Kanika Bowen-Jallow, M.D., Medical Director of the Bariatric Surgery Program

Kanika Bowen-Jallow, M.D., Medical Director of the Bariatric Surgery Program

From Untold: The Stories of Cook Children's by Cook Children's

March 11, 2026 · 33 min

About this episode

Dr. Kanika Bowen-Jallow discusses her journey to becoming a pediatric surgeon and the importance of equitable healthcare access and mentorship.

Kanika Bowen-Jallow, M.D., Medical Director of the Bariatric Surgery Program, never set out to become a pediatric surgeon - but one unexpected rotation in medical school changed everything. In this episode of Untold: The Stories of Cook Children’s, Dr. Bowen-Jallow shares the journey that led her to pediatric surgery and to building Cook Children’s Adolescent Bariatric Program in Cook Children’s Medical Center - Prosper. Along the way, she reflects on the responsibility of creating equitable healthcare access, the importance of mentorship and representation in medicine, and the lessons she’s learned navigating a career where fewer than one percent of surgeons share her background. Dr. Bowen-Jallow also shares deeply personal stories - from the mentors who helped guide her path to the experience that forever changed how she connects with families and patients. It’s a conversation about purpose, perseverance, and making sure the next generation sees that anything is possible. Related Links: Cook Children's Medical Center (Prosper) Adolescent Bariatric Surgery Program | Cook Children's https://youtu.be/8uLnD3GTV6Y?si=ZmfL8pWPwSw4Gfz8

People in this episode

Guest: Kanika Bowen-Jallow, M.D.

Topics covered

  • pediatric surgery
  • bariatric surgery
  • healthcare access
  • mentorship
  • representation in medicine
  • personal stories

Keywords

  • pediatric surgeon
  • bariatric surgery
  • healthcare access
  • mentorship
  • representation
  • personal stories
  • Cook Children's

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Cook Children's, Cook Children’s Medical Center, Adolescent Bariatric Program

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