We're excited to welcome our fourth class of Internal Medicine residents
to Mary Washington Healthcare! Look for all our IM residents around the
hospital and at our
clinic at 1201 Sam Perry Blvd., Suite 201, Fredericksburg.
Nitasha Abbas, DO Hometown: Woodbridge, Virginia
Education: Lincoln Memorial University - DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Alex Blankinship, DO Hometown: McLean, Virginia
Education: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
Lauren Davidson, MD Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland
Education: George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
Michael Farahi-Marney, DO, MS Hometown: Northern Virginia
Education: Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine
Haris Iqbal, MD Hometown: Khushab, Pakistan
Education: King Edward Medical University
Merly Konathapally, MD, MPH Hometown: born in Baltimore and raised in Virginia Beach
Education: Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine
Jote Limeneh, MD Hometown: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Education: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Ihsan Lodin, MD Hometown: born in Afghanistan and raised in Virginia
Education: St. George's University School of Medicine
Ossama Naveed, MD Hometown: born in Pakistan and raised in Northern Virginia
Education: Ross University School of Medicine
Saba Oniani, MD Hometown: Tbilisi, Georgia
Education: David Tvildiani Medical University AIETI Medical School
Daniel Oteng, MD Hometown: Ghana
Education: Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology School of Medical Sciences
Venu M. Peddibhotla, DO Hometown: Ellicott City, Maryland
Education: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
Suhaa Rashid, MD Hometown: born in New York and grew up in Northern Virginia
Education: Ross University School of Medicine
Matthew Rice, MD Hometown: Edina, Minnesota
Education: Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Lema Seboka Degefa, MD Hometown: Ethiopia
Education: Mekelle University College of Health Sciences
Riley Ward, MD Hometown: born in Logan, Utah, and moved with his military family to Newport, Rhode
Island, and Pearl City, Hawaii, before settling in Chesapeake, Virginia
Education: San Juan Bautista School of Medicine
Umang Makhijani, MD, was born in Mumbai, India, and completed a BS in human
health sciences at University of Virginia in Charlottesville, VA. Dr.
Makhijani earned his medical degree from the American University of Antigua,
in St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda.
In his free time, he likes to play baseball and basketball, dance, cook,
listen to music and stay up to date with the news.
Class of 2027
Rehab Abdin, MD
Rehab Abdin, MD, born in Kuwait and of Egyptian descent, earned her MBBS
degree from Cairo University Medical School in Cairo, Egypt, a distinguished
institution known for its medical excellence.
During her leisure hours, Dr. Abdin finds joy in the companionship of her
husband and three children, relishing cherished moments spent together.
She embraces a passion for exploration through travel, savoring culinary
experiences, and participating in Pure Barre classes, pursuits that enrich
her life with cultural immersion, gastronomic delights, and physical well-being.
Vishal Akula, DO
Vishal Akula, DO, originally from India, transitioned to the United States
during his formative years, settling in Minnesota before eventually relocating
to Northern Virginia with his family. He pursued his undergraduate education
at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, where he earned
a BS in biology with a minor in business and honors. His journey continued
with the achievement of his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from
the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Blacksburg, VA.
In his leisure time, Dr. Akula immerses himself in a variety of sports,
including football, basketball, soccer, and tennis, passionately supporting
teams such as the Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Timberwolves. Beyond
sports, he delights in socializing with friends and exploring novel travel
destinations, activities that enrich his appreciation for both community
and global experiences.
Seth Conley, DO
Seth Conley, DO, a native of Bethlehem, PA, earned his BS in biology from
West Virginia University Institute of Technology in Beckley, WV. He proceeded
to obtain his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from the West Virginia
School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg, WV.
During his leisure hours, Dr. Conley finds solace in the natural world,
often venturing outdoors with his beloved companion, Annie, to immerse
himself in the tranquility of nature.
Anjali Davichan, MD
Anjali Davichan, MD, originally hailing from Kerala, India, completed her
medical education at the Government Medical College in Thrissur, India.
During her leisure hours, Dr. Davichan finds delight in relaxing with Netflix,
experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, and exploring various destinations
through travel. She shares a passion for cricket and soccer with her husband,
fostering their shared enjoyment of sports. Together, they revel in immersing
themselves in diverse cultures, delving into the rich tapestry of history
and architecture that each place offers, and savoring the culinary delights
of different cuisines.
Kasra Emami, MD, MPH
Kasra Emami, MD, a native of Northern Virginia, completed his undergraduate
studies in biology at George Mason University in Fairfax, VA. He went
on to earn an MPH from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA, before obtaining
his Doctor of Medicine from St. George's University School of Medicine
in St. George's, Grenada.
In his leisure hours, Dr. Emami enjoys savoring and preparing Persian and
Italian cuisine, hiking, and indulging in binge-watching sessions of The Office.
Sonia Goyal, MD
Sonia Goyal, MD, hails from Faridabad, India, where she pursued her undergraduate
studies in biology at Delhi Public School. She went on to achieve her
Doctor of Medicine from Kasturba Medical College in Manipal, India.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Dr. Goyal cherishes spending quality
time with her family, finding relaxation in watching movies, and expressing
her culinary creativity through cooking.
Aamna Iftikhar, MD
Aamna Iftikhar, MD, originally from Pakistan, pursued her undergraduate
studies at the University of the Punjab in Lahore. She furthered her education
by completing her Doctor of Medicine at Shalamar Medical & Dental
College, also located in Lahore, Pakistan.
During her leisure hours, Dr. Iftikhar finds solace in the rhythmic melodies
of music, engaging in outdoor activities that reconnect her with nature,
and cherishing moments spent with her family. Additionally, she delights
in the culinary arts, finding joy and fulfillment in creating dishes that
bring people together around the table. These activities not only enrich
her personal life but also reflect her appreciation for creativity, connection,
and a balanced lifestyle.
Hae Seong Kim, DO
Hae Seong Kim, DO, originally from Korea, pursued a dual BS degree in biomedical
engineering from Columbia University in New York, NY, and in chemistry
from William and Mary in Williamsburg, VA, through a joint degree program.
He subsequently earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the Edward
Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Blacksburg, VA.
During his leisure hours, Dr. Kim finds pleasure in exploring new travel
destinations and sampling diverse cuisines.
Mariam Lobjanidze, MD
Mariam Lobjanidze, MD, originally from Tbilisi, Georgia, completed her
Doctor of Medicine degree at David Tvildiani Medical University, a prestigious
institution in her hometown.
Outside of her medical pursuits, Dr. Lobjanidze finds fulfillment in exploring
diverse destinations through travel, expressing herself through singing,
and cherishing moments spent with loved ones. These activities not only
provide her with relaxation but also enrich her life with cultural experiences
and meaningful connections.
Abhi Loganathan, DO
Abhi Loganathan, DO, originates from Blacksburg, VA, where she completed
her undergraduate studies in biological sciences at Virginia Polytechnic
Institute and State University. She later earned her Doctor of Osteopathic
Medicine from Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic
Medicine in Harrogate, TN.
In her free time, Dr. Loganathan relishes quality moments with her husband,
whether it's exploring downtown restaurants or traversing local trails.
They share a passion for culinary adventures, recently mastering their
rendition of a delectable Bolognese dish together.
Mehak Misha, MD
Mehak Misha, MD, born in India, embarked on a rigorous academic journey
at Khalsa College in Amritsar, where she studied physics, chemistry, and
biology. Her passion for medicine led her to Kasturba Medical College
in Manipal, where she earned her Doctor of Medicine degree.
In her free time, Dr. Misha cherishes moments with her family, enjoys traveling,
and goes on bike rides with her husband. She is also dedicated to community
service, volunteering her time to make a positive impact.
Anthony Rivas, DO
Anthony Rivas, DO, was born in Lawrenceville, VA, and completed his undergraduate
studies in biology at Hampden-Sydney College in Hampden Sydney, VA. He
subsequently earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Lincoln Memorial
University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine in Harrogate, TN.
During his leisure moments, Dr. Rivas finds solace in fishing and engages
in friendly games of basketball.
Zehra Shahab, DO, MPH
Zehra Shahab, DO, earned her undergraduate degree in Biology at the University
of Virginia in Charlottesville, VA. She pursued further education with
a Master of Public Health from George Washington University in Washington,
DC, before earning her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Liberty University
College of Osteopathic Medicine in Lynchburg, VA.
In her spare time, Dr. Shahab enjoys spending time with her family, traveling
to sunny locales, and indulging in her passion for Disney.
Edward Tubberville, DO
Edward Tubberville, DO, was born in Okinawa, Japan, and pursued his undergraduate
studies at Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA, where he graduated with
a BS in biomedical sciences and a minor in chemistry. He obtained his
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the Campbell University School of
Osteopathic Medicine in Lillington, NC.
In his free time, Dr. Tubberville enjoys playing guitar and bass, riding
motorcycles with his wife, and studying Japanese.
Nivetha Vijayakumar, MD
Nivetha Vijayakumar, MD, was born in India and completed her undergraduate
studies at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, earning a BA in neuroscience
with a minor in Latin. She subsequently earned her Doctor of Medicine
from the Ross University School of Medicine in Bridgetown, Saint Michael, Barbados.
In her leisure time, Dr. Vijayakumar enjoys indulging in baking, honing
her skills in crocheting, and avidly following Washington Capitals games.
Class of 2028
Nitasha Abbas, DO
Nitasha Abbas, DO, was born and raised in Woodbridge, Virginia. She attended
medical school at Lincoln Memorial University - DeBusk College of Osteopathic
Medicine and completed undergraduate studies at George Mason University
in Fairfax, VA.
In her spare time, she has a passion for traveling and spending quality
time with family and friends. She also enjoys checking out new restaurants
and cute coffee shops, as well as staying active by hiking or hitting the gym.
Alex Blankinship, DO
Alex Blankinship, DO, was raised in McLean, Virginia. He earned his medical
degree from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine and completed
his undergraduate studies in neuroscience at Susquehanna University in
Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania. In his spare time, he enjoys working out—especially
running and lifting weights—coaching youth basketball, and playing
both acoustic and electric bass. He also loves spending time with his
family, friends, fiancée, and dog, traveling the world, and playing
video games. Having grown up in Virginia, he is especially excited to
serve the community he calls home.
Lauren Davidson, MD
Lauren Davidson, MD, was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland. She earned
her medical degree from the George Washington University School of Medicine
and Health Sciences and completed her undergraduate studies at the University
of Maryland Baltimore County, where she majored in biology and minored
in emergency health sciences.
She enjoys Pilates, barre, thrifting, browsing farmers markets, visiting
cat cafés, and singing karaoke. She is passionate about making
healthcare more accessible, compassionate, and equitable—especially
for women and underserved populations, and she brings that same blend
of care, creativity, and enthusiasm to MWHC. She looks forward to getting
to know and serving the community.
Michael Farahi-Marney, DO, MS
Michael Farahi-Marney, DO, MS, was born and raised in northern Virginia.
He earned his medical degree from the Arkansas College of Osteopathic
Medicine and completed his undergraduate studies in biology and psychology
at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. He also holds a Master
of Science in Biotechnology from Johns Hopkins University.
In his spare time, he enjoys playing basketball, lifting weights, and competing
in pickleball. He has a strong interest in robotics and drones, and enjoys
designing, programming, and building his own drones and planes. An avid
outdoorsman, he spends time hiking and surfing, and values traveling and
exploring new places with his family.
Haris Iqbal, MD
Haris Iqbal, MD, was born and raised in Khushab, Pakistan. He earned his
medical degree from King Edward Medical University and completed his undergraduate
studies in biology at Punjab College of Science. He also holds a Bachelor
of Science from the University of the Punjab in Lahore.
He is a big fan of the outdoors—hiking is his reset button—and
he enjoys the fast-paced energy of chess and pickleball. Always eager
to try new cuisines, he loves tracking down hidden food gems. He’s
also on a mission to visit all 50 U.S. states before turning 30, with
Alaska still on the list.
Merly Konathapally, MD, MPH
Merly Konathapally, MD, MPH, was born in Baltimore and raised in Virginia
Beach. She earned her medical degree from the Virginia Tech Carilion School
of Medicine and completed her undergraduate studies at the University
of Virginia in Charlottesville, where she majored in biochemistry and
minored in psychology. She also holds a Master of Public Health from the
University of Virginia. In her spare time, she enjoys arts and crafts,
going to the beach, and reading.
Jote Limeneh, MD
Jote Limeneh, MD, was born and raised in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He earned
his medical degree from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine,
where he also completed his undergraduate studies. In his spare time,
he enjoys playing pickleball and working out.
Ihsan Lodin, MD
Ihsan Lodin, MD, was born in Afghanistan and raised in Virginia. He earned
his medical degree from St. George's University School of Medicine and
completed his undergraduate studies in biology with a pre-med focus at
George Mason University. In his spare time, he enjoys anything active
and outdoors—from hiking and biking to team sports—and thrives
on a bit of friendly competition. He believes that laughter and kindness
are as healing as any prescription.
Ossama Naveed, MD
Ossama Naveed, MD, was born in Pakistan and raised in Northern Virginia.
He earned his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine and
completed his undergraduate studies at Virginia Commonwealth University
in Richmond, where he majored in biology and minored in chemistry. In
his spare time, he enjoys watching basketball, spending time with his
family, and playing video games.
Saba Oniani, MD
Saba Oniani, MD, was born and raised in Tbilisi, Georgia. He attended
medical school at David Tvildiani Medical University AIETI Medical School
and completed his undergraduate studies at the same institution. In his
spare time, he enjoys singing and playing various instruments, listening
to music and attending live shows, hiking and camping, watching TV shows
and anime, and cooking.
Daniel Oteng, MD
Daniel Oteng, MD, was born and raised in Ghana. He attended medical school
at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology School of Medical
Sciences, where he also earned his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of
Surgery. He completed his undergraduate studies at Opoku Ware School.
In his spare time, he enjoys watching live professional soccer and basketball
games and making genuine friends wherever he goes. He is excited to train
in Fredericksburg, a place that has always felt like a second home.
Venu M Peddibhotla, DO
Venu M Peddibhotla, DO, was born and raised in Ellicott City, Maryland.
He earned his medical degree from the Edward Via College of Osteopathic
Medicine – Virginia Campus and completed his undergraduate studies
in biology at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. In his spare
time, he enjoys playing and watching sports—especially basketball
and football—and is a devoted Orioles fan. He also plays music,
having learned both the Indian tabla and Western percussion, and enjoys
cooking and trying out new restaurants and recipes. He is excited to serve
the Fredericksburg community.
Suhaa Rashid, MD
Suhaa Rashid, MD, was born in New York and grew up in Northern Virginia.
She earned her medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine
and completed her undergraduate studies in biology at Virginia Commonwealth
University in Richmond. In her spare time, she enjoys baking, cooking,
working out, and spending time with her family and friends.
Lema Seboka Degefa, MD
Lema Seboka Degefa, MD, was born and raised in Ethiopia. He earned his
medical degree from Mekelle University College of Health Sciences, where
he also completed his undergraduate studies. He holds additional training
in obstetrics and gynecology from Jimma University in Jimma, Ethiopia.
In his spare time, he enjoys watching soccer, working out, hiking, exploring
new places, and chatting with friends. He draws inspiration from his mother,
a hardworking role model, and values learning from elders.
Riley Ward, MD
Riley Ward, MD, was born in Logan, Utah, and moved with his military family
to Newport, Rhode Island, and Pearl City, Hawaii, before settling in Chesapeake,
Virginia. He earned his medical degree from San Juan Bautista School of
Medicine and completed his undergraduate studies at William and Mary in
Williamsburg, Virginia, where he double-majored in biology and Hispanic studies.
He loves the outdoors—hiking, biking, and mountain climbing—and
teaches hot yoga in his spare time. He also enjoys reading, especially
about U.S. history and classical music, and plays trumpet, piano, and
ukulele. A devoted animal lover, he enjoys helping with dog rescues and
shares a home with his fiancée and their pet bunny. He proudly
claims that mountains are better than beaches.
Class of 2029
Arvin Akhavan, MD
Arvin Akhavan, MD, was born and raised in Iran and came to the U.S. during
high school. He earned his Bachelor of Science in biology from George
Mason University in Virginia, and his medical degree from Ross University
School of Medicine. In his spare time, Dr. Akhavan enjoys staying active
through tennis, soccer, Muay Thai and snowboarding. He is also an avid
outdoors enthusiast and traveler who enjoys exploring new places, cultures
and experiences, and spending time with family and friends.
Ryan Aud, MD
Ryan Aud, MD, was born and raised in Virginia. He earned his undergraduate
degree in chemistry, with minors in biology and religious studies, from
Randolph-Macon College in Virginia, and his medical degree from Virginia
Commonwealth University School of Medicine. In his spare time, Dr. Aud
enjoys biking, cooking, playing tennis, and spending time with friends
and family.
Mannat Chawla, DO
Mannat Chawla, DO, was born in India and raised in Kansas and Virginia.
She earned her undergraduate degree in neuroscience, with a minor in psychology,
from George Mason University in Virginia; a Master of Arts in biomedical
sciences from Bluefield University; and her medical degree from the Edward
Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Virginia. In her spare time, Dr. Chawla
enjoys spending time outdoors, especially playing pickleball and tennis
and swimming.
Thomas Clark, DO
Thomas Clark, DO, was born and raised in Virginia. He earned his undergraduate
degree in neuroscience from William & Mary in Virginia, and his medical
degree from Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine. In his
spare time, Dr. Clark enjoys playing tennis, pickleball and golf, as well
as hiking, running and spending time in downtown Fredericksburg, especially
at local coffee shops and bookstores.
Brett Davie, MD
Brett Davie, MD, was born and raised in Virginia. He earned his Bachelor
of Science in biology, with minors in chemistry and Spanish, from Virginia
Commonwealth University, where he also earned his medical degree. In his
spare time, Dr. Davie enjoys skiing, hiking, reading, working out and
spending time outdoors with his wife and their two dogs.
Shaunak Digambar, DO
Shaunak Digambar, DO, was born in India, and raised in Pennsylvania. He
earned his undergraduate degree in neuroscience and chemistry from the
University of Pittsburgh, a master’s degree in biomedical science
from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, and his medical
degree from the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Virginia Campus.
In his spare time, Dr. Digambar enjoys lifting weights, playing golf and
tennis, rock climbing, and creating content on YouTube.
Hashir Faheem, MD
Hashir Faheem, MD, was born and raised in Virginia. He earned his undergraduate
degree from the University of Toledo in Ohio, and his medical degree from
the University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences. In his
spare time, Dr. Faheem enjoys basketball, baking and making ice cream.
Geronimo Guzman, MD
Geronimo Guzman, MD, was born in Cleveland and raised in Argentina and
Florida. He earned his undergraduate degree in economics from the University
of Florida in Gainesville and his medical degree from Saba University
School of Medicine. In his spare time, Dr. Guzman enjoys staying active,
exploring new places, cooking, baking and spending time with family and friends.
Minaal Khan, DO
Minaal Khan, DO, was born in Alabama and raised in several places around
the world, including the U.S., Dubai, Pakistan and Malaysia. She earned
her undergraduate degree in biology and statistics, with a minor in Middle
Eastern studies, from the University of Virginia and her medical degree
from Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine. In her spare
time, Dr. Khan enjoys traveling, listening to music and visiting new coffee shops.
Yaswitha Mikkilineni, DO
Yaswitha Mikkilineni, DO, was born and raised in Northern Virginia. She
earned her undergraduate degree in biology, with minors in chemistry and
general business, from Virginia Commonwealth University and her medical
degree from the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine. In her spare
time, Dr. Mikkilineni enjoys art, reading and gardening.
Robenson Nguyen, DO
Robenson Nguyen, DO, was born and raised in North Carolina. He earned his
Bachelor of Science in biology from the University of North Carolina and
his medical degree from Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Nguyen enjoys sports, video games, cooking, working
out, and spending time with his fiancée and dog.
Mahmood Sulliman, MD
Mahmood Sulliman, MD, was born and raised in Afghanistan. He completed
his undergraduate studies in Afghanistan, earned his medical degree in
Afghanistan and holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University.
Dr. Sulliman has 25 years of medical training and experience. In his spare
time, he enjoys designing and building.
Sharareh Tafakori, MD
Sharareh Tafakori, MD, was born in Iran and raised in Iran and the U.S.
She earned her undergraduate degree from George Mason University and her
medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine. In her spare time,
Dr. Tafakori enjoys reading, crocheting, watching TV and trying new restaurants.
Hunter Voslow, DO
Hunter Voslow, DO, was born and raised in Virginia. He earned his undergraduate
degree in chemistry from William & Mary in Virginia, and his medical
degree from the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine. He also holds
a master’s degree in physiology and biophysics from Georgetown University.
In his spare time, Dr. Voslow enjoys reading and traveling.
Asma Zahir, MD
Asma Zahir, MD, was born and raised in Pakistan. She earned her medical
degree in Peshawar, Pakistan. In her spare time, Dr. Zahir enjoys spending
time with family, cooking and trying new recipes, traveling, and exploring
new places.
