Hematology-Oncology Fellows

1st Year

Sundeep Bekal, DOSundeep Bekal, DO

Hometown: Fresno, CA
Undergrad School: UC Berkeley​​​​​​​
Medical School: Touro University, California​​​​​​​
Residency: UCSF Fresno​​​​​​​
What drew me to Hematology-Oncology: While working as a hospitalist these last few years, I encountered many patients who often struggled with their new cancer diagnosis and sometimes left the hospital with more questions than answers. Seeing them suffer with such a heavy burden without any sort of support inspired me to become an Oncologist. As an oncologist, I have the unique opportunity to be an advocate for my patients and to help support and guide them through this difficult journey. In addition, being able to take a role in my patients’ quality of life and comfort gives me a sense of fulfillment. With continuously evolving research for the treatment of cancers, I find the work to be intellectually stimulating and remain optimistic in the advances we will make in the years to come. I am thankful for the opportunity to be a fellow at Robert Packer Hospital and am excited for this next chapter in my training!​​​​​​​
What do I like to do in my free time: Running, Playing Tennis, Trying new restaurants, Hiking. I’m also huge fan of video games, science fiction/fantasy novels and comic books/anime. I also love to travel and have been to over 14 countries so far with several more still on my bucket list!

 

Joesph Kuruvilla, DOJoesph Kuruvilla, DO

Hometown: Brentwood, New York​​​​​​​
Undergrad School: Stony Brook University​​​​​​​
Medical School: University of New England​​​​​​​
Residency: Nuvance Health-New York (Internal Medicine) University of Missouri (Hospice and Palliative Care Medicine Fellowship)​​​​​​​
What drew me to Hematology-Oncology: Hematology/Oncology won me over when I saw the real difference I could make in the lives of patients facing cancer. It's like solving a puzzle with each patient, combining the latest science, genuine care, and teamwork to find the best path forward. Every patient brings their own story and strength to the table, and I feel lucky to be part of their journey, offering hope and a listening ear. It's a reminder that each day is a chance to make someone's life a little better, and I'm grateful to share these meaningful moments with my patients.​​​​​​​
What do I like to do in my free time: When I'm not immersed in the world of hematology and oncology, you'll often find me passionately cheering on my New York Jets—I'm a die-hard fan through thick and thin! Cooking is another passion of mine; I love getting creative in the kitchen and trying out new recipes. It's my way of unwinding and indulging in some delicious creativity. Quality time with my loyal dog and my amazing wife, who's always up for an adventure, is truly priceless. Whether we're planning our next getaway or exploring new cuisines together, we make the most of every moment. From weekend escapes to grand adventures abroad, we love discovering new cultures and making memories.

2nd Year

Muneer KhanMuneer Khan, MD

Hometown: Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Undergrad School: Froebel's International School
Medical School: Khyber Medical College
Residency: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (Bronx)
What drew me to Hematology-Oncology: "You have cancer." These are probably the most devasting words anyone can hear. However, through personal and professional experience, I have learned that "empathy" is a quality any physician should have, let alone a Hematologist/Oncologist. When my mother lost her hair to chemotherapy, I went to the barbers' and asked them to shave my head down. When I came home all bald, I still remember her smiling, laughing, and crying at the same time about what I had done. It was a beautiful moment that I carry with me to this day. Cancer patients are vulnerable physically, mentally, and emotionally. Being able to lighten the hardships of my patients' diagnoses and the stress they and their families endure is the driving force behind my "why" I want to improve and be a part of this field. My personal life, medical school, and residency cemented my relationship with Hematology/Oncology at every step. And this is where we are now. I am excited and grateful to be a part of the Guthrie Hem/Onc family; Guthrie has already been home for four years.
What do I like to do in my free time: Not to brag, but I have recently realized how good of a cook I am and how much it relaxes me. I enjoy listening to music and watching tv shows. I am an avid fly-fishing enthusiast, so during my time off, I am either reading a fly-fishing book or out on the waters attempting the perfect cast.

 

Marcelle G Meseeha, MD, FACPMarcelle Meseeha, MD, FACP

Hometown: Alexandria, Egypt
Undergrad School: University of Alexandria, Egypt​​​​​​​
Medical School: Alexandria University Faculty of Medicine, Egypt​​​​​​​
Residency: Robert Packer Hospital, Internal Medicine​​​​​​​
What drew me to Hematology-Oncology: After working as a hospitalist, caring for cancer patients every day, I built a bonding relationship with those patients who are in need for help. This has allowed me to appreciate how much my heart and soul are devoted to this field. Practicing hematology/oncology will allow me keep similar relationships but in the context of the specialty. I enjoy the broad challenge of hematology/oncology and the strength that I get from the resilience and optimism of oncology patients.

Hematology/ oncology is deeply rewarding work, with the opportunity to help patients with life-threatening illnesses through both hands-on patient care and practice-changing research.
What do I like to do in my free time: Spending time with my husband and our lovely 3 children, cooking, shopping, listening to music and surfing the internet.