Kristie Bobolis, MD, grew up surrounded by teachers and musicians, and nearly everyone (including herself) sang or played an instrument. But throughout high school, she found herself gravitating toward the health sciences rather than the humanities. “I always enjoyed learning science, particularly cell biology and physiology,” she recalls. With her family’s encouragement, she was able to pursue her dream of attending medical school.

Bobolis is now the medical director of the Risk Assessment Cancer Genetics, Lymphedema, and Breast Cancer Program at Sutter Roseville Medical Center and the current president of the National Consortium of Breast Centers. She’s also a member of numerous medical organizations, including the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the American Association for Cancer Research. Her decision to specialize in oncology originally emerged after losing a beloved aunt to breast cancer at a young age. “It was very challenging when my aunt developed breast cancer. It had an impact on the entire family,” Bobolis says. She also remains passionate about providing a more multidisciplinary approach to medical care, where everyone—including the oncologist, surgeon, radiologist, pathologist, nurse navigator, genetics practitioner, and clinical research associate—works as a team to guide patients through a difficult diagnosis for the best possible outcome. “It’s very rewarding to be able to take care of patients and help them to meet their goals of care.”  

Q&A:

What advice would you give to your younger self?
Do what you want to do in life, don’t be put off by those who tell you otherwise, and be sure to smell the roses along the way.

What comes to you naturally?
I have a good memory and am naturally curious about many things.

What’s your biggest pet peeve?
When my cat sits on my keyboard so I can’t get my work done.

What are you most proud of?
My two daughters—they’re smart, beautiful, and I admire the individuals they’ve grown to become. Also, creating the Breast Cancer Program and establishing the genetics and lymphedema programs at Sutter Roseville Medical Center, and becoming involved with the National Consortium of Breast Centers where I currently serve as president.

Favorites:

Favorite humanitarian cause?
Those that support the education of girls globally.

Author/writer
Jhumpa Lahiri

Escape
Playing the piano

Guilty pleasure
Ice cream

Local landmark
American River

Favorite memory
My big fat Greek wedding (to my wonderful husband, Chuck)

Movie
The Matrix  

Musician/band
Radiohead, Aretha Franklin, Queen, and Bon Iver

Place to buy a gift, locally
Lush

Do you know someone in the community who makes a difference or is particularly interesting that we should Get to Know? Email their name, where they live, and why they should be featured to [email protected].

By Amber Foster

Photos by DANTE FONTANA