August 19, 2026 | By Atrium Health Foundation | In Uncategorized
Every day, communities depend on the exceptional cancer care provided close to home at Atrium Health Levine Cancer. But that impact extends beyond the care patients need today. Philanthropic support also helps future physicians receive the training they need to care for families, friends, and neighbors for generations to come.
The Charis Cancer Fellowship helps make that future possible by giving physicians the opportunity to learn from leading experts in breast cancer care. Through advanced training, mentorship, and hands-on experience, fellows gain the skills needed to continue a legacy of compassionate, patient-centered care.
For Dr. Sarah Emerine, the fellowship has been a transformative chapter in her medical journey.
Sarah grew up in a small town, loved science, and found fulfillment in helping others. Medicine became the perfect way to combine those passions, but her journey into breast cancer care began with a deeply personal experience.
“When I was younger, my aunt was diagnosed with breast cancer after neglecting some screenings,” she said.
That experience opened Sarah’s eyes to the challenges many women face when it comes to breast health and access to care. It also inspired a commitment to helping others navigate those challenges.
“I realized a lot of women in my area were not receiving care when it came to breast health, and I could be providing something to women who really needed it,” Sarah shared. “This fellowship has shown me how amazing comprehensive breast cancer care can be. It’s so gratifying to be able to say, ‘I made a difference for somebody.’ The relationships I’m able to build with my patients have been one of my favorite parts of this experience.”
Throughout her fellowship year, Sarah worked alongside experts in the field, caring for patients and gaining invaluable experience. Programs like the Charis Cancer Fellowship help physicians develop the knowledge, skills, and compassion needed to support patients through every step of their cancer journey.
“Thank you for supporting the next generation of doctors,” Sarah remarked. “Medical training is demanding, and opportunities like this fellowship are invaluable. This experience has helped me grow professionally and personally, and it’s made me a better physician for my patients.”
When communities invest in education and training, the impact extends far beyond the classroom. Philanthropic support helps ensure that patients receive expert care, but it also ensures that our next generation of leaders are prepared to shape the future of cancer care.
Support for Atrium Health Levine Cancer education programs helps equip tomorrow’s physicians with the knowledge, compassion, and experience needed to care for patients and families when they need it most.