Hematology-Oncology Fellows
PGY-IV
Ummul Zohra Asfeen, DO
Hometown: Dallas, Texas
Undergrad School: DCMS, India
Medical School: New York Institute of Technology, College of Osteopathic Medicine
Residency: New York Medical College at St. Michael's Medical Cntr
What drew me to Hematology-Oncology: My commitment to Hematology‑Oncology is shaped by both personal experience and scholarly pursuit: accompanying a young family member through cancer and palliative care revealed the vital need for physicians who unite scientific precision with compassion, ensuring dignity throughout the illness journey.
What do I like to do in my free time: Outside of medicine, I find joy in spending time with my husband, family, and friends, which keeps me grounded and connected. I enjoy watching Bollywood films, a pastime that blends culture, music, and storytelling. Photography allows me to capture meaningful moments and perspectives, while cooking Indo‑Chinese cuisine gives me a creative outlet to share with others. I also love hosting events and outdoor activities that bring people together, fostering community and camaraderie. Volunteering and service in the local community are especially important to me, as it is my commitment to building relationships and giving back beyond the clinical setting.
Sristee Niraula, MD
Hometown: Biratnagar, Nepal
Undergrad School: Nobel Medical College
Medical School: Nobel Medical College, Biratnagar, Nepal
Residency: Cayuga Medical Center
What drew me to Hematology-Oncology: I was drawn to Hematology and Oncology because it allows me to form meaningful relationships with patients while caring for them during some of the most challenging times in their lives. I enjoy the balance of complex medicine, teamwork, and continuous advances in the field. Working as both a hospitalist and primary care physician helped me appreciate the importance of compassionate, longitudinal care and further strengthened my passion for caring for patients with cancer.
What do I like to do in my free time: In my free time, I enjoy cooking, spending quality time with my children and family, and unwinding through singing and dancing. These activities help me stay balanced, connected, and energized outside of work.
PGY-V
Divine Besong Arrey Agbor, M.B.B.S,
Hometown: Mamfe, Cameroon
Undergrad School: University of Buea, Cameroon
Medical School: Faculty of Medicine, Higher Institute of Medical Technology, Yaoundé Cameroon.
Residency: Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island New York
What drew me to Hematology-Oncology: I chose the field of hematology and oncology to care for patients facing some of the most challenging diagnoses. Having grown up in a region where blood disorders and malignancies were common but diagnostic and treatment resources were limited, this often led to serious consequences. I developed a strong interest in pursuing specialized training to provide comprehensive care and build long-term relationships with patients. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to train with the Guthrie/Robert Packer Hematology and Oncology Program.
What do I like to do in my free time: Playing Volleyball, Soccer, lawn tennis, road trips with family and friends, pool games.
Sowmya Sagireddy, M.B.B.S,
Hometown: Hyderabad, India
Undergrad School: University of Westindies, Trinidad & Tobago
Medical School: University of Westindies, Trinidad & Tobago
Residency: South Brooklyn Health, Brooklyn, NY (Internal Medicine), University of Texas, San Antonio, Texas (Hospice and Palliative Care Fellowship)
What drew me to Hematology-Oncology: I chose Hematology/Oncology because it combines the intellectual challenge of a rapidly evolving field with the humanistic side of medicine that I value most. My experiences with my grandparents' illnesses showed me firsthand the suffering that cancer brings, and through my training in palliative care I have seen how comprehensive symptom management and compassionate communication can profoundly improve the quality of life for patients and families. What draws me most to Hem-Onc is the privilege of walking alongside patients and their loved ones through some of life's most difficult moments, offering not only advanced treatments but also honesty and hope. It is the blend of science and humanity, of guiding patients with both expertise and empathy, that makes this field so meaningful to me.
What do I like to do in my free time: I enjoy attending Orange theory Fitness classes, exploring new restaurants, trying new recipes and traveling.
PGY-VI
Sundeep 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!
Joseph 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.