James Ryan Shea, MD

Margaret W. Leigh, MD, situated in Chapel Hill, NC, stands as a vital component of the UNC Health network, catering to the diverse healthcare needs of the local population. Whether through hospitals, clinics, or specialized facilities, this establishment prioritizes individualized patient care across various medical fields, from primary and urgent care to specialized medical interventions. With a strong dedication to education and advancement, Margaret W. Leigh, MD, often collaborates closely with the UNC School of Medicine, fostering medical research and training opportunities for the next generation of healthcare professionals. Their overarching goal revolves around enhancing wellness initiatives and ensuring equitable access to top-tier healthcare services, all while upholding the core values of compassion, integrity, and excellence that define the UNC Health ethos. Generated using this brand's available information

I am a self-proclaimed "pharmacology phanatic." I am one of only a handful of pediatric hematologist-oncologists who is also board certified in Clinical Pharmacology. My passion for pharmacology has led me to a career in developmental therapeutics focused on seeking better, less-toxic treatments for children with childhood cancer. I lead UNC's participation in the Sunshine Project, an early phase clinical trials network for children with cancer and serve as a sub-principal investigator for the group. Working with Drs. Alexander and Gold, I have helped UNC secure a membership in the New Approaches to Neuroblastoma Therapy (NANT) Network and am looking forward to providing more treatment options and clinical trials opportunities to children who are battling recurrent and refractory cancers. My other passion is education.

Growing up, my father was a cardiovascular surgeon in Brazil, and from an early age, I was inspired by his passion for his work. Despite the long hours and weekend shifts, I never once saw him frustrated or complaining. He always approached his work with enthusiasm, often sharing fascinating stories about patient care or breakthroughs in research at the dinner table. I also witnessed firsthand the deep appreciation his patients had for the care he provided. The idea that you could make such a significant, positive impact on someone's life through your work was incredibly motivating to me. This early exposure to the profound role of a physician inspired me to pursue a career where I could dedicate myself to improving the lives of others. I believe that patients should be treated with the same care and respect as if they were close family members. As a surgeon, it is an incredible honor to be entrusted with your health, and I take that responsibility very seriously. My commitment is to always put forth my best effort, ensuring that every procedure is performed with precision and dedication. I strive to achieve the best possible outcome, working relentlessly to improve your quality of life and help you return to the activities and experiences you value most. To me, patient care goes beyond just the surgery—it’s about building trust, offering support, and being an advocate for your well-being every step of the way. My goal is to provide not only excellent surgical outcomes but also a sense of reassurance and partnership in your journey toward healing. When I am not at work, I love being outdoors—whether it's going for a run, hiking, or spending time at the beach with my family. Staying active is important to me, and I enjoy sports of all kinds. I've been passionate about tennis since I was a kid, and it’s still a favorite way for me to unwind. And, of course, being Brazilian, I have a deep love for soccer as well.