Residents

First Year

Colin Bonnar, M.D.

Hometown: Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Canada
Medical School: Saba University School of Medicine
Undergraduate: Cape Breton University
Major: Biology and Psychology

Being from Nova Scotia, I wanted a program where I was close to the coast. But more importantly, I wanted a program where I felt at home. Once I interviewed at CMMC, I knew this was the place for me. The residents, faculty, and staff at CMMC are all fantastic. Since day one, the program has been very welcoming, and the faculty is very enthusiastic about teaching. Having a mother who is a family physician, family medicine was an easy residency choice for me, as family docs can have a major impact on their patients, patients’ families, and the surrounding community. It was clear that CMMC would allow me to be involved in the community and learn broad-spectrum medicine.

My goal for residency is to be well prepared for life as a family physician and to be able to handle any situation that comes through the door. This program has so much to offer from wilderness and international medicine to sports medicine, Ob/Gyn and even POCUS experience. I am so excited to be here, as it will prepare me to be a well-rounded family physician.

I wouldn’t have been able to get here without my friends and family’s unwavering support, especially my wife, Danielle, and of course, my mother. Outside of medicine, I am interested in hockey, running, Cross-fit, sailing, water sports, skiing/snowboarding and especially walking/hiking with our dog, Loki. Maine offers all of that and more. I am privileged to have the honor of serving the community of Lewiston and Auburn.

Eliza Foster, D.O.

Hometown: Raymond, Maine
Medical School: University of New England
Undergraduate: Elmira College
Major: Biochemistry

Born and raised close by in the town of Raymond, I grew up on a tree farm right here in the beautiful state of Maine. I graduated from Gray-New Gloucester High School and continued my education at Elmira College in New York. I had a blast the year between college and medical school working in the tasting room at Finger Lakes Distillery in New York. I also had a great adventure when my alma mater asked me to assist teaching a Marine and Island Ecology class on San Salvador Island in the Bahamas! I went to the University of New England for medical school and am very thankful for my education in osteopathic medicine. I felt blessed that for most of my clinical rotations I was located in Ellsworth, Maine, with quick access to Acadia National Park and MDI, I spent a majority of my free time hiking trails, exploring for hidden caves, and marveling at the rocky coast line.

The thing that most attracted me to CMMC was the kindness and friendly atmosphere of this residency program. The faculty and residents are sincere, approachable, and genuinely fun to spend time with. I knew that through the ups and downs of the resident life, there was no other group of people that I would be happier to work alongside and spend my time with.

In my free time I enjoy exploring National parks, hiking, canoeing, cycling, and basically anything outdoors! Every year I help my father with the family tradition of making our own homemade maple syrup. I also love drinking coffee to stay awake.

Anna Korkhin, M.D.

Matthew R. Levasseur, D.O.

Hometown: Lewiston, ME
Medical School: UNECOM
Undergraduate: University of New England
Major: Medical Biology; Minor: Mathematics

As the son of a mechanic and an accountant, I am the first healthcare provider in my family. I grew up in Central Maine, where the values of hard work and big aspirations were instilled by my working-class parents at a young age. Throughout my childhood and years in school, I developed a longing to contribute to society in a meaningful way. This has led me to a rewarding career in medicine.

After graduating from medical school, I spent five years as a physician and Captain in the U.S. Army Medical Corps, providing primary care to soldiers, veterans, and their dependents. The more time I have spent serving others here and around the world, the more my passion to address our society’s social injustice has intensified. The disadvantages of some populations to access the healthcare they desperately need burns at my conscience, and I am committed with a sense of urgency to provoke change.

Since most of my time has been spent caring for young adults, my experience has highlighted the needs of this demographic. With a particular focus on reproductive health and family planning, I will always provide a comfortable environment that encourages patients to broach any topic on their minds. Each of my patients can rely on me to provide the highest quality care, regardless of their age, gender, race, or belief system.

I did not choose CMMC’s Family Medicine Residency without careful consideration. CMMC has been part of my life since day one… literally. I was born on the third floor! Many years later, with the help of life-changing mentorships and friendships, it was where I discovered that I wanted to become a physician. I volunteered my time as a patient representative, which helped me to understand what patients expect from their medical team. During medical school, I completed most of my clinical clerkships at CMMC, allowing me to develop my skills in clinical assessment and provision of care to patients in my own hometown. It is truly an honor to continue cultivating my special connection with the CMMC Family by joining the residency program and serving the needs of this community.

My professional interests include reproductive health, family planning and contraception, healthcare policy and political activism, and cognitive bias of healthcare providers. Outside of medicine, I spend most of my time with my wife and our German Shepherd, enjoying life’s many simple pleasures.

Catherine Lok, D.O.

Hometown: Upper Sandusky, Ohio|
Medical School: A.T. Still University
Undergraduate: Miami University of Ohio
Major: Biology and Global Health

I believe in patients taking back the power in their health. People’s home diet and physical activity can treat many modern diseases. In our current healthcare climate, people have forgotten how to care for themselves and forgotten just how powerful they are.

During my interview conversations with staff and residents here, I was inspired by just how much the people here were of the similar mindset. I felt like the residency could be a place where I  could let my patients empower themselves in their health; a place where they could change their lifestyle to eliminate their modern diseases like diabetes and hypertension, not just “manage chronic disease” as is the current medical culture purports.

Here I’ve been able to continue to address “upstream” health factors such as addressing systemic health causes (such as racism and homelessness) and advocating for integrative medicine treatments where the patient is in charge (such as lifestyle changes, learning from our medicinal garden, OMM and food as medicine). Most importantly, people here simply have the mindset of patient-empowerment which shows in the small ways we interact with patients everyday.

Interests: public health, integrative medicine, social justice, Tango, dance, yoga, meditation, flying, martial arts, and documentaries

Issues I care about: healthcare systems in America, human trafficking, sexual assault, fair trade, juvenile justice systems, mental health, and the pandemic of loneliness

Emily Nguyen, M.D.

Hometown: Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
Medical School: Trinity College Dublin
Undergraduate: Bachelor of Science; Master of Science
Major: Neuroscience; Physiotherapy

As the daughter of Vietnamese refugees, I grew up influenced by their enduring tenacity through poverty, social isolation and cultural barriers as they resettled in Canada. Most significant were their challenges to medical literacy and access to healthcare. Upon reflection of my own upbringing, I realized that even within my own community in Nova Scotia, being a minority and living in a lower socioeconomic area often leads to health inequities. These experiences motivated me to be an active part of the solution and pursue a career in medicine.

In medical school, I continued to learn about how social and racial inequality contributes to health disparities and how much work still needs to be done to improve healthcare access for all. With a large international community at Trinity College Dublin, I had the opportunity to work with healthcare professionals from around the world and developed a deeper understanding of the health challenges faced both in Ireland and abroad. Learning about the Irish abortion referendum and violations to reproductive health rights prompted me to become a member of Medical Students for Choice, advocating for bodily autonomy and safe access to abortion. These unique experiences empowered me to be a better health advocate and solidified the idea that together we can use our voices for positive change.

I chose CMMC because of their commitment to community, dedication to improvement and supportive learning environment. My philosophy of medicine is rooted in informed choice and equality, and my goal is that all my clients feel supported and empowered to make the choices that are right for them.

As a Nova Scotian. I have felt very at home here in Maine. The proximity to the ocean, the love of lobster and the beautiful outdoors and hiking opportunities has made my transition to the US a welcoming experience. Things that bring me joy – art, drawing or painting, playing the piano.

James Poulin, M.D.

Matthew Rausch, D.O.

Hometown: Buffalo, MN
Medical School: University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate: University of Wisconsin – River Falls
Major: Biomedical Science

I had no intentions of going into medicine until well into my years as an undergrad.  All my time was dedicated too busy, messy art studios working to develop my skills in glass and ceramic art.  For a number of reasons, my attention turned to the sciences and eventually medicine.  I spent three and half years working as an EMT in rural and urban emergency medicine before moving to Maine for medical school in 2016.  In that time I also married my wife, Sarah, we gradually developed a menagerie of pets and traveled as much as we were able to.  We just bought a house in Gray, ME and can’t wait to continue exploring Maine and beyond.

The feeling I got during my interview at CMMC was second to none.  The sense of support and community here felt truly unique and I was immediately comfortable with everyone I met.  Beyond that, I hope to practice medicine beyond residency in an environment that resembles the culture that exists at CMMC and in central Maine.  There is a true appreciation here for how modern, evidenced-based medicine can be woven with traditional medical approaches, of which I hope learn more of and adapt into my own practice.

I have always enjoyed being outdoors and exploring activities that draw me into those spaces.  I have been camping, hiking and snowboarding since I can remember and get out to the woods and mountains as often as possible.  Having a creative outlet has been key to maintaining a sense of self and sanity throughout my life and I love delving into this through music, woodworking and ceramics.  I really have more hobbies than I know what to do with, but can’t get enough of trying things that are entirely foreign to me.

Second Year

Jeffrey S. Badillo, M.D.

Hometown: Leominster Massachusetts
Medical School: St. George’s University
Undergraduate: Southern Adventist University
Major: Psychology/animal behavior

I was fortunate enough to grow up in Massachusetts routing for the Red Sox, Patriots and Celtics. During my summers I would head to Weld, Maine to participate in summer camp activities. I learned to love Maine enough that I decided to attend Pine Tree Academy in Freeport for high school. I have been blessed with opportunities to travel the world and because of these experiences I can truthfully say there is no place like Maine! When I finished high school I attended undergrad in Tennessee.

After graduation, I taught for a couple of years and then decided to spend some time volunteering in Africa. It was there I decided it was time to go back to school and study medicine.I chose CMMC Lewiston because it is the only program in the United States (that I am aware of) where I can train in full spectrum family medicine and wilderness medicine at the same time. Because of my history in Maine and the many close friends I have here, it was an obvious and easy choice for me.In addition to traveling, I enjoy most outdoor activities such as backpacking, climbing, cross country skiing, kayaking, and scuba diving. I also find team sports a great way to get exercise and have some fun and beach volleyball has claimed a fair amount of my time in the past.

Ian J. Corbett, D.O.

Hometown: Portland, ME
Medical School:University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate: University of New England
Major: Biology

I did not decide to go to medical school until the latter half of my four years of college. In fact, I vacillated between many potential career paths before finally choosing medicine. I chose to become a physician because of the uniqueness of the responsibilities and relationships that come with the profession. My experiences with seriously ill patients as a medical student focused my attention on preventative medicine. I am excited to start my career at Central Maine Medical Center and hope to help my patients meet their healthcare goals.My goal has long been to practice family medicine in Maine.

After experiencing the closeness and supportiveness of the CMMC residency family during a rotation I did here as a medical student, I knew I found the right program. I so am grateful to be part of such a great group of people.My professional interests include preventative medicine, chronic disease management, and osteopathic manipulative medicine. Outside of medicine, I enjoy exercising, spending time with family and friends, and honing my skillset as a burgeoning fly fisherman.

Cecilia V. Davies, M.D.

Hometown: Fort Collins, Colorado
Medical School: Jagiellonian University Medical College
Undergraduate: Colorado State University (CSU)
Major: Biochemistry

I was born and raised in Colorado. After my undergraduate studies at CSU I moved to Italy to spend more time with my mother’s side of the family, and it was there that I discovered the English medical program at Jagiellonian University (UJ) in Krakow, Poland. Studying in this beautiful medieval city was a wonderful opportunity. When I was not studying or in the hospital, I got to explore many European countries and learn about the diverse and unique cultures, languages and food.I was already fond of New England as I spent many childhood summers at my grandparents’ cottage on Buzzard’s Bay in Massachusetts. I immediately fell in love with Maine’s sprawling forests and endless coastlines.

The doctors and residents at CMMC were all very friendly and welcoming, and I felt that I could work well in this environment. I am excited for the next step in my medical training at CMMC!As any good Colorado native and most of Maine’s residents — all outdoor things, like skiing, climbing, and hiking.

Dana E. Kennedy, M.D.

Hometown: Toronto, Canada
Medical School: University of Limerick
Undergraduate: University of Waterloo
Major: Biomedical Science

I’ve been working towards a career as a doctor for as long as I can remember, and although the path has not always been straight, I’ve found that the curves are where you learn the most and make the best memories.All of my experiences over the last decade, whether studying, volunteering, teaching, research etc. … have reinforced that this is the right career choice for me. I am still open minded about the specifics of my future, but I know that the continuity of holistic care and the education and advocacy role that a career as a family doctor includes, in addition to the clinical side, appeals to me.When I accepted the offer to study medicine in Ireland, I can say in retrospect that I did not realize what I signed on for. When you are pushed outside your comfort zone, it’s amazing how much you can adapt and grow. I’m excited to move to Lewiston and continue the journey!

From the first moment I met residents during my interview, I knew CMMC would be an amazing fit for me. From the information I had prior to the interview, I was already impressed with the broad scope of the training and the many opportunities to individualize your residency based on personal interests, but what really resonated with me when I was actually there was the atmosphere of community, teamwork and support.Beyond the program, I am very excited about the outdoor lifestyle that seems prevalent in Maine. After four years in Ireland, I cannot wait for mountains, beaches and proper seasons. In my spare time, I enjoy baking (both doing it and eating the results), yoga, running, hiking, skiing and any other activity that gets me outdoors. I am also a huge cat person, and am desperately hoping to find a pet friendly residence in Maine.

Anthony M. Pastore, D.O.

Hometown: Scarborough, ME
Medical School: UNECOM
Undergraduate: UMaine
Major: Biology

I’m a bit of a homebody. Growing up in Southern Maine, my educational path has taken me through Orono, Biddeford and Portland before arriving in Lewiston. The route to Central Maine has been slightly untraditional, but has resulted in some invaluable experiences that I’m hoping will help me become a better physician. I couldn’t have gotten here without the support of my incredible sister, mother and father. As a lifelong Mainer, I’m thrilled for the opportunity to begin my clinical practice in Lewiston, and hope to be able to help care for this community for a long time.

Why CMMC Lewiston Track – It’s absolutely because of the people. Weeks before starting medical school, I was contacted by the then Behavioral Scientist at CMMC about a geriatrics project I was participating on. From that first interaction to my most recent, everybody that I’ve had the opportunity to interact with here, from the admin, to faculty, co-residents and patients, have been outstanding. We have a great team, and I’m excited to add what I can to an exceptional culture.It’s still early days in medical career, but at this point my professional interests include: public health, geriatrics, and palliative care.

When I’m not at the hospital, I’m looking forward to the next trail run with my dog, Baxter, or trying to find a local pickup basketball or soccer game.

Third Year

Patricia A. Collins, D.O.

Hometown: Andover, MA
Medical School: UNECOM
Undergraduate: University of Connecticut
Major: Psychology

I grew up in Massachusetts, just north of Boston and have been living in Maine for the past 6 years. After graduating from the University of Connecticut, I worked in a lab doing cardiovascular research at Massachusetts General Hospital. After spending too many hours a day sitting in a dark room, talking to zebrafish, I realized that bench research wasn’t the path for me and decided to pursue a career in medicine. I moved to Maine to study at University of New England and haven’t wanted to leave Maine since. During medical school, I returned to campus during my clinical years to work as a teaching fellow, teaching anatomy, clinical skills, and OMT to first and second year students.

I am excited to be continuing my training at Central Maine Medical Center as I have been living in Maine for the past 6 years and hope to continue practicing medicine here. I hope to develop a full-spectrum practice including obstetrics and a focus on sexual/reproductive health.

Outside of medicine, I like to go hiking, biking, and running when the seasons and weather allows. I enjoy trying new restaurants and cooking. However, my favorite hobby over the past 2 years has been finding any activity I can to entertain/exercise my dog.

John M. Cooper III, D.O.

Hometown: Madison, WI
Medical School: UNECOM
Undergraduate: Brown University
Major: Double Major Classics/Russian Literature

I’m lucky to have been able to have two very different careers in my life. I started working in television news overseas when I was 19, did local news, network news and documentary production in New England, New York, and the Washington, DC area. When I was in my 40s I realized I needed a change. Out of all the other jobs I was able to see during my first career as a cameraman, I was drawn to the challenge and the satisfaction of medicine. This change has been harder and more satisfying than I imagined, and Im excited to see what comes next.I wanted to train in a community hospital that offers a strong education, in a supportive, friendly atmosphere. CMMC fits the bill in both.

I like the usual stuff – traveling, hiking, cross country skiing, camping and sea kayaking.

Kevin A. DeGroot, D.O.

Hometown: Painesville, Ohio
Medical School: Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate: College of Wooster
Major: Biology

I am originally from Painesville, Ohio, which is a small town just outside of Cleveland. My interest in clinical medicine began as a teenager when several people close to me became unexpectedly ill. These experiences fundamentally shaped how I approach patient care and taught me that a person is far more than a disease process, but rather a unique individual composed of mind, body, spirit, and community. These experiences also taught me the importance of lifestyle and personal wellness as a means to prevent and treat disease.I attended the College of Wooster for my undergraduate training, where I majored in biology and conducted research on antibiotic resistance in bacteria. My time at Wooster instilled in me a passion for both the life sciences and humanities. During college, I took numerous classes on the human condition, which have been invaluable in my medical training. I ultimately acquired my medical education at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. In medical school, I developed a passion for Osteopathic principle and practices. Osteopathy is a holistic clinical philosophy that recognizes that the greatest resource the physician has is the patients own ability to heal.

Health is far more than being free of disease, but rather is about reaching your full potential in the dimensions of mind, body, and spirit. My objective is always to support my patients inherent ability to heal.While in medical school, I completed a pre-doctorate fellowship in Osteopathic manual medicine (OMM), which added an additional year to my training. OMM is a gentle form of hands on treatment that helps improve movement and balance in your body. This helps to decrease pain and optimize function. OMM is one of the ways I am able to support your healing ability. In addition to this, I have clinical interests in lifestyle medicine and integrative wellness, which are additional tools I am able to use to help my patients. Regardless of whether I am seeing you for high blood pressure, diabetes, or low back pain, my goal is to partner with you to help you reach your ideal health. In doing so, we are able to keep the amount of medications and invasive procedures to a minimum. I consider it a great privilege to serve you and the Lewiston/Auburn community.

Jessica A. Lucas, D.O.

Hometown: Augusta, Maine
Medical School: University of New England
Undergraduate: Simmons College
Major: Biochemistry with a focus in Physics

I am originally from and grew up in Augusta, Maine. I went away to Boston to attend Simmons College but knew that I wanted to come home to Maine for Medical School to be close to my very large family.I have always felt a strong pull toward medicine. I believe Physicians have a responsibility in supporting the health of their community and this is what shaped my interest in Primary Care Medicine. Throughout my studies, I have learned critically important lesson of taking into account emotional, cultural, and spiritual history as a way of more fully understanding physical health and illness.My attraction to Family Medicine is the excitement and pride I feel about advocating for the health and well-being of the community I serve.

As a Maine native, I feel extremely grateful to be at the Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency to have the opportunity to try to give back to a community that has taught me so much, and made me who I am today. As a Physician, I hope to dedicate myself to serving the health needs of my community while also committing time to further developing research and teaching skills.I also have an interest in Sports Medicine and have been witness to inspiring patient success stories highlighting the value/power of diet and exercise to overall health. My entire life, I have always been involved in and extremely interested in sports. Right from the start, my parents instilled in me the importance of a life of health, including the participation in physical activity. I am very passionate about the benefits of exercise and the participation in daily physical activity and feel having such broad interests in and participating in several sports makes me knowledgeable and approachable to a diverse population.

Outside of medicine, my husband and I like to spend most of our free time outdoors being active. Whether it’s boating at the lakes/oceans, hiking the mountains, and cycling/running in the summer or nordic/alpine skiing and fat biking in the winter we are outdoor people. With a very big family in Maine there is always plenty to do!

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Marie-Alexandria Tremis, M.D.

Hometown: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Medical School: American University of the Caribbean
Undergraduate: McGill University
Major: Anatomy & Cell Biology

Life is what happens to you when you’re busy making other plans. John Lennon

From my hometown to my various experiences abroad, I have witnessed time and time again how important the physician-patient relationship can be to care compliance. To date, I have dedicated my life to people, serving my community to the best of my ability. That ability has evolved significantly over time, but my goal has remained constant, ultimately leading to a career in medicine. My path has been less than traditional but with every job, every volunteer experience, and every research opportunity I have embarked on, I have always tried to stay true to my purpose. The communities I have partnered with face many socioeconomic disparities while dealing with a myriad of health issues, largely due to lack of access and resources. Throughout, I have found that building trust with patients via effective communication and teamwork is the key to being the best advocate for those who need it most.

Out of all the various fields, I feel that family medicine best embodies my commitment to people because of its emphasis on the big picture. CMMCs residency program particularly resonated with me due to the importance they place on family. I long to discover the intricacies of my patients narratives, while at the same time guiding and supporting them through both health and illness. There is often so much more to a persons life story than meets the eye, and I hope to be a part of that journey alongside them.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy traveling, cooking and spending as much time outdoors as possible. When I grow up, I hope to be a professional soccer player. My family and friends mean the world to me and I am lucky to have their constant support no matter where I live in the world. I consider the beach my second home and I look forward to many more summers in Maine.

Rural Track Residents

Second  Year

Christopher M. Caracciolo, M.D.

Hometown: New Haven, CT
Medical School: Netter SOM at Quinnipiac University
Undergraduate: Colgate University
Major: History
I was drawn to Lewiston because I heard it was the Paris of Northern New England. I chose CCMC for residency because it is a place where I can learn holistic primary care. Barely two months into intern year and I have rounded in the ICU, appreciated didactics on a stunningly gorgeous herbal medicine farm, responded to a couple cardiac arrests, practiced my osteopathic manipulation skills, and begun to form relationships with the patients I feel privileged to see in my outpatient clinic.Working with an undeserved community is a primary ambition of my career. Most days, I feel inspired by the medical and social challenges of the vulnerable and medically complex population we serve. The scope and depth of practice available to primary care physicians in Lewsiton far exceeds that in my native Connecticut. Integrative medicine is a passion of mine and I am thankful that our curriculum dedicates significant time to both integrative medicine and osteopathic medicine, fostering a culture of holistic primary care.

I am settling in quite well to my new home. I enjoy adventures: hiking, camping kayaking, concerts, a long weekend it Quebec; but more often than not you will find me biking around town, tending the garden, strumming a guitar or playing water fetch with my water dog, Maya.

Isabella D. Taylor, D.O.

Hometown: Spokane, WA
Medical School: Pacific Northwest University
Undergraduate: Johns Hopkins University
Major: Molecular and Cellular Biology and East Asian Studies

Growing up, I always had fondness for science and asking “why?” That curiosity led me to Baltimore where I had the opportunity to work in a pediatric neuro-oncology lab studying molecular pathways and running animal-based therapy testing. After two gap years, I returned to my home state of Washington to complete my medical degree and develop my passion for primary care.I have always wanted to work in a field where I can get to know my patients and be part of their journey. Working between Lewiston and Rumford allows me the opportunity to become a well-rounded physician, with the challenge of working with a different set of resources.

I’m also looking forward to working with a population that enjoys the same things I do—the outdoors, animals, and a community where I hope to raise my future family.  During my free time I like to get outside, spend time with my husband and dog, and cook and eat any and all foods.

Third  Year

Myriam Jolicoeur, M.D.

Hometown: Quebec City, Canada
Medical School: Saint James School of Medicine
Undergraduate: Bachelor of Business Administration
Major: MarketingI am originally from Quebec City, Canada, not too far from Maine. After graduating from a bachelor in business administration, I started working for a pharmaceutical company. I always had a strong interest in medicine and chose this field because it put me in good proximity with the medical world. After four years, I made the biggest decision of my life and decided to pursue medical school. Although very challenging, I never regretted it. Caring for my patients on a long term basis and creating trusting relationships with them is my goal and my main motivation as a primary care physician.I had the chance to do an elective rotation at CMMC last summer and instantly fell in love with the place, the program and the people. What struck me the most was how friendly, approachable and dedicated faculty and residents are. This learning environment is exactly what I was looking for. As a family physician, a full spectrum practice is what attracts me the most. The rural track allows for an amazing exposure and I am really excited to be part of this program.Outside of medicine, I try to spend as much time as possible with family and friends.  My husband and I pretty much enjoy any outdoor activity Maine has to offer. I am really looking forward to keep on discovering new hiking trails, beaches, ski resorts, etc.