Residents

Neurology Residency

Meet the residents of the Neurology Residency at Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Medical Education.

2026

Christopher Gilbert, MD

Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

Christopher Gilbert, MD

2026

Medical School

Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

Hometown

Northville, Mich.

Professional Interests

General Neurology, Movement Disorders, Headache

Undergraduate

Andrews University

Why I chose this program/Grand Rapids for my training

Trinity Health Grand Rapids seemed like the perfect fit for me! It offers a great variety of different clinical experiences, whether that be practicing in different settings or the wide array of sub-specialty experiences offered. It also has the academic backing from the largest group of neuroscience faculty and first comprehensive neuroscience center in West Michigan. But most importantly, when I interviewed I could see the great relationships developed between faculty and residents and among the residents themselves. All this, plus being able to live in one of my favorite places in the world - Michigan's west coast - made the choice for residency easy!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I love traveling with my wife, watching and playing baseball, talking about cars, going to the beach, going on hikes, and enjoying nature. I also enjoy playing the piano, singing, and staying active in the music program at our local church.

Jason Schick, DO

Michigan State College of Osteopathic Medicine Prior

Jason Schick, DO

2026

Medical School

Michigan State College of Osteopathic Medicine Prior

Hometown

Clarkston, Michigan

Professional Interests

Sports Neurology, Neuro-Oncology, General Neurology

Undergraduate

Michigan State University

Why I chose this program/Grand Rapids for my training

I chose Trinity Health Michigan because of the importance they place on resident education, and the faculty/residents - they seem very supportive and caring. I appreciate the number of electives that are offered in different subspecialties as well. I felt Mercy was the best fit for me to continue my education and become an exceptional neurologist.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I enjoy weightlifting, reading, soccer, and going to concerts. I love animals and have three pet snakes!

Maleeha Shah, MD

Khyber Medical College

Maleeha Shah, MD

2026

Medical School

Khyber Medical College

Hometown

Peshawar, Pakistan

Professional Interests

Movement Disorders, Vascular Neurology, General Neurology

Undergraduate

Edwardes College Peshawar

Why I chose this program/Grand Rapids for my training

I chose Trinity Health Michigan as it provides a broad clinical experience in Neurology. The faculty here is excellent and highly supportive of the residents. Overall the program has a very friendly environment.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I enjoy reading, cooking and long walks.

Lauren Turner, DO

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Lauren Turner, DO

2026

Medical School

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hometown

Canton, Mich.

Professional Interests

General Neurology, Vascular Neurology, Interventional Neurology

Undergraduate

Michigan State University

Why I chose this program/Grand Rapids for my training

The people at Trinity Health Michigan were unparalleled. They celebrated my accomplishments, immersed me in hands-on education and grasped the importance of work-life balance. I knew my training here would strongly support either pathway to fellowship or general neurology and do so in an environment of mentors and colleagues turned lifelong friends. I found the family atmosphere I was looking for in an adventure to move from the East side of the state!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I enjoy spending time with my family! I also enjoy being outdoors, which includes hiking, snowboarding, boating, snowmobiling, waterskiing and so much more. I especially love last-minute trips!

2027

A Emili Hernandez Mondragon, MD

Universidad Autonoma De Baja California

A Emili Hernandez Mondragon, MD

2027

Medical School

Universidad Autonoma De Baja California

Hometown

Tijuana, Mexico

Professional Interests

Neurocritical Care, Movement Disorders, General Neurology

Undergraduate

Universidad Autonoma De Baja California

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I chose Trinity Health Grand Rapids because of the outstanding impression I had from residents and faculty on interview day. The program had a welcoming, collegial and transparent atmosphere. The staff was very approachable, and the residents seemed very happy and well supported. The program also emphasizes high-quality education, which I really value!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside medicine, I enjoy long walks, running outside, hiking and exploring food and coffee places with friends.

Taleen Shahrigian, DO

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Taleen Shahrigian, DO

2027

Medical School

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hometown

Northville, Mich.

Professional Interests

Neurology, Neuromusculoskeletal, Movement Disorders

Undergraduate

University of Michigan

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I did an audition rotation at this program, and it felt like home right from the start. All of the residents and attendings were so supportive and made my experience very enjoyable. Everyone made me feel like I was an important part of the team, and I always looked forward to rounds because I learned so much and had fun while doing it.

The environment with this team was great for learning, and I have no doubt that I will receive outstanding training and support from the Neurology team at Trinity Health Grand Rapids.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

My favorite thing to do outside of work is to spend time with family and friends! I also love running, strength training, and math puzzles, like sudoku and kakuro.

Genevieve Stone, DO

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Genevieve Stone, DO

2027

Medical School

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hometown

Troy, Mich.

Professional Interests

General Neurology, Headache, Movement Disorders, Neuropsychiatry

Undergraduate

Michigan State University

Why I chose this program/location for my training

During my medical student rotation and residency interview, everyone was welcoming and eager to teach. Faculty members are genuinely interested in getting to know students and always provide great support and educational experiences for both residents and students. The residents are a close-knit group and passionate about learning and teaching.

Not only is the entire team dedicated to each other and continuing to educate the next generations of neurologists, they consistently go above and beyond to provide comprehensive care to their patients. I am so excited and grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this community!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I enjoy spending time with friends and family, writing, composing music and soccer. I love the mix of nature and city life in Grand Rapids as well as the beautiful beaches of Lake Michigan.

Bobbi Thursam, MD

Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

Bobbi Thursam, MD

2027

Medical School

Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

Hometown

Kingsley, Mich.

Professional Interests

General Neurology, Vascular Neurology

Undergraduate

Grand Valley State University

Why I chose this program/location for my training

In medical school, I had the opportunity to complete a rotation here which not only solidified my future specialty choice but the location as well. Even as a third-year medical student I felt welcome and like a member of the team. It truly feels like a family; everyone is so caring and supportive which creates a great environment to learn.

Outside of the wonderful faculty, this program has a wide array of subspecialties and a diverse variety of patients. This program makes sure its residents are ready for the future, whether that be general neurology or fellowship. I could not think of a better place to spend the next four years.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I enjoy hiking with my dogs, going to the beach, kayaking, roller blading, snowboarding and crafting.

2028

Wafae Chouhani, MD

Université Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Fez

Wafae Chouhani, MD

2028

Medical School

Université Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Fez

Hometown

Azrou, Morocco

Professional Interests

General Neurology, Movement Disorders, Vascular Neurology, Epilepsy

Undergraduate

Université Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I chose this program because of the warm and supportive environment I experienced during my interview. The faculty and residents were incredibly approachable and genuinely passionate about teaching and neurology. Everyone in the program is sincerely interested in getting to know each other, reflecting the sense of community and values of diversity that are well-known in the Grand Rapids area.

The learning opportunities are excellent, with exposure to multiple subspecialties, and the presence of existing fellowships alongside upcoming ones speaks volumes about the program's dedication to fostering a collegial atmosphere.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I enjoy swimming, hiking, exploring new activities and spending time with friends and family.

Abdulsalam Khalaf, MD

Ain Shams University

Abdulsalam Khalaf, MD

2028

Medical School

Ain Shams University

Hometown

Homs

Professional Interests

Stroke, NCC

Undergraduate

Ain Shams University

Why I chose this program/location for my training

Grand Rapids quickly felt like home to me with its friendly people, diverse community and welcoming culture. The supportive environment here makes it an ideal place to grow. Additionally, the program here is recognized for blending classical training and forward-thinking innovation, and being part of this program makes me feel enthusiastic about the future, passionate about learning, and committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of my patients.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of work, I enjoy reading, soccer, outdoor activities and spending time with family and friends.

Danielle Schmidt, DO

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Danielle Schmidt, DO

2028

Medical School

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hometown

Allendale, Mich.

Professional Interests

Neuromuscular Neurology, Movement Disorders, Vascular Neurology

Undergraduate

Michigan State University

Why I chose this program/location for my training

After working as a medical scribe in Trinity Health Grand Rapids' ER and receiving my clinical training at Trinity Health Muskegon during medical school, Trinity Health was already home for this west Michigan native. After rotating with the neurology program for a month, my decision was solidified. The attendings love to teach and care about resident well-being. The residents are friendly and clearly support one another throughout training. This is the family I was searching for and I'm so grateful to have found it.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I enjoy exploring new restaurants and breweries around Grand Rapids, traveling, hiking, seeing live music, spending as much time as I possibly can on Lake Michigan, binge watching Netflix and spending time with my family, friends, and boyfriend.

2029

Winnie Ching, DO

University of Pikeville – Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine

Winnie Ching, DO

2029

Medical School

University of Pikeville – Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hometown

Randolph, Mass.

Professional Interests

Vascular Neurology, Interventional Neurology, Neuroimmunology

Undergraduate

University of Massachusetts – Amherst

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I had a fantastic impression of the program when I interviewed and met some of the current residents. I was impressed by the strong exposure to variety of subspecialties and I felt that the residents truly felt happy in the program. Faculty is very approachable, passionate and dedicated to resident education.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of work, I enjoy exploring new restaurants and coffee shops, catching up on my favorite TV series, and baking. I also enjoy going to fitness classes, particularly cycling and pilates.

Zaiyn Haq, MD

Dow Medical College

Zaiyn Haq, MD

2029

Medical School

Dow Medical College

Hometown

Karachi

Professional Interests

General Neurology, Neuro-Ophthalmology, Vascular Neurology

Undergraduate

Dow Medical College

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I chose this program because of the strong impression I got during the in-person social event. Everyone I met was warm, welcoming, and easy to talk to. The residents seemed genuinely happy and felt supported in reaching their career goals. That sense of community and encouragement really stood out to me. It’s exactly the kind of environment I was looking for in a residency program.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I enjoy photography, especially capturing mesmerizing landscapes. Recently, I've been getting into astrophotography as well. Outside of that, I like to stay active by going to the gym or playing soccer!

Drew Rust, MD

Western Michigan University Homer Stryker, M.D. School of Medicine

Drew Rust, MD

2029

Medical School

Western Michigan University Homer Stryker, M.D. School of Medicine

Hometown

Petoskey, Michigan and Janesville, Wisconsin

Professional Interests

General Neurology, Vascular Neurology, Neurocritical Care, Interventional Neurology

Undergraduate

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I chose the Neurology Program at Trinity Health for the collegial and supportive environment that creates a positive learning atmosphere. During my interview, I could see the faculty investment in resident learning, coupled with strong exposure to a broad range of subspecialties. Additionally, the opportunity to remain in West Michigan for residency training was hard to beat as it is a wonderful place to live.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I enjoy staying active, whether going for a run or heading to the gym. Additionally, I enjoy experiencing the outdoor activities Michigan has to offer, such as skiing in the winter or the beaches in the summer. At home, I enjoy reading and am an avid baseball fan.

Claudine A. Vera Cruz, MD

Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

Claudine A. Vera Cruz, MD

2029

Medical School

Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

Hometown

Hayward, Calif.

Professional Interests

General Neurology, Neurohospitalist, Vascular Neurology

Undergraduate

University of California, Santa Barbara

Why I chose this program/location for my training

During my fourth-year elective at Trinity Health Michigan, what stood out to me was how genuinely kind and happy the residents were. This, to me, spoke volumes about the support they receive and the quality of life within their program.

I also met incredible specialists who are not only leaders in their fields but also passionate teachers, and I knew it would be a privilege to learn and grow here.

And last but definitely not the least, Grand Rapids is a beautiful, walkable city with a lot to offer: great food, a lively downtown, and a safe, welcoming atmosphere with a strong sense of community.

Hobbies/interests outside of work

Outside of work, I enjoy reading (I’m quite proud of my cozy home library), sewing, weightlifting, traveling and exploring with my husband, and spending time with my family, especially my nieces.

2030

Diana Abdalhk, MD

University of Medicine and Health Sciences

Diana Abdalhk, MD

2030

Medical School

University of Medicine and Health Sciences

Hometown

Ontario, Canada

Professional Interests

General Neurology, Movement Disorders, Epilepsy, Vascular Neurology

Undergraduate

York University

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I was looking for a residency program that combines strong academic training with exposure to a wide variety of patient populations, while also emphasizing the wellbeing of the residents. Trinity Health Grand Rapids truly stood out to me. The Hauenstein Center offers an exceptional learning environment, and the program’s commitment to serving the Grand Rapids region aligns closely with my own values.

During my interview, I felt genuinely welcomed by everyone I met, which reinforced my sense that this is a supportive and collaborative place to grow. Living in Grand Rapids would also allow me to stay close to my family while enjoying everything the city has to offer, from its vibrant urban life to the easy access to beaches, parks and outdoor activities.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside work, I enjoy hiking, exploring new places to eat, baking and spending quality time with my family.

Rachel Pfannes, DO

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Rachel Pfannes, DO

2030

Medical School

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hometown

Canton, Mich.

Professional Interests

General Neurology, Neuroimmunology

Undergraduate

University of Michigan – Ann Arbor

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I chose this program because I sought a residency that combined rigorous training, extensive clinical exposure and a supportive culture. Through every interaction, I found the residents and faculty to be genuinely kind. The faculty are clearly enthusiastic about their roles as educators and mentors, and the program values resident feedback and continuous improvement.

I was also impressed by the strong educational curriculum, wide range of subspecialty experiences and diverse patient presentations. I knew this program would provide the training, mentorship and opportunities I needed to help me reach my full potential as a neurologist.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of work, I enjoying reading (and giving recommendations), baking new recipes, visiting museums, hiking up north and spending time with my family & husband. I'm really looking forward to exploring the huge variety of coffee shops and restaurants GR has to offer!

Mabel Waqar, MD

Dow Medical College

Mabel Waqar, MD

2030

Medical School

Dow Medical College

Hometown

Karachi, Pakistan

Professional Interests

Vascular Neurology, Interventional Neurology, Neuroimmunology

Undergraduate

Dow Medical College

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I chose this program because of the positive and welcoming atmosphere I experienced during my interview. The faculty and residents appeared friendly, personable and genuinely happy.

I was also attracted to the program’s Neuroscience Center and its dynamic patient population, which offers extensive clinical exposure and diverse learning opportunities across a wide range of neurologic conditions.

Having previously visited Grand Rapids, I grew to appreciate its friendly community and green environment, which is a refreshing change from the large urban city where I grew up.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of medicine, I enjoy watching forensic/crime documentaries, reading mystery thrillers and playing Wordle. I also occasionally write and read poetry as a creative outlet and a way to unwind.

Summaiyya Waseem, MD

Dow Medical College

Summaiyya Waseem, MD

2030

Medical School

Dow Medical College

Hometown

Karachi, Pakistan

Professional Interests

General Neurology, Epilepsy, Neuromuscular, Vascular Neurology

Undergraduate

Dow Medical College

Why I chose this program/location for my training

What stood out to me about this program was the people. Everyone I met felt approachable, grounded and invested in each other, which made a big impression on me. I was looking for a place where I would be challenged but still feel supported, and this felt like that balance. The clinical training is strong, with early, hands-on exposure in neurology that I felt would help me build a solid foundation.

Grand Rapids felt unexpectedly comfortable and welcoming, which made the decision easier.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of work, I enjoy baking and cooking, especially experimenting with new recipes when I have the time. I also like writing and photo editing as a creative outlet. More recently, I have started trying crocheting.