Why I chose to pursue a career in healthcare:

I knew I wanted to go into nursing and eventually beyond when I was quite young. I remember visiting my grandfather who was diabetic and being so intrigued by the disease process and his management of it. It was actually my grandfather who encouraged me to go into nursing and believed in me even when I didn't believe in myself. I worked as an ER nurse for 14-plus years but always knew I would go beyond bedside nursing. It was actually the midwife who delivered my first daughter who opened my eyes to nurse midwifery and once my babies weren't babies any longer I knew it was time to pursue that dream.

What I want my patients to know about me:

Every interaction I have with each patient is focused on that patient, the most important part of my day at that time. I love people, especially women, as they are the cornerstone to families and to society. If we, as healthcare providers, help women to care for themselves, to advocate for themselves and their families through education and information sharing, and partner with them throughout life to be part of the decision-making partnership we can impact the lives of families. You (my patient) are the reason I do what I do.

What I do when I'm not seeing patients:

When I'm not seeing patients I enjoy spending time with my family. I have an amazing husband and four children who keep me very busy. I enjoy reading and traveling and absolutely love to cook for my friends and family! Our favorite place to vacation is the Outer Banks and South Carolina. We love being beach bums and playing in the sand and ocean all day as we disconnect from our typically busy lives!