-What’s your favorite part of working with children?
Kids are just so fun! I love the way their smile lights up a room, the curiosity they have, and those giggles. It is such a unique opportunity to know them from infancy all the way through adolescence. Helping kids (and their parents) navigate through every stage is really special and every day is full of joy
-What’s a fun fact about you that your patients might not know?
I am from Missouri originally and am married to my high school sweetheart
-What’s your favorite activity to do with your kids?
I have two young daughters, Hadley and Hazel. We love to play pretend, have tea parties, build forts, play dolls, and dress up. We enjoy lots of outdoor time as well
-Do you have any pets? Tell us about them!
I have two mini Australian shepherds, Maya and Remy. They both have quite the personality!
-Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of medicine?
I love to travel and explore new places! I try to visit a new state or country every year with my family. We typically plan our trips around a national park so we can go hiking. We have a map hanging up at home and color in each place we have been. Our goal is to eventually color in the entire map!
-What’s the most heartwarming moment you’ve experienced with a patient?
The little voice “thank you for making me feel better” means the absolute world to me. The big bear hugs, toothless smiles, and hand made drawings are priceless. I have gotten to attend patient’s baptisms, prom, and birthdays. I have had the honor of helping a patient ring the bell after beating cancer. I am so grateful for the opportunity to be there for all the milestones, big and small, in my patient’s lives.
-What’s the most memorable costume you’ve ever worn for Halloween?
I usually go all out with costumes! We incorporate a new family theme each year. A favorite was being lumiere (the candlestick) from beauty and the beast. Oh and ninja turtle was another good one!
-What’s the best piece of advice you give to new parents?
Trust your intuition, don’t sweat the small stuff, and take lots of pictures. You got this!