Meet Our Staff

Each member of our staff is committed to providing our patients with the most compassionate care possible, while making them feel at home in the process.

Dr. John Hettiarachchi, DO, FACS

After spending his childhood in London and Sri Lanka, Dr. Hettiarachchi moved to NYC to attend the City University of New York where he completed his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry (Magna Cum Laude). After working in the Biochemical industry for two years, he attended New York College of Osteopathic Medicine in Long Island, NY from 1993 to 1997. He went on to complete a six year Urology residency at New York College of Medicine in Westchester, NY in 2003. One of his highlights during training was a scholarship to perform surgeries and enhance his education in Cameroon, Africa. He is Board Certified in Urology, and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He prides himself in keeping abreast of the latest techniques/technologies in urology.

Every year, Dr. Hettiarachchi attends several key urology conferences to keep abreast of the latest developments and research in the world of urology. These include the annual American Urological Association conference, Society for Urodynamics and Female urology and the World Endourology conference. These meetings are attended by leaders in the field and gather minds from all over the world.

Sandy Shepherd

Medical Assistant

Sandy graduated Phi Theta Kappa in 2005 from Wilkes Community College with an Associate in Applied Science-Medical Assisting degree. She was member of both the Dean’s List and Who’s Who Among American Junior Colleges. She currently serves as Secretary of the American Association of Medical Assistants, Wilkes County Chapter. She has received Certification in Urodynamics in Tampa, Fla through the Society of Urological Nurses and Associates.

Sandy joined the staff of Piedmont Urology in 2007. She works mainly in the clinical aspect of the practice.  She assists with gathering accurate patient medical histories and assisting Dr. Hettiarachchi with in-office procedures.

Sandy resides in North Wilkesboro along with her husband Jack and son Dylan.

Brandy H. Ritch, CMA

Medical Assistant

Brandy graduated from Wilkes Community College with an Associate in Applied Science-Medical Assisting in 2006. She was a member of the WCC Medical Assisting club and served as club Historian. Brandy was awarded the Medical Assistant of The Year in 2005-2006. She joined the staff in 2006.

Brandy is a very friendly face seen by patients during check in. She occasionally assists Dr. Hettiarachchi with in-office procedures. She also assists Melissa, the office manager with insurance and billing. She enjoys her work and likes to learn new things as the time goes by at Piedmont Urology.

Brandy resides in Wilkesboro with her fiancé Scottie, her cat Mr. Kitty and dog Buddy.