When I was young, I was diagnosed with cancer that required several hospitalizations and procedures. I wanted to go into the field of nursing, specifically pediatrics, to give back to my community and help others the way I was helped at such a young age.

I decided to become a nurse practitioner (NP) following nursing school and working at the bedside for several years. I wanted to expand my knowledge base and widen my practical skills so that I could play an active role in my patients' decision-making processes. Becoming an NP was the best choice for me to accomplish this.

As a student nurse, I started working with the gastrointestinal (GI) population, where I had my final clinical rotation. I liked the idea of watching my patients transition from the newborn intensive care unit (NICU) into adulthood. I took a job as an RN on the inpatient GI unit immediately following graduation and knew that I had found my happy place.

There is something powerful about watching those with chronic illnesses overcome tremendous obstacles and beat all the odds. The resilience and bravery of the children we take care of inspire me every day.

I believe that every patient and situation is unique and should be treated as such. I approach every patient and their family with an open mind and strive to provide the safest care possible, while also taking into account the needs and suggestions of families. I am passionate about providing safe care and advocating for my patients and their families in the medical and emotional aspects of care. I believe teamwork and open communication gives us the best foundation to form trusting relationships between families and providers.

When I am not at work, I enjoy reading, live music, exercising, traveling (especially cruises!) and going camping with my husband and our two dogs. I’m also a big fan of football, especially the Ohio State Buckeyes and Cleveland Browns!