Education:
University of South Alabama
Masters of Science in Nursing. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner-Primary Care.
Board certification:
Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care
Why did you choose to practice pediatrics?
During my clinical rotation in nursing school, I was assigned a pediatric patient that was all alone and too
young to communicate. I had to figure out what was going on with this child without any means of
communication. I was honored to be that voice for someone so helpless. Pediatrics has been my focus ever
since that day.
What is most rewarding about your work?
Helping children brings so much joy to me. Children are resilient regardless of how they are feeling. They are always happy and smiling. They cannot always tell you what is wrong and they need someone to advocate for them. Being able to help them feel better and getting a smile in return makes it all worth it.
How does being a parent help in the way you provide care and work with your patients and their families?
As a mom, I experience being on the other side of doctor visits with my own children. I worry, lose sleep, and stress when my child is sick just like any other parent. Even when I know that my child will be ok, I still need that reassurance from another health care provider from time to time. Having this parental experience, I approach every patient with the intent of fully reassuring and educating the parents. I like to be that sound
board where the parent is comfortable voicing all their concerns.
When working with your patients and their families, what is your approach?
When assessing patients, I understand that children do not necessarily enjoy coming to the doctor’s office so I try to make things fun and comfortable for everyone. Being able to ease the minds of parents and return the child back to normal activity is what I enjoy the most about my job.
How do you stay healthy and happy?
When I am not at work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I have two young children so I am always on the go. We enjoy spending a lot of our time outdoors swimming and playing games. These activities contribute to both my health and happiness.
