Meet Our Residents
Learn more about our current Family Medicine residents.
Third Year Residents
Amanpreet Aujla, MD
Medical Education: St. George's University School of Medicine
Undergraduate Education: University of Maryland, Baltimore County
Amanpreet was born and raised in Laurel, Maryland. She obtained her medical degree from St. Georges University. Her passion for medicine began when she was working at the Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, a treatment research unit dedicated to developing and evaluating behavioral interventions that address problems such as drug addiction and poverty. Under this intervention, adults who struggled with drug addictions had the chance to earn wages while meeting treatment goals of abstinence and medication adherence. She was drawn to family medicine due to its focus on preventative care and being able to build trustworthy relationships with patients. Outside medicine, Amanpreet enjoys trying out new restaurants, watching new movies, and spending time with friends.
Ragini Ganjoo, MD
Medical Education: Windsor University School of Medicine
Undergraduate Education: University of Maryland, College Park
Ragini was born in India and immigrated to Bowie, Maryland when she was three years old. She attended The University of Maryland, College Park where she majored in neurobiology and physiology. While at Windsor University School of Medicine, Ragini took a keen interest in working with underserved populations. Breaking the various cultural and socioeconomic barriers that limit access to healthcare are just a few of the things that Ragini is passionate about. The ability to work with a variety of medical cases as well as the immense value of preventative care led her to choosing family medicine. Ragini chose Saint Francis because it has a unique nurturing and supportive learning environment and because it is an unopposed program that allows her a greater opportunity to train and learn from all medical disciplines. In her free time, Ragini enjoys being physically active, listening to music, and spending time with her friends and family.
Merna Haridi, MD
Medical Education: St. Martinus University Faculty of Medicine
Undergraduate Education: Barnard College of Columbia University
Merna was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. She grew up with her Egyptian parents and is the eldest of four. Merna attended Barnard College of Columbia University, the all-women’s Ivy League institution in NYC, as a first-generation college student where she received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology. She then graduated from Walden University with her Master in Public Health while attending St. Martinus University Faculty of Medicine, earning her medical degree. Growing up in Brooklyn and completing clinical rotations in Michigan has allowed Merna to witness the enormous effect that social determinants of health have on a patient’s life. She strongly believes that having a primary care physician that understands those variables affects a patient’s trust with the entire system. Merna has been able to experience medicine in the United States and Egypt, providing her with a diverse patient population to help and learn from. Her interests lie in improving access to women’s health and reproductive health, preventative medicine, integrative medicine, mental health, and patient advocacy. Merna has a great passion for mentorship and teaching, and she continues to mentor both high school and college minority students pursuing the pre-medical track. Family medicine fuels her passion for social justice and the ability to care for all aspects of a patient’s emotional, mental, and physical well-being regardless of age, sex, religion, etc. She chose Saint Francis Hospital for her Family Medicine Residency training because of the strong sense of community the program carries on, as well as its commitment to advocating for patients’ needs on a personal and community level. In her spare time, Merna enjoys competitive swimming, tennis, meditating, painting, and spending time with her family. She is grateful to be a part of the Saint Francis Hospital family and excited to be beginning a new chapter in her life as a family physician in Wilmington.
Maria Henriquez, MD
Medical Education: Universidad de Carabobo
Maria was born and raised in Valencia, Venezuela where she obtained her medical degree at Universidad de Carabobo. Soon after graduation, she practiced medicine in a remote rural area where she had extensive experience treating all spectrums of patients. After moving to the United States, she worked as a medical assistant alongside family medicine doctors and obstetricians. Also, she began to work in a rural area in Weimar, Texas helping and advocating for underserved communities. Her previous experience in the medical field allowed her to choose Family Medicine because of the ability to serve in a holistic way and build a close connection with patients and their family members. Maria chose Saint Francis Hospital due to it being an unopposed program, that centers education on community-based activities throughout a diverse population. In her free time, Maria enjoys mountain biking with her husband, CrossFit, and caring for her three pet babies (Zeus, Apollo and Thunder).
Michael Persch, MD
Medical Education: St. George's University School of Medicine
Undergraduate Education: Saint Joseph's University
Michael was born and raised in Chester County, Pennsylvania where he grew up stocking shelves in his family’s grocery stores. He attended St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia earning a degree in Biology. After graduation, Michael worked for Prudential Financial as a part of the medical underwriting team for long-term care insurance. While working in the corporate insurance world, Michael’s childhood dream of becoming a physician was re-ignited. He enrolled in post-baccalaureate classes at West Chester University and set back on the path to achieve these goals. Michael earned his medical degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies. While in Grenada he was involved with the ECIP: Early Childhood Intervention Program, bringing much needed care to children with Autism and other assorted childhood ailments. Michael is a “rabid” Philadelphia sports fan and enjoys spending time on the Chesapeake Bay. Dog dad to Carson, whom he adopted from the Island of Grenada!!!
Jacob Scott, MD
Medical Education: Trinity School of Medicine
Undergraduate Education: Salisbury University
Jacob was born and raised in Aberdeen MD. He earned his undergraduate degree in Exercise Science from Salisbury University. He then earned his Doctor of Medicine from Trinity School of Medicine. Throughout his clerkships in Baltimore MD, he discovered his main interests in medicine include primary care, preventative medicine, and sports medicine. Interests outside of medicine include soccer, lacrosse, golf, hiking, snowboarding, or any other outdoor activity. He is excited to start training at Saint Francis Family Medicine Program.
Second Year Residents
Leandro V. Bealuka, MD
Medical Education: Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina, Brazil
Leandro is originally from Telemaco Borba, a city in southern Brazil. Influenced by his father, his journey began in electrical engineering before discovering his true calling in medicine. He earned his medical degree at Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina—Tubarao, Santa Catarina, Brazil, and went on to practice as a dedicated family physician for nearly a decade in his home country. Driven by a desire to expand his expertise and training, Leandro pursued his dream of further education in the United States.
His journey led him to Saint Francis Hospital, a place he describes as more than a training ground—it’s a close-knit community where he feels fortunate to belong. Leandro's medical interests encompass geriatrics, palliative care, and public health, reflecting his commitment to comprehensive patient care and community well-being. His passion for palliative care was profoundly influenced by his grandfather’s situation, an experience that shaped him as a physician and deepened his resolve to provide compassionate care for patients and their families.
Beyond medicine, Leandro finds joy in outdoor activities and road trips, exploring new landscapes and coffee shops. He has a passion for mechanics and enjoys cooking for his loved ones, accompanied by his wife and his beloved dog, Amora.
Thomas Bonitz, DO
Medical Education: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) at Seton Hill
Undergraduate Education: Shippensburg University
Thomas was born and raised in York, Pennsylvania, where he grew up working for his father’s small business, installing carpet and other types of flooring. He attended Shippensburg University, where he discovered his interests in exercise, nutrition, health, teaching and science. Ultimately, this is where his passion for medicine began. It is also where he met his wonderful wife, Kayle, who has always been his biggest supporter.
Thomas chose to pursue osteopathic medicine because he believes that a holistic approach to evaluating and treating patients, combined with additional training in the musculoskeletal system, yields the best results when integrated with modern medicine. His commitment to the principles of osteopathic medicine led him to specialize in family medicine, as he is passionate about preventive medicine, lifestyle medicine, and osteopathic manipulative medicine. He chose Saint Francis because his personal beliefs align perfectly with the institution’s mission to improve the health and lives of patients from within the community.
Saint Francis is an unopposed program that allows its family medicine residents to gain extensive training and experience in all aspects of medicine, which is important to him because he loves to learn. Thomas hopes to bring osteopathic manipulative medicine and other treatments to Wilmington and help integrate their use into the community as he becomes a part of it. In his free time, he enjoys spending time on the beach, athletics, exercising, woodworking, and spending time with his wife and two cats, Mittens and Ivy.
Samuel Brosman, MD
Medical Education: Trinity School of Medicine
Undergraduate Education: Elmira College
Sam grew up in Atlantic County, New Jersey, where he developed a deep empathy for the special needs community. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Elmira College in biochemistry and biology, and his medical degree from Trinity School of Medicine. It was his time spent at local orphanages during medical school that truly broadened his perspective. There, Sam found himself caring for a diverse range of children, each with their own unique challenges and needs.
After graduation, Sam worked at the Kennedy Krieger Institute, where he specialized in pediatric care for children with Autism. This phase of his career was marked by dedication and innovation, as he sought to improve the lives of his young patients through compassionate and personalized care. His efforts were driven by a genuine desire to build lasting, trustworthy relationships with each patient he encountered. Sam’s transition to Family Medicine at Saint Francis was a natural progression, reflecting his belief in the power of primary care to foster community health and wellbeing. He appreciates the ability to integrate his interests in primary care, sports medicine, and his specialized knowledge of Autism care.
Outside of medicine, Sam finds joy in cooking, exploring new restaurants, spending time at the beach, and of course, as an avid baseball fan is often watching Philadelphia sports.
Ahmad Hamade, MD
Medical School: Saint James School of Medicine
Undergraduate Education: The University of Western Ontario
Ahmad was born and raised in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada and comes from a Lebanese background. Growing up he always had a passion for science which ultimately led him to pursue his undergraduate degree in biological and medical sciences at The University of Western Ontario in London, Ontario, Canada.
During his undergraduate studies Ahmad discovered his passion for medicine and began his medical journey in the Caribbean. While living there, he drew interest in family medicine as it prioritizes preventative medicine and allows you to be a strong health advocate for marginalized communities. He has always had a passion for mentorship and educational scholarship which is why he always pursued opportunities to be a teaching assistant and clinical skills tutor during medical school.
Following medical school graduation, he worked as a medical assistant in family and pain medicine. This allowed him to further refine his clinical skills and continue to enhance his medical knowledge. He also worked in a nursing home particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic which allowed him to be at the forefront for vulnerable populations. He has always had interest in research and continues to work as a research assistant at McMaster University in his hometown of Hamilton, Ontario in the department of Family Medicine, division of Palliative Care. He was excited to match at Saint Francis Hospital as it is an unopposed program and serves a high-risk population which will give him a vast amount of clinical exposure allowing him to be a strong well-rounded competent physician in practice.
Outside of medicine Ahmad loves spending time with his spouse, watching and playing sports such as basketball and soccer, spending time outdoors, and going to the gym.
Juan Leon Ariza, MD
Medical Education: Universidad de La Sabana, Columbia
Juan was born in Colombia and raised in Japan. He obtained his Medical Degree from Universidad de La Sabana. His interest in primary care emerged early in his career while working for diverse underserved communities. Juan’s multicultural background has enabled him to serve diverse populations across different countries.
Juan has worked in the outpatient setting in Miami, and this experience has allowed him to expand his knowledge of chronic diseases and reaffirm his love for Family Medicine. He has an interesting research profile and has published cutting-edge papers in numerous peer-reviewed journals, providing him with valuable knowledge and recognition in different medical fields.
He enjoys traveling and learning from cultures while sharing his own experiences with others. In his spare time, Juan enjoys running, watching and playing soccer, and spending time with his family.
Maria Nadales Lusinche, MD
Medical Education: Universidad de Carabobo, Venezuela
Maria born and raised in Venezuela, where she obtained her medical degree at the Universidad de Carabobo. Seeking further education opportunities, she moved to Spain, where she earned her master’s in business administration before relocating to Miami to prepare for her career as a physician in the U.S.
Deeply committed to helping others, Maria served as a board member of the Venezuelan American Medical Association for three years, providing support to other foreign physicians as well as advocating for the health and humanitarian crisis in Venezuela, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of this journey, she was honored to participate as a volunteer physician on the Enduring Promise mission aboard the USNS Comfort hospital ship alongside the United States Naval Forces Southern Command. Maria’s medical interests are focused on metabolic and longevity medicine, and she is currently involved in Artificial Intelligence research as well as actively contributing as one of the Spanish editors for the official podcast of the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).
Outside of her professional life, Maria cherishes her roles as a mother to a baby girl and a loving wife. She has a deep passion for travel, savoring sunsets, enjoying fine wine, and relishing Mediterranean cuisine.
First Year Residents
Kadir Abdul, MD
Medical Education: Ross University School of Medicine
Undergraduate Education: Morgan State University
Kadir was born in Kandahar, Afghanistan, and immigrated to the U.S. at the age of 13. From an early age, he recognized the profound impact of preventive medicine and the role of social determinants of health in shaping individual and community well-being.
During his clinical rotations, Kadir was drawn to Family Medicine for its comprehensive scope, continuity of care, diverse patient population, and the opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients. As a medical student, he actively participated in outreach programs at underserved clinics in Barbados, raising awareness and promoting the management of chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
In his final year of medical school, Kadir served as a student leader at the University of Maryland Capital Regional Hospital where he guided incoming medical students in taking thorough histories, performing physical exams, and developing clinical reasoning through group-based learning. He also mentored middle school students through the Mini Medical School program, nurturing early interest in the field of medicine.
Having witnessed healthcare disparities firsthand in Baltimore City, Kadir is deeply committed to addressing social determinants of health. He is especially passionate about primary care and preventive medicine, believing it to be the most cost-effective way to reduce complications, prevent hospitalizations, and improve patients' quality of life.
Kadir chose Saint Francis for its unopposed program, rigorous curriculum, and compassionate, highly knowledgeable faculty. His journey to Saint Francis has taken him across five different countries, shaping his global perspective on medicine.
Outside of medicine, Kadir enjoys meeting new people and learning about their cultures and experiences. He is an avid soccer player and chess enthusiast. He is fluent in Pashto, Urdu, Hindi and English.
Vanessa Boosahda, MD
Medical Education: Xavier University School of Medicine
Undergraduate Education: University of Mary Washington
Born and raised in Northern Virginia, Dr. Boosahda has been on a winding (but rewarding!) path to Family Medicine. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Mary Washington and earned her medical degree from Xavier University School of Medicine.
Along the way, she discovered a passion for mentorship, especially helping students prepare for the USMLE and residency. After navigating her own set of hurdles, she realized how powerful it is to hear “you’re not alone” and has been paying that message forward ever since to the students she tutors and supports each and every week.
She fell for Family Medicine after going through each rotation in medical school and thinking, “this might be the one!” But it was at the AAFP conference where everything truly clicked. Hearing the stories of attendings and residents who were passionate about full-scope patient care, meaningful relationships, and making a difference in their communities, she saw herself in those stories and knew she’d found her people.
Dr. Boosahda chose Saint Francis because she finally felt the “click” everyone talks about when you know you’ve found your match. From the moment she met the faculty and residents, she knew this was the place where she belonged.
Clinically, she’s interested in full-scope Family Medicine, with a special love for women’s health, obstetrics, mental health, and procedures. Outside the hospital, she keeps her hands just as busy with decorating intricate pysanky, turning wood into one-of-a-kind art, trying to convince her cat Southpaw to cuddle with her, and spending as much time as possible with her family and the ones she loves. Her nieces and nephew are her greatest motivation because they remind her of what matters most and who she’s working so hard for (besides Southpaw).
Luis Fernandez, MD
Medical Education: St. George’s University School of Medicine
Undergraduate Education: Florida International University
Luis was born in Peru and moved to Florida at the age of 18, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering while balancing several part-time jobs. These experiences, combined with his academic background, led him to a role as a clinical analyst managing Epic systems at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach.
To further his professional career, Luis relocated to New York and began working at Jamaica Hospital. It was there that he had the opportunity to shadow ER physicians, an experience that truly sparked his passion for medicine. Inspired by the dynamic and fast-paced environment, he decided to pursue medical school at St. George’s University in Grenada. During his clinical rotations, he found great fulfillment in the variety of cases and the opportunity to provide comprehensive care to patients, which ultimately led him to choose family medicine as his specialty.
Luis is excited to begin the next chapter of his medical career at Saint Francis Hospital. He is drawn to the hospital’s commitment to serving the Wilmington community and its supportive Family Medicine residency program. Outside of medicine, Luis enjoys playing musical instruments, cooking, hiking with his wife, and spending quality time with his baby girl.
Kassinda Matthews-Kerr, MD
Medical Education: Trinity School of Medicine
Undergraduate Education: Higher Institute of Medical Sciences
Kassinda was born and raised in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, West Indies. She received her undergraduate degree in Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation at the Higher Institute of Medical Sciences in Villa Clara, Cuba. She then earned her Doctor of Medicine degree from Trinity School of Medicine.
Kassinda's passion for Family Medicine stems from a strong interest in preventive medicine, chronic disease management and community health. She has unwavering commitment to health equality and patient-centered care.
Whenever she gets the opportunity to do so, Kassinda enjoys hiking and travelling with her husband and son and trying international cuisine.
Kassinda is eager to join the Saint Francis family where she can combine clinical excellence with community engagement.
Sayna Nahvi, MD
Medical Education: Washington University of Health and Sciences
Undergraduate Education: York University
Sayna was born in Iran and immigrated to Toronto at the age of eight. She is fluent in both English and Farsi. She earned her medical degree from Washington University of Health and Science. Drawn to the breadth and diversity of the field, she chose to specialize in family medicine for its wide scope of care and its comprehensive curriculum.
Sayna has a strong interest in women’s health and is passionate about improving access to care and advocating for women across all stages of life. She is excited to begin her training at the Saint Francis Family Medicine Program, which she chose for its diverse patient population and the warmth and supportiveness of its attending physicians.
Yogesh Prajapati, MD
Medical Education: Xavier University School of Medicine
Undergraduate Education: University of Massachusetts, Amherst
Yogesh was born in India and immigrated to the United States at the age of five. He grew up in Massachusetts and, from a young age, felt a strong pull toward medicine. While he initially didn’t have a specific reason for this interest, his perspective evolved as he began to travel and see the world. He noticed that many communities lacked access to basic healthcare, which inspired him to serve underserved populations. His passion for working in both fast-paced environments and offering care across inpatient and outpatient settings makes Family Medicine the ideal fit for his career goals.
Yogesh earned his B.S. in Biology from UMass Amherst with the dream of becoming a physician. He shadowed multiple physicians and learned fundamental clinical skills, including how to take vitals and perform physical exams. He later graduated from Xavier University School of Medicine in Aruba. During medical school, Yogesh enjoyed mentoring several students.
Outside of medicine, Yogesh is an avid foodie. Although he is a vegetarian, he enjoys exploring different cuisines and discovering new restaurants. This passion led him to start a food blogging page, which he hopes to grow further. In his free time, he enjoys going to the gym, traveling, spending time with friends and family, playing and watching football, and, most of all, meeting new people.