncologist specializing in thoracic and gastrointestinal cancers.
When cancer enters someone’s life, grief often comes with it. It is not only the patient who feels it, but also their loved ones, including children, and even the medical staff who walk beside them. Grief in this setting is layered and deeply personal, taking many forms that are not always tied to…
Daniel Chen is always moving forward. His life has been a series of moves, both geographic and professional, that have brought new challenges and fresh perspectives wherever he finds himself. Born and raised in Taiwan in a family steeped in medicine, he grew up surrounded by conversations about…
Glioblastoma is the most aggressive primary brain cancer in adults. Even with treatment, just over 6 percent of patients survive five years or more. But there's good news: GW Cancer Center researchers are bringing hope for more precise, less invasive, and more effective treatments.
Sara Richman found her calling early, volunteering on a crisis hotline as a teen. Now an oncology social worker, she’s still driven by the same instinct: to connect, to listen, and to help. When she’s not supporting patients, you’ll probably find her at a concert. She’s been hooked on live music…
Inhee Chung is a scientist driven by deep curiosity, a love of problem-solving, and a desire to make a meaningful impact on human health. From her early fascination with math, music, and art to her groundbreaking research in physical chemistry and cancer biology, Inhee has followed the questions…
Adam Friedman, MD, is not your typical dermatologist. A self-described Renaissance mind, he thrives on intellectual curiosity, clinical complexity, and the ever-changing landscape of modern medicine. Here, he shares how a winding career path, early morning workouts, off-label drug ingenuity, and a…
Hannah Safron’s journey to Washington, DC was shaped by a strong sense of service, curiosity, and commitment to community health. From her roots in suburban Chicago to her current work as a Community Health Associate at the GW Cancer Prevention and Wellness Center, Hannah is fueled by a passion for…
Joslyn Trovati’s journey into oncology social work wasn’t a straight line—but it was a deeply intentional one. Raised in northern New Jersey, Joslyn always knew she wanted to help others. Initially drawn to psychology, she realized she was meant for a more dynamic, community-centered role. That…
Radiation therapist Badjo Kouadio won the lottery — a few times. The first time was when she entered the Diversity Visa lottery (also known as the Green Card lottery) and came to the United States. The second time was when she became a radiation technologist and began a defining career that…