BiliaryTractCancer near Florence, SC

Biography: As the son of a physician, I was introduced to the medical community early in life, and it gave me an inherent understanding of its demands and rewards. From a young age, I witnessed the dedication, empathy and resilience medicine requires. This fostered a deep respect for the profession and gave me valuable insights into the patient experience. My father set a wonderful example of how to be a good clinician and an excellent person, always treating people with compassion and kindness. \n Before medical school, I worked many years in wilderness leadership, where I had the opportunity to be the primary medical caregiver for my group of students. Wilderness medicine provided invaluable preparation for a surgical career by honing skills that are crucial in high-stakes environments. The unpredictable nature of the wilderness requires quick thinking, resourcefulness and adaptability - qualities that translate seamlessly to the operating room. I also learned to work with limited resources, which necessitated problem-solving and making important decisions under pressure, two other skills I still use daily. Additionally, I learned the importance of triage, emergency management and the ability to handle unforeseen complications with composure. I am grateful for my wilderness medicine experience during every patient encounter. \n Being a surgeon combines my passion for science with an ability to make a tangible, life-changing impact on individuals. The challenge of solving complex medical puzzles and the precision required in the operating room energize me. Each surgery presents a unique opportunity to restore health and improve quality of life for my patients, which is deeply rewarding. I pride myself on focusing not just on the surgical procedure, but also on the overall well-being of my patients, ensuring they receive personalized care tailored to their needs. \n I grew up in Charlotte and attended college and medical school in North Carolina as well. Before attending medical school, though, I took time to explore other parts of the United States as well as other careers. I've worked as a carpenter, teacher, guide and coach. I still love to travel, now with my wife and son. Seeing new places, being outdoors and eating good food are all things that offer me a reprieve from my work and allow me to return to my patients with renewed energy and perspective.

Biography: Dr. Jeffrey Walls, MD is a Critical Care Medicine Specialist who practices in Charlotte, NC. He is 58 years old and has been practicing for 32 years. Dr. Jeffrey Walls, MD is affiliated with Novant Health Thomasville Medical Center.

Biography: Dr. Oliver Jervis Jr, MD is a Critical Care Medicine Specialist who practices in Charlotte, NC. He is 61 years old and has been practicing for 35 years. Dr. Oliver Jervis Jr, MD is affiliated with Novant Health Mint Hill Medical Center.

Biography: Dr. James Smith, MD is a Critical Care Medicine Specialist who practices in Charlotte, NC. He is 55 years old. Dr. James Smith, MD is affiliated with Novant Health Rowan Medical Center.

Biography: Dr. John Konefal, MD is a Radiation Oncology Specialist who practices in Charlotte, NC. He is 67 years old and has been practicing for 41 years. Dr. John Konefal, MD is affiliated with Novant Health Rowan Medical Center.

Biography: Dr. Robert McCammon, MD is a Radiation Oncology Specialist who practices in Charlotte, NC. He is 50 years old and has been practicing for 22 years. Dr. Robert McCammon, MD is affiliated with Novant Health Rowan Medical Center.

Biography: My interest in treating cancers of the breast, urinary tract and genitals developed during my medical training and continues in my work at Novant Health. Staying on the leading edge of cancer care is important to me. This is one reason that I am a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncologists and the lead physician for Charlotte GU (Genitourinary) Tumor Council. Clinical research is also a way that I can learn and provide treatment options that typically would be unavailable. To support those efforts, I often serve as the principal investigator for Novant Health clinical trials. \n A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Patients and families not only have the physical challenges, but they also must learn an entirely new language of medical terms. My goal is to communicate with patients and family members in ways that are easy to understand. And I take time to explain the reasoning behind my suggested treatment plan because knowledge is power. \n A cancer diagnosis often leaves the patient and family feeling unsettled because so much is unknown. That's why I do everything I can to put patients at ease. I enjoy the relationships I build with my patients and their families and can't see myself doing a different type of work. \n I am from the Midwest, where most of my immediate family still lives. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my dog, Julio, running, entering races and traveling.