Class of 2028
Atiyeh Afjei, MD
Undergraduate: Tehran University
Masters: Lund University
Medical School: American University of the Caribbean
I was born and raised in Tehran, Iran, and my journey has taken me across four countries and twelve cities over the past twelve years, with visits to more than ten others. Experiencing different cultures and communities has shaped my perspective and given me a deep appreciation for diverse cultures, new experiences, and connecting with people from all backgrounds.
When choosing a residency program, THMEP stood out as my top choice because of its supportive culture, diverse patient population, and strong commitment to academic and career development. The opportunity to train in a program that emphasizes both excellence in patient care and resident support made it the perfect fit for me.
I am excited to begin this next chapter in Tucson, a city with endless opportunities for exploration. Outside of medicine, I enjoy driving, capturing sky photography, and connecting with people from all walks of life. I look forward to the experiences ahead and growing both professionally and personally.
Thaddeus Derbyshire, DO
Undergraduate: Arizona State University, AZ
Medical School: Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dothan, AL
I was born in Tucson and have spent most of my life in Arizona, though I have also lived in different parts of the country, including Iowa, Alabama, Vermont, and Pennsylvania. In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis with my wife, who has been adventuring with me for fifteen years now. Despite having lived in various regions of the country, there is no doubt that the Southwest (specifically the Sonoran Desert) holds a special place in our hearts.
I knew THMEP was the ideal residency program for me because of my experience during my third year. Coming into medical school, I had initially planned on pursuing a different type of residency program, but after experiencing the benefits of training in a smaller program where attendings truly get to know you, it was hard to ignore how valuable that environment is. I also appreciate how easy it is to get to know your senior residents before working with them, given the program’s smaller size.
My subspecialty interest is Oncology, though I am also interested in both Hospital and Outpatient Medicine.
Mercy Gohil, MD
Undergraduate: Surat Municipal Institute of Medical Education & Research, India
Medical School: Surat Municipal Institute of Medical Education & Research, India
Masters: University of Louisville, KY
I was born and raised in Surat, a vibrant city in the western part of India. I completed my medical education there and practiced as a general practitioner for three years. In 2021, I moved to the U.S. to pursue a Master of Health Administration at the University of Louisville, driven by a passion to learn from advanced healthcare systems and expand my global perspective.
My heart has always been in pediatrics, where I find deep purpose in supporting children and their families during crucial stages of growth and development. I am thrilled to join the TMC Pediatric Residency Program—my top choice. From my very first conversation with the program’s leadership and residents, I felt a strong sense of connection and community. I’m confident that the program’s diverse patient population, emphasis on mentorship, and commitment to community engagement will shape me into a well-rounded and culturally competent pediatrician.
Outside of medicine, I’m a proud mother who loves spending time with my husband and son. I enjoy exploring beaches, playing pickleball, and trying new recipes. I’m also looking forward to calling Tucson home—with its warm climate, rich culture, and many opportunities for adventure.
Nelly Prodanova, MD
Undergraduate: Vanderbilt University, TN
Medical School: Medical University, Plovdiv Faculty of Medicine, Bulgaria
Hi! I was born in Bulgaria and moved to Costa Mesa, California when I was four years old. My two big dreams growing up were to become the number one tennis player in the world and to be a “doctor for kids.” I reached the #2 ranking in the nation in junior tennis and am now proudly pursuing my journey of becoming a pediatrician!
After completing my undergraduate studies at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee I returned to my home country of Bulgaria to go to medical school—a meaningful full-circle experience.
I’m thrilled to be continuing my training at THMEP, where the program’s strong, family-like environment and commitment to serving a diverse pediatric population truly resonates with me. The warm weather, vibrant food culture, and beautiful scenery are added bonuses!
In my free time, I love being outdoors with my husband and our two-year-old daughter. I’m a proud Disney and Christmas enthusiast and cherish every moment spent with my family.
Iqra Saeed, MD
Undergraduate: Khyber Girls Medical College, Pakistan
Medical School: Khyber Girls Medical College, Pakistan
Though Punjabi by heritage, I was born and raised in Peshawar, one of South Asia’s oldest living cities, well known for its deep-rooted hospitality. Growing up in such a diverse environment exposed me to different languages and traditions, making cultural competence a cornerstone of my identity. As the eldest of five siblings, I developed a natural affinity for children. After graduating from medical school, I moved to the U.S. with my husband. Since moving to the U.S., Arizona is where I’ve stayed the longest, and it truly feels like home now.
TMC was my top choice for residency due to its well-established reputation for excellence in medical education and training. I was attracted to the institution’s genuine commitment to resident well-being reflected in its thoughtful initiatives and program-specific activities. TMC’s robust community outreach programs further set it apart, offering residents the opportunity to directly impact and serve diverse populations. I am excited to build on this experience by learning Spanish through El Rio’s language offerings and continuing my work with underserved communities. With abundant hiking trails, year-round sunshine, and the cost of living that makes family life more manageable, I am excited to call this dynamic, welcoming city home.
In my spare time, I enjoy cooking, traveling, and practicing calligraphy. Fun fact: I also love collecting pencils!
Nelmary Teresen Taylor, MD
Undergraduate: Universidad de Carabobo, Venezuela
Medical School: Universidad de Carabobo, Venezuela
I was born in Valencia, Venezuela. I completed my undergraduate studies at Universidad de Carabobo and earned my medical degree from Universidad de Carabobo. Becoming the first physician in my family has been one of the most meaningful accomplishments of my life, and I’m honored to now be continuing this journey at THMEP.
What excites me most about residency at THMEP is the strong sense of community, the dedication to excellence in patient care, and the opportunity to learn in a diverse and supportive environment. I’m also thrilled to train in Tucson, a city full of culture, beauty, and sunshine. The warm weather, stunning desert landscapes, and vibrant local food scene are just a few of the many things I love about living here.
Outside of medicine, I love going to the gym and taking spinning classes, especially when there’s reggaeton playing! I also enjoy traveling and discovering new restaurants. Exploring new places and flavors is one of my favorite ways to recharge and stay inspired.
I’m incredibly grateful to be part of the THMEP family, and I’m looking forward to growing both personally and professionally while serving the Tucson community.
