Raising the Bar for Cardiology in Columbus, GA

Dr. Darrah grew up in Columbus, not far from where he practices medicine today. After graduating from the Medical College of Georgia in 1997, he completed his internship and residency in Internal Medicine at Emory University. In 2000, he began his fellowship in general cardiology at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Dr. Darrah was Chief Fellow during his third-year fellowship in 2003. He remained at UNC for his Interventional Fellowship and completed this in 2004. Shortly thereafter, Dr. Darrah moved to Columbus and founded Southeastern Cardiology Associates.

Dr. Darrah has a simple approach to patient care. He treats his patients the way he would want his own family members to be treated if they were in the same situation. His patients give him the highest ratings and oftentimes refer their friends and family members to him for care. Dr. Darrah feels very fortunate and privileged to care for those that entrust their lives with him. Medicine is both a passion and a calling.

He is on staff at St. Francis, Midtown Medical Center, and Northside Medical Center.
When he is not attending to medical matters, he enjoys spending time with his family. He and his wife Deanna have two children, Isabelle and Brooks. He enjoys being outdoors and watching college football.

Dr. Champion was born in Opelika, Alabama and raised in Thomasville, Georgia. He received his B.S. in Biological Science from Emory University and his MD as well as a PhD in Cardiovascular Pharmacology from Tulane University. After his medical school training, Dr. Champion joined the Osler Housestaff Service of the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine where he completed his internship and residency. He subsequently completed his training in Cardiovascular Disease, Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology at Johns Hopkins where he was invited to join the faculty of the Cardiology division as an Assistant Professor in Medicine. From 2005-2009, he directed the Bernard Laboratory for the Study of Cardiovascular Disease. In July 2009, Dr. Champion was recruited to the University of Pittsburgh where he joined the faculty of the Divisions of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine and the Cardiovascular Institute as an Associate Professor of Medicine where he directed Translational Research for the University of Pittsburgh Vascular Medicine Institute. In addition, he directed the Clinical and Translational Vascular Unit of the University of Pittsburgh.

In 2014, Dr. Champion and his family moved closer to home (and warm weather) to join Southeastern Cardiology. Dr. Champion is the only Heart Failure trained specialist and only Pulmonary Hypertension trained specialist in the Chattahoochee Valley and surrounding areas, bringing unique and highly specialized diagnostic and treatment options to patients with these conditions.  In addition to heart failure and pulmonary hypertension, Dr. Champion treats patients with hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart rhythm issues, and valvular disease.

When he is not in the clinic or at the hospital, Dr. Champion enjoys spending time with his family. He and his wife Lark have three children, Hunter Clay, Callaway, and Spencer. Dr. Champion is a renaissance man – while he is passionate about hunting, fishing and golf, he equally enjoys cooking with friends.

Dr. Champion is on staff at Midtown Medical Center and Northside Medical Center.

Dr. Lopez attended the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, Texas, graduating in 1999. She then completed her internship and residency in Internal Medicine at Portsmouth Naval Hospital in Portsmouth, Virginia. Dr. Lopez served our country in the Navy until 2006 when she left to complete her Cardiology Fellowship at Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood, Illinois. After working in private practice in Fort Worth, Texas, Dr. Lopez joined Southeastern Cardiology Associates in January of 2013. Dr. Lopez is passionate about preventing as well as treating cardiac disease. Dr. Lopez also has moderate proficiency in Spanish.

When she is not in the office, Dr. Lopez enjoys spending time with her two boys, Max and Benjamin. Together they are passionate about Scouts, hiking, camping, and simply enjoying the outdoors. Dr. Lopez also enjoys dancing, reading, and traveling.

Originally from Beirut, Lebanon, Dr. Ibrahim received his Medical Degree from American University of Beirut in 2007 with distinction. Shortly thereafter, he moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where he completed his Internal Medicine Residency and was Chief Medical Resident at Emory University in 2012. Dr. Ibrahim remained at Emory for his Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship, graduating in 2015 and his Interventional Cardiology Fellowship, graduating in 2016. In 2015, Dr. Ibrahim was awarded the prestigious Outstanding Fellow Award and has received multiple awards of distinction in teaching. After practicing for 5 years in Columbus, Georgia specializing in complex coronary interventional procedures, and endovascular procedures, he proceeded to complete an advanced fellowship in structural heart disease specializing in valve replacements and repair using trans-catheter therapies at Banner/University of Arizona School of medicine in Phoenix. This includes procedures such as Trans-catheter Aortic or Mitral valve replacement (TAVR, TMVR), Trans-catheter Mitral Valve Edge-to-Edge Repair such as MitraClip, and left atrial appendage occlusion such as Watchman or Amulet Devices. He also specializes in PFO/ASD closure. Dr. Ibrahim returns home to Columbus and brings a wealth of knowledge to Southeastern Cardiology and is up to date on the latest technology and procedures in the fields of trans-catheter valve replacement and repair along with coronary and vascular interventions. He is board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease and Interventional Cardiology. He is also a Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation. Dr. Ibrahim’s goal is to provide the outstanding quality of care to his patients, and tailor the treatment approach to each patient’s medical condition. His broad range of training spanning the coronary, peripheral and structural specialties along with years of experience allows him to provide excellent care to patients. He is on staff at St. Francis, Midtown Medical Center, and Northside Medical Center.

Dr. Travis Massengill joined Southeastern Cardiology Associates in the summer of 2020. Originally from Virginia, he did his undergraduate studies at Old Dominion University and received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree at Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine in Blacksburg, Virginia.

Dr. Massengill completed both his Internal Medicine Residency (2017) and Cardiology Fellowship (2020) at Beaumont Farmington Hills in Michigan.

He joins Southeastern Cardiology with a wealth of knowledge, a fresh perspective on a diverse set of disease states and a passion for excellent, attentive patient care. He is board certified in Internal Medicine and General Cardiology and is a Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation.

Dr. Massengill is on staff at St. Francis Hospital, Piedmont Columbus Regional and Piedmont Northside.

Dr. Massengill and his wife, Melissa, have two young children and are excited to get settled in Columbus. In his free time, Dr. Massengill loves to spend time with his family, hunt, and read.

Dr. Ko is a structural and interventional cardiologist with expertise in valve disease, coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and vein disease. He performs a variety of advanced procedures, including TAVR, Watchman, complex coronary interventions (such as high-risk PCI and CTO interventions), and complex peripheral interventions, including limb salvage and treatments for DVT and PE.

Throughout his career, Dr. Ko has remained committed to staying current with the latest evidence-based practices. He prioritizes clear communication, ensuring patients understand their condition and treatment options. His patient-centered approach emphasizes shared decision-making, tailoring treatments to align with each patient’s preferences and needs.

Driven by a dedication to providing the highest quality care, Dr. Ko combines his clinical expertise with the latest technological advancements to deliver the best possible outcomes for his patients.

Outside of work, Dr. Ko enjoys playing tennis with his family.

Dr. Ko holds privileges at St. Francis Hospital and Piedmont Columbus Regional Midtown and Piedmont Northside. He is supported by Mackenzie Burt, NP. They are both accepting new patients and all insurance carriers.

Jed graduated from Georgia Southern in 2003 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. After graduation, he attended The Medical College of Georgia’s PA program and graduated with honors in 2005. Shortly after graduation, he began his career with Southeastern Cardiology.

Jed and Dr. Darrah founded Southeastern Cardiology together and have worked closely side by side since the practice’s inception.  He is truly beloved by his patients. His immense knowledge, compassion and down-to-earth personality make him the ideal provider in the cardiology setting. He answers to Jed or Jeb, even Dr. Vickers.

He is on staff at St. Francis, Midtown Medical Center, and Northside Medical Center.

Jed is married to Anne Marie and has a set of twins – Maudie Lee and Sims. When he is not tending to the medical needs of patients, Jed enjoys Georgia football, going to the gym, shooting, reading, and—most importantly—completing tasks on his wife’s honey-do list.

Rosemary Allen graduated from South University PA School in Savannah, GA in 2018. She practiced inpatient pulmonology and critical care medicine from 2018 to 2021 at CHI St. Vincent in Hot Springs, AR. Most recently, she practiced with the advanced heart failure and transplant cardiology team at Baylor Scott and White Health in Temple, TX, where she also served as the cardiology advanced practice provider manager. Rosemary loves the practice of medicine and is especially passionate about providing patient and family education to enhance understanding of disease process, treatment options, lifestyle, and plan. She believes in a collaborative approach to medicine that includes the entire care team and, most importantly, the patient and their family. She is excited to bring her expertise to Southeastern Cardiology and Dr. Darrah’s Care Team.

Rosemary enjoys spending time with her husband, Nick, and two cats, Ash and Jack Jack. She loves weightlifting and can often be found in the gym before work. In her free time, she loves to hike, kayak, read, and care for her houseplants. Rosemary has also recently taken up ceramics and is excited to continue her exploration of this art form.

Sally earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner degrees from Augusta University (formerly the Medical College of Georgia) in 2018. She also received her undergraduate nursing degree from Augusta University and holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, Sally spent seven years working in the cardiac surgical ICU at Emory University Hospital, where she developed a deep foundation in critical care.

Sally’s passion for medicine began early, inspired by her grandparents—a physician and a nurse—and her father, a general surgeon in her hometown. As a child, she often accompanied her father on Sunday morning hospital rounds, where she gained an early appreciation for the vital role of nurses. That appreciation deepened profoundly in eighth grade when her father suffered a horseback riding accident that left him paralyzed from the neck down. During his long recovery at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, Sally witnessed firsthand the life-changing impact of compassionate, skilled nursing care—an experience that solidified her calling to the profession.

Driven by a strong belief in the importance of patient education and holistic care, Sally pursued advanced practice nursing to meet the growing need for providers who prioritize communication, empathy, and family involvement. Her warmth, patience, and approachable nature make her a valuable member of Dr. Darrah’s team.

Sally and her husband, Tommy, live in Columbus, Georgia, with their three children—Mims, Eliza Chance, and David. They love being surrounded by her close-knit extended family, including her mother, four sisters, and ten nieces and nephews. Outside of work, Sally enjoys family time, playing tennis, and horseback riding.

Laura Rue graduated in 2005 from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with her master’s degree in nursing. Since then, she has worked as a Nurse Practitioner specializing in Cardiology. Prior to graduate school, she spent four years as an intensive care unit nurse. Her undergraduate studies were completed at the University of Georgia and Kennesaw State University.

Laura brings a wealth of experience and clinical insight to Dr. Darrah’s provider team. She is available for hospital follow-ups and same-day visits, helping to ensure timely and thorough care for patients. Known for her thoughtful and compassionate approach, Laura is a valued member of Southeastern Cardiology.

She and her husband, Les, have three children – Waits, Ann Lane, and Davis. In her free time, Laura enjoys running, exercising, and spending time with her family.

Katie earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Columbus State University and brings over a decade of specialized experience in cardiac nursing, with a strong background in cardiovascular and cardiothoracic critical care. In 2023, she completed her Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner degree, also from Columbus State University. Katie is a valued member of Dr. Darrah’s provider team, where she focuses on her passion for cardiology and providing high-quality, patient-centered care.

Outside of work, Katie and her husband, Trey, stay busy with their daughter, Addyson, and twin boys, Mason and Colin. She enjoys getting lost in a good book, spending quality time with family and friends, and cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs during football season.

Kyle is a native of Columbus and moved into the role of Nurse Practitioner at Southeastern Cardiology in the spring of 2016. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Columbus State University in 2009. From 2009 to 2014, Kyle worked as a Registered Nurse IV at St. Francis Hospital in the CCU and CVICU. In 2014 she joined Southeastern Cardiology as a nurse while she completed her training. In 2015, she graduated from Walden University with her Nurse Practitioner’s degree.

Kyle is a member of Southeastern Cardiology’s Heart Failure/Pulmonary Hypertension Program and is partnered with Dr. Champion as an expert in Cardiomyopathy and Pulmonary Vascular Disease.

When Kyle is not in the office or at the hospital, she enjoys spending time with Rascal, her Pekingese.

Nicole graduated in 2022 from The University of Alabama at Birmingham with her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) degree. Since her graduation, she has been a practicing Nurse Practitioner, specializing in Cardiology. She obtained her Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) from Southern Union State Community College in 2017 and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from Jacksonville State University in 2019. Before pursuing her MSN/AGACNP degree, Nicole started her nursing career in the Emergency Department at Baptist Medical Center South where she found her passion for cardiac care. She then transitioned to the Cardiovascular ICU at East Alabama Medical Center where she worked for several years prior to completing her Nurse Practitioner degree.

Nicole is originally from Alabama and is a member of Dr. Hunter Champion’s provider team.

She and her husband, Logan, live on Lake Harding and have a dog, Bryce. In her spare time, Nicole enjoys spending time at the lake, pool, or even taking weekend getaways to the beach.

Originally from Brooks, Georgia, Sally moved to Columbus, Georgia after getting married. She earned her undergraduate degree in Kinesiology from Mississippi State University and went on to complete her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania. She is a valued member of the provider team for Dr. Travis Massengill.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors—whether it’s playing disc golf, running, hiking, or exploring new cities. She is also a big Atlanta Falcons and Braves fan. She and her husband have one very spoiled fur child, Zilla.

Mackenzie is a native of Shiloh, GA, and a valued member of the Southeastern Cardiology team. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Columbus State University in 2017 and has worked as a Registered Nurse at St. Francis Hospital ever since—spending 2.5 years in the Emergency Department and the past 4.5 years in the Cardiac Cath Lab, where she continues to serve PRN.

It was during her time as a nurse circulator in the Cardiac Cath Lab that Mackenzie discovered her passion for cardiology, which ultimately inspired her to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (FNP) from Auburn University—War Eagle!

Mackenzie’s dedication to cardiology, her compassionate approach to care, and her extensive clinical experience make her an invaluable part of Dr. Ko’s team.