A Season of Gratitude
Last Updated: December 2, 2025
For this Giving Tuesday episode, Ginger talks with Chuck Akanegbu, PharmD, a PGY1 resident and longtime NCODA PSO leader whose involvement in the student community led to something bigger than he ever expected — donating stem cells through the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP).
Chuck reflects on how the PSO shaped his interest in oncology, what leadership taught him, and how he went from supporting donor drives as a student to becoming a donor himself. He breaks down the donation process in a straightforward way and shares how the experience is shaping his approach as a future oncology pharmacist.
It’s a timely reminder of what Giving Tuesday represents at NCODA: showing up for others, supporting patients and peers, and taking action when you have the chance to make an impact.
Additional Resources
Chuck Akanegbu, originally from Easton, MA, is a PharmD graduate from the University of Rhode Island working to finish his dual-degree program with a Masters of Science specializing in health outcomes. He is now completing a PGY1 residency at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center in southern Oregon. Upon completion of his residency he will pursue a PGY-2 in oncology to further his education and expertise in providing impactful, evidence-based care to patients with cancer. He also hopes to bring his passion in clinical research to drive improvement in patient outcomes through projects like his residency project surrounding aligning his health system’s antiemetic protocols with NCCN/ASCO guidelines. Outside of pharmacy, Chuck enjoys hiking national parks, training in jiu-jitsu and when nice out grilling for friends and families.
Learn more about NMDP here.
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