Feature a Fellow: June 2024

Name: Zachary Pardieck, MD

Institution: Rush University Medical Center and the Diamond Headache Clinic in Chicago, IL

Nominated by: Rima Dafer, MD, MPH, Interim Vice Chair of Education, Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center

From Dr. Dafer: “Zachary was nominated by residents as best fellow educator and by patients as top caring physician. From the first day of his fellowship, he proved to be passionate about headache medicine; his approach to headache practice can only be summarized by one word: talent! I cannot wait for him to join our practice as a junior attending.”

ABOUT DR. PARDIECK

How did you become interested in Headache Medicine?

I was inspired to train in Headache Medicine by my mother and grandfather, who have migraine and trigeminal neuralgia, respectively. I saw early in my life through them the challenges that we have in accessing timely care due to the shortage of headache & facial pain specialists. When I had exposure to the field as a student and resident, I found the connections we make with patients highly rewarding!

What year of training are you in?

PGY-5. I will be finishing a 1-year fellowship program in June 2024.

How have you utilized your AHS membership during training? What is your favorite member benefit?

I love the journal access to Headache® and enjoy keeping current with the latest research in the field!

Who has been your mentor or biggest inspiration within the field?

I’m constantly inspired by my patients who teach me every day about perseverance, resilience, & patience in the face of adversity. I consider myself very lucky to have had many wonderful mentors in Headache Medicine! A few mentors specific to Headache Medicine: Dr. Merle Diamond, Dr. Rima Dafer, & Dr. Malathi Rao (who have been fantastic mentors during my fellowship year), Dr. José Biller & Dr. Athena Kostidis (who helped support & teach me during residency, as well as find my way to Headache Medicine). I’m so grateful for them & all the wonderful mentors who have helped guide me!

Name a fun fact about yourself!

My favorite dessert is tiramisu (which might be somewhat connected to my love of coffee!).

Are you a program director interested in highlighting your Fellow? Complete a nomination form here!