coffee talk

A sit-down chat with Dr . Swetha Gujja of Southern Oncology Specialists

I love you a latte! “I have faced the cancer battle myself with a few family members, so I feel like I have a personal perspective of the challenges my patients face. I always tell them to prepare for the worst but hope for the best. We celebrate victories together and grieve when there is loss … they are family!”

Compassion & Gratitude. “Don’t let anyone make you believe that the field of oncology is depressing—it is much more gratifying than you might think. The best part is being able to make a difference in our patients’ lives … my goal each day is to remain focused, passionate, and grateful.”

Our first cup. “I grew up in a city in India where I attended the top medical school in the state. After I got married, we moved to the United States and I finished my fellowship in Little Rock, Arkansas, after which we found, and fell in love with, Lake Norman. Everything here is appealing and top notch: the weather, the people, the schools, the proximity to the beach and mountains. It is really ideal.” Because life is not always a simple cup o’ joe. “I love my career, but it involves some sacrifices and burnout is inevitable. Self-care is essential and I accomplish that with a healthy diet, exercise, and taking “Me” time to relax. And having the support of my husband who helps out a great deal around the house. Our two children, who are 7 and 4, provide me with so much love and comfort as well … I know how blessed I am at the end of the day.” Raindrops on roses ... “Some of my favorite things? The organizing tool/app Trello helps me stay organized with my projects and my team … my comfort food is Biryani, an Indian rice dish, and my favorite places I’ve traveled to are Mauritius and Punta Cana. But topping my list are the simple things in life … we all need to be grateful for what we have and appreciate the little comforts … like the joy found in a warm cup of tea in the morning, listening to the birds sing and the children laugh, watching the glorious sunrise, and then watch the sun tuck itself in for the night … all with a heart full of gratitude.” "My goal each day is to remain focused, passionate, and grateful."