General Summary
Dr. Cheema was born in New Orleans, LA and grew up there as well as overseas in the Middle East. He initially studied biomedical engineering, obtaining a bachelor’s degree from Tulane University and a master’s degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago and Rush Medical Center; he also spent one year completing coursework at the University of Manchester in England. After 6 years as a research and design engineer in the spine biotechnology industry however, Dr. Cheema decided on a career change to medicine, and earned a medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine at Seton Hill in Greensburg, PA. He completed an internship and residency in Internal Medicine at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in suburban Chicago, where he earned recognition as intern of the year and was given the residency research award. During this time, Dr. Cheema also spent a month conducting research on the blood cancer, myelodysplastic syndrome, at the Mayo Clinic. He completed his fellowship in hematology and medical oncology at LSU Health Sciences Center in Shreveport, LA where he served as chief fellow in his final year of training.
Dr. Cheema was drawn to oncology because of his belief that it demands the most of a person, both as a physician and a human being. Research into the genetic and molecular mechanisms behind cancer has rapidly changed this field while also shedding light on other areas of medicine. Keeping up to date with the constantly evolving array of treatments this has led to requires a long-term commitment to education on the part of the physician. More challenging than this however is navigating the complex mix of physical, emotional, spiritual, financial, and social changes that occur in patients’ lives during their journey with cancer. Findings ways to connect to each patient while addressing all these concerns gets to the core of being a healer. It is a humbling and enriching role that Dr. Cheema hopes to carry out with honor for all his patients.