Why I chose to pursue a career in healthcare:

I chose a career in medicine because of my love of science/biology, my love of working with children, and a desire to make the world a better place. I remember getting an inexpensive microscope when I was about 13. I would search all over for samples to look at-from a pond in our neighborhood to a sample of blood from my father. (He poked his finger with a safety pin-what a great dad!). Later, I spent a few summers working as a camp counselor, and I realized that I wanted to work with children as a career. As a pediatrician, I get to combine these interests into the perfect career choice.

What I want my patients to know about me:

It's such an honor to have the trust of the families we work with-to care for their fragile newborns and help them through what may be the most difficult time of their lives. I feel so fortunate to get to do what I love every day. And even though I have been taking care of babies for over 25 years now, I feel just as passionate about it as the day I started. One of my favorite days of the year is our NICU reunion. It's an opportunity to reconnect with our families and see these children growing and playing and thriving. It reminds us of what our work is all about.

What I do when I'm not seeing patients:

I enjoy being active. I like to spend time outdoors with my family. My favorite place to spend time is on the beach in the summer. I could body surf all day long. I enjoy nature. I love to tend to my flower gardens and take photos of all the beautiful things growing in it and the interesting creatures that come to visit. I love scary books and movies. Stephen King is my favorite, and his son, Joe Hill, is pretty good, too. I enjoy good food, and I have never met a piece of chocolate I didn't like! Most of all, I just like spending time with my wife and son.