Academic Programs
Child Neurology Residency
Child Neurology Residents
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Sarah Hurrell, D.O.
Trainee Representative for the American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Neurology Executive Committee
I was born and raised in the Chicago suburbs earning my medical degree from Midwestern University, CCOM. I have always loved working with children in various roles and I’m excited to dedicate a lifetime to improving their health. I am thrilled to be training at UC Davis in the inaugural class of child neurology, leading the trail for many to follow. In my free time I love hiking with friends, being in and on the water, and painting California landscapes. -
Betina Zubieta Ruiz, M.D.
I come from Mexico, where I did med school and trained as a child neurologist and practiced in a small hospital for years. Life brought me to the US, and I have had the opportunity to train again and learn more about this fascinating specialty. I chose child neurology because I love working with kids (they are resilient, honest, creative and fun!) and the brain is super interesting.
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Arnulfo Cazares, M.D.
I was born and raised in Detroit Michigan to a Mexican family. From a young age, I took a great interest in epilepsy due to family history. I chose UC Davis due to the diverse patient population and great need for neurologists. My colleagues here are wonderful and make training here something to be excited about!
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Virginia (Ginny) Lane, M.D.
I am from North Carolina and Florida, and I look forward to meeting anyone interested in UC Davis. I started down my current path after working in the medical camping industry and as a former high school teacher. Pediatric Neurology is such a cool field because, through the art of play, you can learn and assess a child's neurologic function. For fun, I enjoy reading, being in nature, painting, gardening, nerding out, cooking for friends, and board games. I am thankful for my amazing co-residents; they are all kind and supportive.
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Yamiko Chanza, M.D.
I am from Southern California but my family is from Malawi. I am passionate about whole person care and love the opportunity to journey alongside pediatric patients with neurological conditions. When I'm not in the hospital, I love to run and try new recipes in the kitchen!
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Shantalle Diaz Cruz, M.D.
I am a proud Dominican Republic native with a passion for Child Neurology. In this field, I embrace the unconventional while dedicating myself to the care of children. At UC Davis, I’ve found the perfect platform to grow my agency and sharpen my critical thinking, supported by mentors and co-residents I deeply trust. Beyond medicine, I delight in Italian cuisine, love singing a cappella, and enjoy exploring scenic hiking trails.
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Maria Kiesewetter, M.D.
I grew up in the Seattle area, then moved to Texas for college and med school, where I developed an interest in child neurology. Working with kids always puts a smile on my face, and I find the complexity of neurological conditions to be a welcome challenge. I am so pleased to have ended up here at UC Davis. I was struck by the program's dedication to advocacy, as well as the welcoming attitude of everyone that I've encountered. Outside of medicine, I enjoy playing instruments, cooking, enjoying nature, making art, and playing tabletop games.
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Marthena Phan, M.D.
I was born and raised in Mississauga, near Toronto, Canada, and then completed undergrad and medical school at Florida International University in Miami. I am thrilled to be training at UC Davis to accomplish my longtime goal of becoming a child neurologist! I have a younger brother with autism spectrum disorder who is my biggest inspiration for pursuing a career in child neurology. In my free time, I enjoy playing guitar and ukulele, singing, rollerblading, swimming, hiking, reading, writing, making my own boba and matcha drinks, and trying new restaurants!