Fellows

Savinda Aponso, DO

Undergraduate: Oregon State University
Medical school: Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA
Residency: Samaritan Health Services, Corvallis, OR
Research interests: Lupus, early detection of inflammatory disease

I was always fascinated by the complexities of autoimmune disease and their varied presentations. However, what ultimately drew me to the field were the people. I am drawn to the continuity of care and the ability to build long-term relationships while navigating the highs and lows of disease alongside my patients. Rheumatology allows me to not only treat disease but also to enable patients to live more unfettered by their conditions by not letting their diagnosis define them.

Outside of work, I enjoy traveling and trying new food, playing soccer and golf, and playing video games or reading fantasy novels.

Katherine Loomba, DO

Undergraduate: Binghamton University 
Medical school: New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine
Residency: Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center
Research interests: Vasculitis, osteoporosis

Rheumatology is so fascinating and fun because of the thinking and problem solving it requires. Because of the time it can take for our patients to get a diagnosis, it’s gratifying to help them finally figure out what’s going on and be able to improve their symptoms.

Outside of work I enjoy kayaking, hiking, biking, skiing and reading.

Irtza Badar, MD

Medical school: Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al-Nahyan Medical and Dental College, Lahore, Pakistan
Residency: Mercy Catholic Medical Center, Darby, PA
Research interests: Vasculitis, Medical Education and Improving Access to Rheumatology

Growing up with a parent who had an active rheumatological disease ignited my initial interest in rheumatology. I have always been captivated by the complexities and diverse pathologies in this field. It might be the only field which has a blend of clinical detective work, where diseases can be elusive but impact multiple organ systems. However, at the same time, I have a strong belief that becoming a rheumatologist isn’t just about diagnosing and treating diseases, but about creating meaningful connections that empower patients in their journey towards better health.

Outside of work, I love learning new recipes, watching soccer or formula 1, playing golf, and my yearly Lord of the Rings binge.

Anu George, MD

Medical school: Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India 
Residency: Saint Vincent Hospital, Worcester, Massachusetts 
Research interest: Cutaneous manifestations of rheumatological diseases, GCA

As a practicing dermatologist in India, my favorite clinic used to be the complex medical dermatology clinic, where I was exposed to a wide range of rheumatological diseases with dermatological manifestations. This exciting journey ultimately inspired me to pursue Rheumatology. What I enjoy the most in medicine is interacting with patients, working with them to find answers, and witnessing the positive impact of the right diagnosis and treatment on their lives. Rheumatology, with its emphasis on clinical reasoning and problem-solving, provides a deeply fulfilling opportunity to combine these passions. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, baking and reading.