I chose to become a nurse after working a part-time job at a hospital as a teenager; I was inspired by the interactions I witnessed between patients and nurses. During my career as an ICU nurse, I saw many patients admitted to our unit again and again due to poorly managed chronic conditions. I chose to become a family nurse practitioner to help individuals both prevent and better manage their chronic conditions and improve quality of life.

Nurse practitioners have a historic role in providing care for under-served populations – our profession started with nurses travelling to rural areas to care for people who had no other access to care. I am passionate about continuing to carry this history forward and provide compassionate, quality care to all individuals regardless of their ability to pay.

My husband and I own a jiu jitsu academy; I lead our women’s program and compete at tournaments and grappling events around the country. I also love hiking, rock climbing, and spending time with my son.

I would pack up my family and dogs and go travel the world!