Meet the Residents & Faculty

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Roi Medina, DO

Hometown: Honolulu, HI
Undergraduate: University of Oregon
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine - Bradenton
Hobbies: Golfing, running/anything that gets me moving outdoors in the sun, traveling, trying different cuisines, podcasts, cracking jokes, good Netflix documentaries
Favorite Activity in Chicago: The food scene! The city has something to offer for all of the different types of cuisines out there. I really enjoy checking out new bars and restaurants and the scene here in Chicago is outstanding!
 

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Lena Mishack, MD

Hometown: Rochester Hills, MI
Undergrad: Oakland University
Medical School: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
Reason I picked Rush: Rush PM&R is an incredibly well-rounded training program with an emphasis on both academics and community involvement. I love that there is a supportive, family atmosphere between residents and faculty. Also, I had a wonderful experience as a medical student in the Chicago PM&R Fellowship - Dr. Kasi is an amazing teacher!
Favorite thing in Chicago: There’s so much to love about this city! The summer has endless concerts, festivals, and fun activities. It’s very peaceful to walk or bike near the lakefront. There are tons of cool neighborhoods to explore and, of course, the food scene is top notch!
Hobbies: Yoga, cooking, fitness, anything outdoors :)
Fun Fact: I was a radio DJ in college

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Anthony Reyes, MD

Hometown: Edison, NJ
Undergraduate: University of Michigan
Medical School: University of Queensland - Ochsner Clinical School
Hobbies / Activities: Working out, hiking, snowboarding, backpacking, live music events and festivals, cooking, and spending time with my new dog!
Why did I picked Rush PM&R: The people! I loved the camaraderie between the residents/faculty and really wanted to be a part of this family environment. I also valued Rush’s mentorship directed towards both personal & professional development and the emphasis on resident well-being.
Favorite Activity in Chicago: Exploring all the different neighborhoods to find amazing restaurants, shops, and events! I love live music so I can’t wait to experience Chicago’s diverse music scene.
Fun fact: My life goal is to make it to all 7 continents and I only have Antarctica left!

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Chandan Saini, DO

Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona
Undergrad: Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University
Medical School: Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine – Midwestern University
Favorite thing about Chicago: I love driving/biking/running/walking down Lakeshore Drive. Beautiful views of the city and Lake Michigan. Just brings about happiness!
Favorite Restaurant in Chicago: Trivoli Tavern because of the atmosphere
Hobbies: Go Kart Racing/performance driving, basketball (playing and watching; Lakers fan), working out, board games, scary movies late at night, and playing the Ukulele (currently learning).
Fun Fact: I am a Level 1 Wine Sommelier and used to be a competitive Bhangra dancer

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Norris Akpan, MD

Hometown: Peoria, IL
Undergraduate: Southern Illinois University Carbondale 
Medical School: Louisiana State University- New Orleans
Hobbies / Activities: You can find me working on a new painting, enjoying a concert, hiking, making pottery, or watching Jeopardy with my family!
Why did I pick Rush PM&R: I picked Rush PM&R because it offers a wide breadth of learning within the field of physiatry in an environment that actively values resident support and wellness, inclusivity, and genuine care for the vulnerable populations which it serves. After my rotation at Rush. I knew this was the program for me.
Favorite Restaurant: Joy Yee Noddle- the eel and shrimp fried rice is simply *chef's kiss*
Fun Fact: I took a culinary medicine elective in medical school where we learned to cook different types of cuisines under the teaching of an acclaimed sous chef. I can now make a mean tomato and watermelon gazpacho!
Favorite thing about Chicago: There is endless opportunity for exploration, and I look forward to experiencing the best this city has to offer!

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Ahad Bootwala, MD

Hometown: Chicago, IL
Undergraduate: University of Michigan
Medical School: Rush Medical College
Hobbies / Activities: Working out, recreational basketball/pickleball/tennis, watching wildlife documentaries, photography, attempting to cook Indian food. 
Why did I picked Rush PM&R: Spending almost 4 years around Rush PM&R allowed me to see firsthand how genuine, passionate, and caring the team is. There's a balance between learning and wellness that extends from the residents to the attendings. Along with being close to family and friends, staying at Rush was the best choice!
Favorite Restaurant: Kabobi for Mediterranean food 

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Alisha Deshmukh, MD

Hometown: Louisville, Kentucky
Undergraduate: University of Louisville
Medical School: University of Louisville 
Hobbies / Activities: Rock climbing, live music/festivals. semi-competitive kickball, soccer, being bad at pickleball, exploring all the neighborhoods around Chicago
Why did I pick Rush PM&R: I had substantial and easy conversations with every person I met and could feel how great the atmosphere was, even through virtual interviews. It seemed like the perfect fit. Plus, who doesn't love Chicago!
Fun Fact: My goal is to hike/climb in every state! I've got a lot to go.

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Prathima Kandukuri, DO

Hometown: Dallas, Texas
Undergraduate: University of Texas at Dallas
Medical School: University of North Texas HSC- Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hobbies / Activities: Reading, traveling, watching sunsets
Why did I pick Rush PM&R: I rotated at Rush PM&R as a 4th year medical student, and I loved everything about the program including the amazing residents and faculty I met as well as the hospital culture itself!
Favorite Thing About Chicago: The beautiful waterfront views and the amazing friends and family I have here!

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Mitchell Collins, DO

Hometown: Clarendon Hills, IL
Undergraduate: Villanova University
Medical School: Midwestern University Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hobbies / Activities: Soccer, pickleball, and music. I also love to watch sports. I’m a huge Green Bay Packers fan, sorry people of Chicago. I even went to the Super Bowl in 2011 to see the Packers beat the Pittsburgh Steelers. I also love to cook, I took a sushi-making class in college and I’m currently learning to make Indian dishes.
Why I picked RUSH PM&R: I grew up in the Chicago suburbs and have lived in the city for several years, so it was always a goal of mine to practice medicine in Chicago. As a first-year medical student, I connected with the RUSH PM&R department through the medical student fellowship and immediately felt the strong resident culture. After learning from excellent faculty during my audition rotation as a fourth-year student, I felt right at home and was thrilled to match here.
Favorite Restaurant in Chicago: Chicago Pizza & Oven Grinder Co.
Fun Fact: I play rhythm guitar in a cover band. I can also play the ukulele!
Favorite thing about Chicago: I'm a huge fan of the food here, I have a lot of opinions about the pizza and donut scene.

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Santiago Espinosa Salas, MD

Hometown: Mexico City, Mexico
Undergraduate / Medical School: Universidad Panamericana
Hobbies / Activities: Long-distance running, weightlifting, cooking, especially BBQ and grilled meats, and playing Fortnite, although my skills are still a work in progress.
Why I picked RUSH PM&R: I was drawn to RUSH for it's strong emphasis on mentorship, academic excellence, and exposure to different areas of PM&R in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Something that really resonated with me was the program's sense of community and its genuine commitment to serving underserved populations in Chicago.
Favorite Restaurant in Chicago: Ciccio Mio
Fun Fact: I can eat an entire watermelon in one sitting
Favorite thing about Chicago: Running along Lake Michigan, walking by the river, and racing through the crowds during the Chicago Marathon. 2025 will be my third time running it!

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Kiana Jones, MD

Hometown: Chicago, IL
Undergraduate: Marquette University
Medical School: RUSH Medical College
Hobbies / Activities: I love collecting different crafting hobbies like crocheting, using my Cricut machine, pottery, and other DIY projects that arise. I also love playing and watching basketball, exploring new places and cuisines around the city, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.
Why I picked RUSH PM&R: I chose RUSH PM&R because I was confident I would become a well-rounded physiatrist. The program offers diverse clinical experiences within a supportive environment that values community, wellness, and inclusivity. Additionally, I was drawn to the program because of its reach on underserved populations within the Chicagoland area, which will enable me to address ongoing healthcare disparities.
Favorite Thing About Chicago: There is no end to exploring and trying new things in the city. The diversity of experiences truly ensures there's something for everyone.

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Aria Meshkati, MD

Hometown: Watchung, NJ
Undergraduate: Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Medical School: RUSH Medical College
Hobbies / Activities: Working out (calisthenics, yoga, Pilates, olympic weightlifting), recreational sports (soccer, basketball, volleyball), watching science fiction, historical dramas and horror movies, and cooking new cuisines.
Why I picked RUSH PM&R: During my first four years at RUSH, I was able to experience first-hand the passionate and collaborative culture with the PM&R department. The mentorship and support from faculty, current residents, and alumni helped cultivate my passions in rehabilitation medicine. Everyone I have met brings positivity that extends not only their patient care, but also towards uplifting and supporting learners. I wanted to embody those same values, which is why I wanted to stay at RUSH!
Favorite Restaurant in Chicago: So many goods spots in Chicago, but Noon O Kabab is my go-to for Persian food. Le Bouchon is another hidden gem.
Fun Fact: I am a fraternal twin.
Favorite thing about Chicago: Chicago has endless activities which change with the seasons. I enjoy exploring the city's never-ending food scene, making new friends through recreational sports, and taking walks along Lake Michigan!

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Kate Reidy, DO

Hometown: Rochester Hills, MI
Undergraduate: Michigan State University
Medical School: Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hobbies / Activities: I love traveling, hiking and camping--any adventure really. I love to run in the summer and am a big yoga fan. I love listening to music whether at a live show or a part of my growing vinyl collection.
Why I picked RUSH PM&R: During my audition rotation, I felt so comfortable working with these people. Everyone was so amazing and welcoming--it felt like the right environment for me to learn and grow! I also was part of the Chicago PM&R fellowship. Dr. Kasi is a fantastic teacher, and it was great to see the dedication this program has to medical education. I have a growing interest in Global Health and seeing RUSH's strong presence, I knew I would receive the best well-rounded training here.
Favorite Restaurant in Chicago: Le Bouchon! My sister took me here while I was doing my audition rotation.
Fun Fact: I met one of the Beatles (Paul) in my hometown.
Favorite thing about Chicago: The city and lake life all in one! Running on the lakeshore and going for a post-run dip is the best. Having family and friends all in the city is also a huge bonus.

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Mariana Velasquez-Cano, MD

Hometown: Medellin, Colombia
Undergraduate / Medical School: Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana
Hobbies / Activities: Dancing and horseback riding
Why I picked RUSH PM&R: Research and global health opportunities. I am also very interested in community rehabilitation.
Fun Fact: I once managed an entire conference room at an international PM&R event, making sure everything ran smoothly for presenters and attendees.
Favorite thing about Chicago: The diversity and lakefront!

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Safura Ateeq, DO

Hometown: Lombard, IL
Undergraduate Studies: University of Illinois at Chicago
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Reason I picked Rush: Too many to count, but some are unique opportunities within Rehab including pelvic health, P&O, and strong support in pursuing research. Also Dr. Kasi’s passion for all things PM&R!
Favorite thing in Chicago: I just discovered Maggie Daley Park, so that for now!
Hobbies / Activities: Running after my two kiddos
Fun Fact: I swallowed a needle and lived to tell the tale

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Aaron Bernal, DO

Hometown: San Antonio, Texas
Undergraduate Studies: Texas A&M University
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
Reason I picked Rush: Rush PM&R felt like family to me. When I rotated here, everybody was so kind, Dr. Kasi is the best, and when I left, I missed being there; I knew it was the place for me. Not to mention, the PM&R program offers exceptional opportunities to grow into the physiatrist I'd like to be. Also, choosing Rush felt like joining an institution that would challenge me to become a better physician and person. Lastly, Rush's commitment to caring for the people of Chicago, especially its underserved communities, is something I wanted to be a part of.
Favorite thing in Chicago: Strolling down lakeshore. Exploring the excellent cuisine this city has to offer. Bears and White Sox games with my dad :)
Hobbies / Activities: Weightlifting, snowboarding, golf, and strictly shooting 3-pointers in pick-up basketball. Full-time cat dad. Faithfully supporting my Aggies and Spurs. Breakfast and grilling specialist. Vintage/thrift store shopping and vinyl collecting. Watching 2000's comedy movies, Studio Ghibli, and all things Tarantino.  
Fun Fact: I drive a moped to work :)

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Shalini Patel, DO

Hometown: Vernon Hills, IL
Undergraduate Studies: University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
Medical School: Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine - Midwestern University
Reason I picked Rush: I rotated at Rush during my fourth year and loved how supportive and welcoming all of the residents and faculty were. The strong sense of community made it feel like the perfect place to learn and grow. I was also impressed by the dedication to resident education and the diverse clinical experiences.
Favorite thing in Chicago: I love walking along the Riverwalk and lakefront. I'm excited to keep exploring the city and discover new places to eat! 
Hobbies / Activities: Cooking, yoga, pickleball, and watching movies with friends and family!
Fun Fact: I have a twin sister!

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Samuel Reyes, MD

Hometown: Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Undergraduate Studies: University of California-San Diego La Jolla, CA - Human Biology
Medical School: Northwestern, Feinberg School of Medicine
Reason I picked Rush: resident preparation/camaraderie, equity opportunities, global health, and research  
Favorite thing in Chicago: Foodie paradise
Hobbies / Activities: Lifting, running along lakeshore, and cooking
Fun Fact: Continued artisanal winemaking at home. Reyes Reserve since 2021. Still learning : )

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Austin Sovell, MD

Bio coming soon !

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Jeremy Yuan, MD

Hometown: Johns Creek, Georgia
Undergraduate Studies: University of Chicago
Medical School: University of Illinois Chicago
Reason I picked Rush: Rush provided me with the unique opportunity to receive strong training across all aspects of PM&R in a supportive learning environment with plenty of fellowship support. Dr. Kasi and Dr. Patton welcomed me with open arms and helped me develop into a physician with a strong clinical foundation and a passion for mentorship and community service.
Favorite thing in Chicago: The availability of both frugal and fancy food options throughout the city, as well as having beach, water, and snow all in 1 big city.
Hobbies / Activities: Playing tennis, cheering for the Atlanta Braves, working out at East Bank Club
Fun Fact: I accumulated around $500 of prize money during my brief professional tennis career. After I retired, I taught tennis at East Bank Club for 5 years during medical school and played tennis in the summer Chicago Park District Tennis League.