News & Stories

Who inspired you to become a doctor?
When I was a teenager, my mother went back to medical school as a second career. As a result, I saw the challenges and rewards of building a career in medicine. She and her mentor, the late Luther Brady, inspired me to pursue a career in radiation oncology. My Chair and Director during my residency, Joseph “Buddy” Jenrette encouraged me to develop my interests in research and academic medicine.

What do you like most about your position at Cooper?
As a Department Chairman, I could not ask for a more friendly, earnest and loyal group of leaders than those at Cooper. All of our physician and administrative leaders exemplify Cooper’s core mission values, “to serve, to heal, to educate.” More importantly, I am able to build sincere and empathetic relationships with my patients. Caring for people as individuals is what sustains a lifetime career in medicine.

Besides work and family, what are your passions?
I enjoy cooking, especially barbeque (Meat. Outdoors.), home improvement projects, gardening, and cheering on the Eagles.

Do you have a personal motto or philosophy?
“Have a good time. All the time.” – Viv Savage, Drummer, This is Spinal Tap

What three words best describe you?
Tall, Dark and Witty

What are you currently reading/watching/listening to?
I enjoy watching epic historical drama series featuring actors with such heavy British accents that I need the subtitles. I am making my way through all of Michael Crichton’s works and am currently reading “Prey.”  I also listen to classic heavy metal (AC/DC, Metallica and Iron Maiden), especially when I’m driving my teenage daughter and her friends to school in the morning.

Tell us something about you that people wouldn’t expect.
In 2014, I was a “featured expert” in a USA Today article about women getting “victory tattoos” after cancer treatment and I still get calls about this from women across the country. I am a veritable encyclopedia of useless knowledge pertaining to all things rock and roll from the 1970s and 80s. Also, my wife, Emily, and I are certified barbeque judges in the state of South Carolina.

Why should people support Pink and Teal?
All of us are no more than two degrees of separation from a loved one affected by breast or gynecologic cancer. It is part of the fabric of human existence and our common heritage as sons and daughters, no matter our color, faith or ethnicity. Cooper has made the battle against these diseases emblematic of their entire mission, and The Cooper Foundation ensures that our combined efforts, time and treasure are directed to the patients we serve.

Click here to make a donation in honor of Dr. Dragun.
Thank you for supporting Pink Roses Teal Magnolias!