We are pleased to present the next in our weekly series introducing you to Internal Medicine’s Advanced Practice Providers. In addition to sharing information about where they work in the department, we asked them each to tell us a little bit about their “Why” (the sustaining pull for their work) and what relaxes them. (Read previous weeks’ installments.)

Karen Ajram, PA-C
Hematology, Oncology and Blood & Marrow Transplantation

Service: Adult Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy

Years with Internal Medicine: 33

Hometown: Originally from Dubuque but lived in Cedar Rapids for the past 34 years.

My “WHY”: Cancer patients have a certain need for compassion and understanding at this juncture in their life. I feel proud and humbled that I can provide them with knowledge, caring and often just a hand to hold onto and an ear that will listen to their fears and struggles.

What Relaxes Me: Exercise, cooking, and spending time with family.

Karen’s clinical expertise and compassionate care has touched the lives of many patients around the state of Iowa. She is a true expert at caring for patients with post-transplant complications and complex diseases, and her contribution to our team is truly invaluable.

– – Lauren M. Ringe, ARNP, DNP