Behind Their Offices: A Look Inside the Spaces of Moffitt’s Physicians
Every office tells a story. Beyond the sterile walls of exam rooms and the stacks of medical charts, physicians at Moffitt Cancer Center create workspaces that reflect their journeys, passions and personal inspirations. In recognition of National Doctors’ Day on March 30, we take a rare peek inside the offices of two Moffitt doctors, each space offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives behind their white coats.
From aviation history to beloved books, treasured family moments to symbols of resilience, these carefully chosen elements serve as daily reminders of what drives them. These offices aren’t just places where medicine happens; they are reflections of the people who dedicate their lives to patient care.
Dr. Vernon Sondak — A Space That Soars Through History
Vernon Sondak, MD, chair of the Cutaneous Oncology Department, has spent more than 21 years at Moffitt, leading with expertise in melanoma and sarcoma treatment. His office is a testament to his lifelong passions, filled with memorabilia that span history, sports and adventure.
- Aviation Memorabilia — Sondak’s office walls are lined with airplane pictures, but the most special is a photo of himself with James Mulé, PhD, and the late Jeff Weber, MD, PhD, during a flight in a World War II B-24 Liberator bomber. For an aviation enthusiast like Sondak, this was a bucket list moment.
- Hockey Memorabilia — A lifelong hockey player with over 50 years of experience, Sondak proudly displays trophies and mementos from his time on the ice. Among them is a framed photo of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team, featuring players from his alma mater, Boston University. Even today, he hits the ice regularly and has played at Amalie Arena.
- Great Lakes Ship History — Sondak’s love for history is reflected in his fascination with Great Lakes shipwrecks. His office features images of the Edmund Fitzgerald, the infamous ship lost in 1975, and a signed picture from the lone survivor of the Daniel J. Morrell shipwreck.
- Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Photo — A staged but amusing image makes it look like Sondak is on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. He took the photo at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland with a fellow melanoma surgeon and magician, adding a bit of rock-star charm to his office.
- Personal and Family Photos — Like many, Sondak surrounds himself with photos of his loved ones. These images ground him, providing warmth and personal connection in the midst of his demanding work.
Dr. Leidy Isenalumhe — A Space of Elegance, Inspiration and Magic
For Leidy Isenalumhe, MD, a hematology-oncology specialist, creating an inviting and inspiring office space is essential. Over the past decade, she has transformed her workspace into a place of comfort, motivation and personal expression.
- Digital Photo Frame — At the center of Isenalumhe’s office is a digital frame that continuously rotates images of her two daughters, husband and dog. These photos remind her of her greatest joy outside of work, offering a sense of balance amid her busy days.
- A Touch of Elegance — With carefully curated gold and lilac accents, Isenalumhe’s office is both stylish and welcoming. Though limited by standard office walls, she has infused warmth into the space, making it a place that feels like home.
- Harry Potter Memorabilia — A lifelong “Harry Potter” fan, Isenalumhe proudly displays themed trinkets and a Build-A-Bear teddy bear gifted by her daughters. These little treasures add a playful touch to her office, bringing back fond memories of childhood wonder and the magic of getting lost in a great story.
- Passion for Interior Design — Beyond her work in oncology, Isenalumhe has a passion for decorating and organizing. Her office reflects this love for structured, visually appealing environments — something she enjoys sharing with friends as well.
- Faith and Inspiration — A Bible and daily devotional book have a permanent place in Isenalumhe’s office, providing comfort and guidance throughout her demanding days. These books serve as reminders of her faith, offering strength and perspective.
From historical artifacts to cherished family photos, from aviation adventures to literary fandoms, the workspaces of Moffitt’s physicians reveal the personal stories behind their professional lives. These offices are more than just places of work; they are sanctuaries of inspiration, filled with reminders of the journeys that brought them here.
