Episcopal Health Services Celebrates International Women’s Day

Far Rockaway, New York, March 8, 2025 — To celebrate International Women’s Day, we spoke with some of our inspiring female doctors and residents about the women in healthcare who have influenced them. We invite you to read reflections and insights from: Dr. Hana Ilan, Chairman and Residency Site Director, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Department, Dr. Angela Oduro, Attending Physician and Program Director, Obstetrics & Gynecology Department, Dr. Tessy Peter, Chairperson, Family Medicine Department, Ashley Nguyen, OBGYN Resident Physician (PGY3), Dr. Chaithanya Singh, Family Medicine Resident (PGY2), and Dr. Judy Wong, Surgical Resident (PGY5).

Hana Ilan MD, MA Chairman and Residency Site Director, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department

Who is a woman in healthcare who has inspired you? Prior to becoming a physician, I was a CCC-certified speech and language pathologist, working at the Developmental Evaluation Clinic at KCH/ SUNY Downstate. There, I met Krystyna Wisniewski MD, a world-renowned pediatric neurologist who dedicated her life completely to patient care, teaching her residents, contributing to the medical field, and raising her family. She encouraged me to follow my dream of becoming a physician who cares for needy children with chronic illness. I totally identified with her compassion and respect for her patients and their families. Her positive, strong, and supportive energy was contagious, and gave me the strength that I needed to endure the nine-year journey to becoming a doctor.

Can you share a story of a female colleague who has empowered you? In medical school, I was one of only 16 women in a class of 210 students. Many of the male students were fiercely competitive and unwelcoming. Dr. Lucy Squire, a professor in the Department of Radiology, was my faculty advisor during third and fourth year. Dr. Squire, helped me navigate those challenges. A researcher and educator, she authored numerous textbooks and articles while mentoring students like me. She often shared stories of her own journey, including how she became the only female resident physician at Harvard while also raising a child as a single mother.

What about St. John’s Hospital/Episcopal Health Services motivates you to come to work every day? During my residency, I transitioned from neurology to physical medicine and rehabilitation, always remaining dedicated to caring for chronically ill patients. For the past 32 years at St. John’s, I have found immense satisfaction in being part of the team who helps solve patient care challenges, and improving the quality of life for those in need.

Angela Oduro DO FACOG, Attending Physician and Program Director, Obstetrics & Gynecology Department

Who is a woman in healthcare who has inspired you? I have been inspired by Dr. Rochelle Walensky, former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Can you share a story of a female colleague who has empowered you? Dr. Jacqueline Marecheau and Dr. Suzanne Sirota Rozenberg have been instrumental in my journey as both a Program Director and a female physician. Dr. Marecheau’s unwavering support and leadership have given me the confidence and resources to drive meaningful change within our residency program. Dr. Rozenberg’s mentorship has helped me navigate the complexities of medical education while advocating for the growth of our trainees. Their guidance has shaped my ability to lead with purpose and resilience.

What about St. John’s Hospital/Episcopal Health Services motivates you to come to work every day? I am motivated by the opportunity to train and mentor our incredible residents while serving the diverse and resilient community of the Rockaways. Our residents are hardworking and compassionate, and it’s an honor to support their growth. Equally inspiring are our patients, who entrust us with their care despite facing significant health disparities. Their strength and trust reminds me why our work is so important.

Tessy Peter, MD, FCCP, Family Medicine Department Chairperson

Who is a woman in healthcare who has inspired you? When I was a first year fellow, I worked with an Internal Medicine physician who I deeply admired. She was an exceptional clinician – assertive yet compassionate – beloved by both patients and colleagues. She tirelessly advocated for her patients’ well-being and was never deterred by the many barriers facing a woman in medicine back then. She became the example of the type of physician I wanted to be.

Can you share a story of a female colleague who has empowered you? When I was a second-year resident, critical care was still a predominantly male-dominated field. Although I was confident in my skills and knowledge, the idea of pursuing a critical care fellowship was daunting. A faculty mentor encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and apply for a pulmonary-critical care fellowship. Her support and belief in my abilities changed the trajectory of my career and ultimately shaped the physician I am today.

What about St. John’s Hospital/Episcopal Health Services motivates you to come to work every day? I have worked at St John’s Hospital/Episcopal Health Services for 28 years and I can honestly say that it feels like a second home to me. I genuinely love caring for our patient population and feel a deep sense of purpose in serving this community. I am incredibly proud of our team and the high-quality care we provide. It inspires me to give my very best every day.

Dr. Ashley Nguyen, MD, OBGYN Resident (PGY3)

Who is a woman in healthcare who has inspired you? There have been many women who have inspired me, especially in my field of women’s health. During my residency, I had the privilege of working alongside incredible healthcare professionals, particularly in labor and delivery. I continue to be in awe of the nurses who provide such special care and attention to our patients in such an intimate setting. My attendings and colleagues have taught me how to be a strong yet empathetic physician, using my passion as a driving force in my dedication to women’s health. I have witnessed firsthand how to handle situations with both grace and fierceness.

Can you share a story of a female colleague who has empowered you? Dr. Cristina Artiles was my mentor when I started as an intern. I’ve watched her balance her career and family life, including two pregnancies, while remaining deeply committed to her patients. She is down-to-earth, informative, caring, and hands-on in her approach to care. Dr. Artiles does not sit back and relax; she actively engages in every aspect of patient care. She has empowered me to advocate for my patients, to trust my clinical judgement, and continue growing as a resident physician knowing that I have a strong leader supporting me.

What about St. John’s Hospital/Episcopal Health Services motivates you to come to work every day? The women I care for are my greatest motivation. I’m dedicated to serving them with all my heart, and I show up every day with a smile, ready to make a difference.

Chaithanya Singh, MD, Family Medicine Resident (PGY2)

Who is a woman in healthcare who has inspired you? There are many physicians who have been truly inspiring, and while I’ve read about several of them, one person I recently met who left a lasting impression on me is Dr. Penelope Hsu. Dr. Hsu is a truly remarkable person. She has not only excelled in her field but also devoted herself to the well-being of others, especially in a challenging profession like medicine. Her journey of overcoming personal and professional obstacles during residency, and then going on to become a compassionate teacher and advocate for mental health, speaks volumes about her resilience and commitment to making a positive impact.

Can you share a story of a female colleague who has empowered you? I have been fortunate to receive support from many colleagues, both male and female. Senior residents and attending physicians have mentored me, offering guidance on clinical skills and the stresses of medical training. Peer support among residents, nurses, and staff is also invaluable—we rely on each other during long shifts and high-pressure situations.

What about St. John’s Hospital/Episcopal Health Services motivates you to come to work every day? At St. John’s, working with colleagues and serving a diverse population is a huge motivator—the ability to learn from one another, share knowledge, and work together as a team to provide the best care possible. And of course, knowing that every day offers an opportunity for personal and professional growth keeps me energized. The work might be challenging sometimes, but the opportunity to help someone feel better, to witness their recovery or be part of their journey, is incredibly rewarding.

Judy Wong MD, MPH, Surgical Resident (PGY5)

Who is a woman in healthcare who has inspired you?
Dr. Julia Zakhaleva, a general and colorectal surgeon, is one of the few female general surgery attendings that we work with. She inspires me with her direct and tactful mannerisms for her residents, patients, and hospital staff. She is detail-oriented, and always prioritizes what is best for her patients.

What about St. John’s Hospital/Episcopal Health Services motivates you to come to work every day? People in my general surgery residency motivate me to come to work every day. For the amount of time we spend in the hospital together, the residents are like family to me. I also enjoy mentoring junior residents and helping them grow.