Current Residents

Our Residents

First Year Residents 
Name: Ibraheem Azhar, MD
Hometown: Dallas, TX
Medical School: UTMB
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I can dunk a basketball.
What spoke to you about our program to make you rank it: This program offers a great environment to learn in and develop from a clinical and academic standpoint.
Your favorite thing about Longview so far: The scenic parks/lakes I have visited.
Name: Joel Jacob, DO
Hometown: Houston, TX
Medical School: Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine
What spoke to you about our program to make you rank it?: I was looking for a program with strong clinical training and a supportive learning environment. Since starting residency, I’ve really appreciated the mentorship and guidance from the upper-level residents. Everyone has been approachable and willing to teach, answer questions, and offer guidance, which has made the transition into residency much smoother.
Your favorite thing about Longview so far: The people. Everyone I’ve met has been incredibly kind and welcoming, and I’ve also enjoyed checking out some of the local coffee shops around town.
Name: Brian Le, DO
Hometown: Arlington, Texas
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I am a big fishing nerd. I love everything about the sport. I can talk for hours about it.
What spoke to you about our program to make you rank it? What stood out to me the most was the strong resident-focused environment and the culture of mentorship.
Your favorite thing about Longview so far. I love that the community is tight-knit and supportive. The farmers market on Saturdays is great.
Name: Hanna Lee, DO
Hometown: Dallas, TX
Medical School: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me:I was an orchestra kid and had the opportunity to perform at different concert halls, including the Meyerson Symphony Center!
What spoke to you about our program to make you rank it: I was impressed by this program’s friendly and welcoming energy. From day one, I felt like it was a supportive environment where I would be able to learn from faculty and fellow residents to grow as a physician.
Your favorite thing about Longview so far: So far, I have enjoyed exploring the downtown area. It has been fun grabbing coffee or dessert with my co-residents after a long shift and getting to know the city together.
Name: Helen Nguyen, DO
Hometown: Carrollton, TX
Medical School: Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I’m on a lifelong mission to eat an oyster from everywhere I travel to (that has an ocean, of course).
What stands out about training at the CHRISTUS program? My co-residents! They're awesome to work with and even better to hang out with. They are supportive, fun, and seriously make every day better.
Something fun to do in Longview? I love ice cream, and the salty watermelon sorbet at Wild Honey is delicious.
Name: Pranayi Pala, DO
Hometown: Dallas, TX
Medical School: UNT Health Fort Worth - Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I am a huge foodie, so I love trying new restaurants and cooking new recipes. I also love listening to music, attending concerts, and going dancing. I enjoy playing board games and reading fantasy novels, and I am trying to grow my personal collection!
What spoke to you about our program to make you rank it? What really stood out to me about this program was the camaraderie amongst residents, faculty, and GME staff. Every person I met was genuinely kind-hearted, welcoming, and invested in our success, which spoke volumes about the culture of the program. I was also drawn to the program's strong emphasis on outreach and volunteering in the community, which is something I am very passionate about and hope to continue into my career beyond.
Your favorite thing about Longview so far: One of my favorite things about Longview so far has been discovering its food scene and how much culture is woven into it. I’ve really enjoyed visiting the farmer’s market, grabbing a bite to eat with my co-residents, or studying at the local coffee shops!
Name: Kalim Parshot, DO
Hometown: Hurst, TX
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I played soccer for 10 years.
What stands out about training at the CHRISTUS program? The willingness of staff and other residents to answer questions and provide support when needed.
Your favorite thing about Longview so far: Going to get some ice cream at Wild Honey!
Name: Farzan Poonawala, MD
Hometown: Spring, Texas
Medical School: Texas A&M University Naresh K. Vashisht College of Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I've traveled to over 30 countries around the world! I love experiencing new cultures, cuisines, and perspectives through travel.
What spoke to you about our program and made you rank it? The culture of camaraderie, shared success, and genuine support from both the faculty and administration stood out to me. It was clear that everyone is invested in helping residents succeed and is continually striving to make the program the best it can be.
Your favorite thing about Longview so far: The friendly community and how convenient everything is.
Name: Aiyan Rahman, DO
Hometown: Pinole, CA
Medical School: Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I enjoy running, pickleball, and movie nights with friends.
What spoke to you about our program to make you rank it: The supportive culture and mentorship among the residents and attendings made CHRISTUS stand out to me. I knew after interview day that this was a place I could learn, grow, and feel supported throughout residency.
Your favorite thing about Longview so far: My favorite thing about Longview has been how friendly everyone is and their genuine willingness to get to know you. It's made settling in a new city easier.
Name: Tyler Simonek, DO
Hometown: Waco, TX
Medical School: Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I'm happiest with my wife at my side.
What spoke to you about our program to make you rank it? As a Catholic, I was drawn to CHRISTUS Good Shepherd's mission of extending the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. I wanted to train in a program where excellent clinical education is paired with compassionate, faith-driven patient care and a strong sense of community.
Your favorite thing about Longview so far: I love getting to see the East Texas pines throughout the city.
Name:Krishna Thirumalai, DO
Hometown: Dallas, TX
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I played saxophone in high school and was interested in pursuing jazz studies.
What spoke to you about our program to make you rank it? Wanted to work in an underserved area and serve patients with complex medical problems, and work in an environment where faculty and co-residents support each other.
Your favorite thing about Longview so far: Beautiful backroads and walking trails, and Silver Grizzly.
Name: Jennifer Vo, MD
Hometown: Sugar Land, TX
Medical School: McGovern Medical School
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: My favorite genre of music is showtunes, whether that be musicals from Broadway or Disney.
What spoke to you about our program to make you rank it? The people! I love my cohort, and the culture here is wonderful.
Your favorite thing about Longview so far: Travel from one end of the city to the other in less than 20 minutes.
Name: Che’La Woods, MD
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Medical School: Chicago Medical School
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I love pushing my limits in the gym, cooking, and spending time with my daughter.
What spoke to you about our program to make you rank it? Honestly, it was the people. After my interview and meeting the residents, I could really see myself here. Everyone was welcoming and made me feel like this was the right fit.
Your favorite thing about Longview so far: The homemade ice cream shops!

Second Year Residents 
Name: Andreina Ahrens, DO
Hometown: Houston, TX
Medical School: Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I love traveling and especially enjoy exploring the outdoors. Recently, I’ve been drawn to the Pacific Northwest, checking off Oregon’s Seven Wonders and taking a solo trip through Washington to explore Olympic and Mount Rainier National Parks.
Why I love my residency in Longview: The warmth and kindness our patients exude, even while going through some of their toughest days, is incredibly inspiring. Their resilience motivates me not only to be the best doctor I can be for them, but also to grow into a better version of myself. I love the East Texas region for its lush forests and beautiful lakes, and I’m especially looking forward to experiencing the fall foliage this year. This residency program also provides immense support to its trainees. From our co-residents to faculty and staff, it truly is a well-coordinated and empowering program, one that continuously encourages us to push beyond what we thought was possible.
Name: Charles Anugwom, MD
Hometown: Houston, TX
Medical School: Tilman J Fertitta Family College of Medicine - University of Houston
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I enjoy playing basketball, watching movies and being active outdoors.
Why I love my residency in Longview: What I love most is the supportive and learning environment. The faculty and residents are genuinely kind, approachable, and always willing to help. It truly feels like being part of a close-knit family. The program places a strong emphasis on both learning and wellness, which has created an ideal environment for my personal and professional growth.
Name: Matthew Cha, MD
Hometown: Dallas, TX
Medical School: University of Texas Southwestern Medical School
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I have an Australian Shepherd named Meatball!
Why I love my residency in Longview: I enjoy the trails and dog parks to hang out with my dog and lack of traffic! The culture of the residency has been very supportive but also challenges me to become the best doctor I can.
Name: Patrick Connell, DO
Hometown: Houston, TX
Medical School: Kansas City University of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me:I enjoy powerlifting/bodybuilding, listening to EDM, binging random horror/thriller movies, and playing basketball. I've also played piano for over 15 years and hope to get back into it after residency!
Why I love my residency in Longview: From day one, I've felt incredibly supported and have been very impressed by the friendliness in Longview. When I was applying for residency, I heard excellent things about the learning opportunities in this program, Dr. Egbe's advocacy for all the residents, and the positive culture here. Now as a resident, I'm glad to be here - it's a safe learning space full of kind-hearted people!
Name: Katie Johnson, DO
Hometown: Austin, TX
Medical School: University of Incarnate Word School of Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I grew up performing in choirs and musical theater productions. I performed with my high school choir at Carnegie Hall - twice! Now, I enjoy walking my 15-year-old Maltipoo, Benny, attending live music performances, perusing art museums, and dominating trivia nights.
Why I love my residency in Longview: Everyone in the program has a kind heart and a patience that I have found invaluable in the transition to residency. With so many people willing to share their strengths, there has been a rich learning environment filled with support.
Name: Breanna Jones, MD
Hometown: Dallas, TX
Medical School: UT Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I’ve trained in several genres of dance, including ballet, pointe, jazz, hip-hop, and majorette. I also enjoy scrapbooking, crocheting, or working on any DIY project.
Why I love my residency in Longview: I enjoy the tight-knit, friendly community in Longview. The supportive, nurturing environment our program has cultivated also encourages my growth as a physician!
Name: Praneeth Kambhampati, MD
Hometown: Houston, TX
Medical School: Baylor College of Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I enjoy playing volleyball and was part of the University of Houston Men's Volleyball team in undergrad.
Why I love my residency in Longview: Everyone - from faculty and administration to residents - fosters a supportive, inclusive culture that truly feels like home.
Sanum Khan, DOName: Sanum Khan, DO
Hometown: San Antonio, TX
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I enjoy watching Korean dramas for their charming storylines.
Why I love my residency in Longview: I have felt very supported by the upper residents, attendings, and GME office. Everyone genuinely wants you to succeed. On top of that, the people of Longview have been incredibly kind and welcoming—it’s a great place to grow both personally and professionally.
Name: Thulasi Kulasinghe, DO
Hometown: Rockville, MD
Medical School: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I enjoy hiking and collecting different types of water bottles.
Why I love my residency in Longview: I chose this residency because I wanted a program that truly values teaching—and from day one, I felt that commitment. The learning environment is both supportive and challenging, and I’ve especially appreciated the guidance from our upper-level residents and the genuine support from our program director. It’s a place where I feel encouraged to grow every day.
Name: Brian Le, DO
Hometown: Houston, TX
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I love to travel, can solve a Rubik's cube in 70 secs, and enjoy working out and following my Houston sports teams.
Why I love my residency in Longview: My co-interns, upper-level residents, and attendings all contribute to a supportive learning environment. Everyone I have met in this program is willing to lend a helping hand and has helped to make my transition from medical school to residency more seamless.
Name: Saif Quadri, DO
Hometown: Katy, TX
Medical School: Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I like calisthenics, but I also like ice cream.
Why I love my residency in Longview: I value my residency at Longview for its meaningful blend of rigorous training and authentic community. Our faculty are deeply invested in our growth and guide us without overshadowing by offering support that empowers independence. My fellow residents created an environment where we truly lift each other up. Most importantly, our patients invite us into their lives with profound trust, reinforcing daily why we chose this profession.
Luis Santiago, DOName: Captain Luis Santiago, DO
Hometown: Born and raised in Puerto Rico; then, Philadelphia, PA
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I am a member of the U.S. Army with a strong passion for sports, especially baseball as well as fitness, motorcycles, and cars. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, and with my German Shepherd, Shelby. I'm also a film and music enthusiast.
Why I love my residency in Longview: The atmosphere in Longview truly feels like home. The community is warm, welcoming, and eager to help you feel like part of the family. The program leaders, attendings, co-residents, and staff are deeply committed to helping us grow, not only as physicians, but also as leaders and compassionate individuals. The dedication to teaching is outstanding, highlighted by engaging morning reports led by Dr. Egbe. Also, Dr. McDonald’s emphasis on striving for excellence both medically and in upholding the values of dignity and integrity. I feel well supported in this program, with ample resources readily available. This is especially evident in the upper-level residents, who are always present to guide and mentor us through each step of the journey. I am proud and grateful to be a part of the CHRISTUS/Texas A&M family.
Name: Jasmine Thomas, DO
Hometown: Lufkin, TX
Medical School: Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I’ve learned and performed Indian Classical Dance since I was about 8 years old.
Why I love my residency in Longview: As a medical student who rotated with the residency program in Longview, I’ve appreciated the supportive learning environment. I enjoyed interacting with everyone in this program and learned from many people. I am grateful to stay in East Texas for my residency while working with everyone again as a resident. I know this program will help me become the best physician I can be.

Third Year Residents 
Name: Zuhair Afsar, DO
Hometown: Dallas, TX
Medical School: Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I enjoy hiking and spending time outdoors.
Why I love my residency in Longview: I love the sense of community in the program.
Name: Adwoa Agyei, DO
Hometown: Gainesville, FL
Medical School: Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I was born in Adelaide, Australia.
Why I love my residency in Longview: I have been enjoying finding new places to eat and hang out with my co-residents in Longview. I really like how most places are close by.
Name: Jonathan Derouen, MD
Hometown: Fort Worth, TX
Medical School: Oklahoma College of Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I enjoy playing board games and soccer as well as dabbling with the piano from time to time.
Why I love my residency in Longview: The beauty in nature is quite serene and the traffic is nonexistent. Everyone here is very friendly and warm. Food here is also a plus.
Name: Sindhuja Gade, DO
Hometown: Houston, TX
Medical School: Kansas City University of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I enjoy running and playing tennis. My friend and I are trying to run a race in all 50 states!
Why I love my residency in Longview: The faculty are really kind and willing to teach. I’m also enjoying my co-residents and the camaraderie we have.
Name: Priya Kandru, DO
Hometown: Frisco, TX
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I like cooking and spending time outdoors.
Why I love my residency in Longview: I love meeting new people and learning every day!
Name: Suganya Arunachalam Karikalan, MD
Hometown: Chennai, India
Medical School: Karpaga Vinayaga Institute of Medical Sciences
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I’m a big Taylor Swift fan! I enjoy chatting over a cup of coffee.
Why I love my residency in Longview: Longview is a quiet little town with its own charm.
Name: Tagbo “Charles” Nduka, MD
Hometown: Houston, TX
Medical School: Kharkiv National Medical University
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I am a huge fan of soccer and basketball.
Why I love my residency in Longview: Everyone in the program is supportive, from the residents to the Chief Residents, who have gone above and beyond to ensure we have a smooth transition. The GME team is incredible, and the program director, Dr. Egbe, is passionate about teaching, which makes learning enjoyable. Longview is an amazing place with nice restaurants and exposure to a wide variety of cases. I love it here.
Name: Kelly Okpagu, MD
Hometown: Dallas, TX
Medical School: St. Matthews University School of Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I do standup comedy, enjoy working out and kickboxing. I am really good at fighting games.
Why I love my residency in Longview: The love and togetherness. I feel like we are one big family. Everyone is down to earth and also accommodating.
Name: Daniel Park, DO
Hometown: Dallas, TX
Medical School: University of North Texas Health – Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I like listening to jazz, playing the guitar and I collect pens for a hobby. I also have an elderly plant that I have been taking care of for 8 years.
Why I love my residency in Longview: What I appreciate about training in Longview is the supportive atmosphere. Everyone, from attendings to staff and faculty, is genuinely helpful and eager to support each other.
Name: Indarani Phillip, DO
Hometown: San Antonio, TX
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I’ve written a fantasy novel!
Why I love my residency in Longview: The kindness, the wellness committee and last but not least my lovely family here with me in Longview! The program here is full of genuinely patient and kind people that want to help you be a great doctor with plenty of opportunities. Residency is hard but you aren’t alone here!
Name: Yasemin Polat, DO
Hometown: Sachse, TX
Medical School: William Carey University of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I played soccer in high school. Currently Zumba and swimming are my favorite activities. My goal is to work with breast cancer patients in the future.
Why I love my residency in Longview: When selecting a residency program, I looked for where I would be a good fit. CHRISTUS Health seemed like a program that would allow me to comfortably collaborate with my colleagues and so far, it has lived up to my expectations. I believe the best physicians are those that are a quarterback for the patients’ needs. I truly enjoy the challenges of helping those who need it the most. Serving the underserved is a great honor and privilege. I am looking forward to helping my patients in residency and beyond.
Name: Tanya Srivastava, MD
Hometown:Lucknow, India
Medical School: Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I was born in Varanasi, India, one of the oldest living cities in the world. Also, I like painting, photography, long nature walks, sunsets, traveling, music and dogs!
Why I love my residency in Longview: The community, lush greenery and calm vibes of Longview brought me here. Additionally, the teaching methods at Christus align with my learning goals. There are numerous opportunities for community outreach which I am particularly inclined toward. The faculty is supportive and approachable, and the camaraderie among everyone makes it a great workplace. P.S. East Texas is beautiful during Fall :)
Name: Rudy Tijerina, DO
Hometown: Houston, TX
Medical School: University of North Texas Health – Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun or Interesting Fact About Me: I enjoy cooking, hiking, and most sports. I always thought I’d be the next Shaun White or Michael Phelps, but I guess medicine is cool too!
Why I love my residency in Longview: I admire the group of residents in my class; we’re amazing. Also, the program prioritizes wellness and education.