Brooke Hazen started in the VUMC Neurology Department in January 2024 and hasn’t looked back. She originally trained as an opera singer, but when her path led to medicine, she pursued it with the same zeal she brought to music. Brooke’s regular meditation practice helps her stay focused on the compassion essential for patient care. While she no longer performs in public often, you can catch her singing “carpool karaoke” on social media.

Dr. Mitchell Gigandet served four years in the Marines in Afghanistan prior to returning to school to pursue a medical career. While he didn’t initially seek out sleep medicine, the experience of helping his patients dramatically improve their quality of life has made it a rewarding specialty. In his free time, Dr. Gigandet and his wife keep a busy concert schedule and enjoy Nashville’s scrumptious restaurant scene.

Dr. Rachel Green grew up in Dallas, Texas, but spent much of her childhood traveling around the world. Philosophical conversations around the dinner table led to her interest in the brain and ultimately neurology. The supportive environment she has found at VUMC has helped her grow as a physician while also caring for her young family. When she’s not working, you’ll find Dr. Green spending time with her family at one of Nashville’s many scenic parks.

Erin Bryan’s path to medicine started at a young age; her natural personality as a caretaker, coupled with her passion for working with the elderly, has made her a natural fit as Physician Assistant in the Movement Disorders division. She enjoys the many learning opportunities that accompany her role caring for patients with Parkinson’s disease and Tourette Syndrome. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her young daughter and checking out breweries with her husband.

Dr. Olivia Gruder’s experience at a pre-med summer camp at Vanderbilt in high school came full circle in August 2023 when she joined faculty as a Neuroimmunology and General Neurology attending. The changing field of MS, in which treatment options are growing rapidly, keeps her motivated, as well as witnessing the resilience of her patients. In her free time, Dr. Gruder enjoys running, exploring East Nashville, and going on adventures with her family.

Saturday, Oct. 11, 20259 a.m. to 1 p.m.Embassy Suites by Hilton Cool Springs820 Crescent Centre DriveFranklin, Tenn.The VUMC Department of Neurology and Multiple Sclerosis Center is offering a free educational event for individuals living with MS, their caregivers, and their loved ones. Registration is required to attend either in person or virtually.