At UNC REX, our Advanced Practice Providers offer the latest treatments for your colorectal conditions, including colorectal surgery.
Melissa Lunsford, RN, MSN, FNP
Nurse Practitioner
Team Lead, Colorectal Division of North Carolina Surgery at UNC REX
Melissa Lunsford, RN, MSN, FNP, began her career at Rex Hospital in 2013 while working towards her master’s degree in nursing at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Upon graduation in 2016, Melissa joined the North Carolina Surgery Colorectal Division and is now their team lead. Originally from Virginia, she has lived in North Carolina since 2000. Melissa spends her free time with her husband and three sons, and she loves hiking trails, biking and watching lots of hockey.
Lindsay Hephner, RN, MSN, FNP
Nurse Practitioner
Lindsay Hephner, RN, MSN, FNP, received her undergraduate degree in nursing from East Carolina University. Lindsay is a Raleigh native and began her career as a nurse at UNC REX in 2013. Lindsay then went on to complete her master’s degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The colorectal team at UNC REX welcomed Lindsay in 2021. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, traveling, playing lacrosse and spending time with her friends and family.
Christina Chada, RN, MSN, FNP
Nurse Practitioner
Christina Chada, RN, MSN, FNP, received her undergraduate degree in nursing from University of Central Florida. Christina worked as a surgical nurse for 8 years at Dr Phillips Hospital in Orlando before continuing her nursing career at UNC Rex in 2021. She received her master’s degree from University of Cincinnati and upon graduation joined the North Carolina Surgery Colorectal team. Christina moved to North Carolina in 2021, but she is a Texas native. In her free time she enjoys biking, yoga, DIY projects, and exploring hiking trails with her husband and two daughters.
Marta Bianco, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Marta Bianco, PA-C, received her Master’s Degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Mercy College, New York. She began her career as a Surgical PA at Long Island Jewish Forest Hills Hospital in 2015. Marta transitioned from New York to Raleigh, joining the colorectal team at UNC REX in the Fall of 2023. Outside of work, Marta and her husband share a love for travel, good food, hiking, and the serenity of the great outdoors.