Showalter, Marcy R PA

About Tommi Andersen As early as high school, Tommi Andersen, PA, knew she wanted a career in medicine. After exposure to various health professions, she fell in love with the role of the PA, specifically. “I found a university that offers both a bachelor’s as well as master’s degree in physician assistant studies, and I’ve looked forward to offering care as a PA ever since,” she says. Tommi studied at University of Saint Francis, Fort Wayne, IN, where she earned her undergraduate degree in Pre-Physician Assistant Biology and her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (Surgical Track). Her role is to act as the surgeon’s first assist during operations involving the heart, lungs or chest. “I also provide care through assessment and treatment before and after the operations by working in tandem with the surgeons and other PAs,” she says. “It’s amazing to play a part in such important and often life-saving operations.” In working with patients, Tommi says she is passionate about explaining the surgical process, while answering their questions or tending to concerns both before and after a procedure. She sees one of the most important parts of the patient care she provides to be taking time to explain the logic behind decisions and to answer questions, establishing a mutual confidence and understanding. “I want my patients to feel comfortable sharing their questions or concerns with me. One of the most reverential parts of medicine is the opportunity to share knowledge or guidance,” Tommi says. “My goal is to offer each patient a level of care that would be suitable for my closest loved ones.” In her own words… Who is or was the most influential people/role models in your life? My parents, who taught me to live a life that I can be proud of, full of gratitude and experiences. What was your first job growing up? What do you remember about it? I worked at an ice cream shop during high school. I remember working with my friends and trying all the flavors when business was slow. What is your favorite food? Movie? Favorite foods: pistachio ice cream Favorite movie: It’s a Wonderful Life What was your best/worst subjects in school growing up? Best: science Worst: math If you could sit down to dinner with anyone (alive or deceased) who would it be and why? I would sit down with my great grandfather, an inventor who grew up in Denmark, so that he could tell me about his life. In addition to medicine, what are you passionate about? I’m passionate about art, history, travel and exercise. What are your hobbies, interests? Kickboxing, painting, running, reading, baking, and spending time with family and friends. Do you have pets? I have two dogs, an Australian shepherd named Fletcher and a rescue named Mowgli. What is something most people don’t know about you? I was valedictorian of the University of Saint Francis class of 2021.

About Dr. Wani Dr. Adil S. Wani’s father, uncle and late grandfather were all physicians, but it wasn’t until high school that Dr. Wani decided on a career in medicine. “It was fascinating to me how the human body maintains homeostasis and small changes in this balance can lead to an illness. Preventing these small changes and improving an individual’s well-being would further lead to uplifting society. This has been my ultimate goal.” While there were many reasons to join the team, Dr. Wani chose Beacon because he shares our mission and values. “Beacon and I share the same goal: To enhance the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being of communities.” As an interventional cardiologist, Dr. Wani can deliver on that. “I treat individuals suffering from heart disorders. I consider the heart to be the center of the body. Any disturbance in the heart can cause a significant impact on one’s health. Prevention and treatment of a disease in such a vital organ and its impact on well-being led me to choose this specialty.” Dr. Wani received his medical degree from the Government Medical College in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India. He completed his residency at the Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He completed his Cardiology Fellowship and was the Chief Fellow at Advocate Aurora Health Care in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Though interventional cardiology is his specialty, Dr. Wani has another treatment strategy he uses with all patients. “Patients have taught me the power of listening. Listening to someone with undivided attention is one of the most profound healings one can provide another.” And because he listens to his patients, Dr. Wani can keep the focus of his work where it matters: his patients. “My philosophy is to keep my treatment plan patient-centered, simple and thorough.” In his own words… Who is or was the most influential person/role model in your life? My late grandfather. What was your first job growing up? What do you remember about it? I have volunteered in my community growing up, and I remember it being satisfying. If you could sit down to dinner with anyone (alive or deceased) who would it be and why? My wife, she is alive, and I love our dinner time because she knows everything! In addition to medicine, what are you passionate about? What are your hobbies, interests? I love traveling to new places. I enjoy hiking, sight-seeing, long endless drives, star gazing on a clear dark night and trying out different cuisines. I also enjoy working out. What is something most people don’t know about you? I am not a big fan of public speaking!