As a motility doctor, I treat motility disorders of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, feeding disorders and GI disorders in children with special needs. At Cincinnati Children’s, we have one of the busiest and most comprehensive pediatric neurogastroenterology centers in the nation, with cutting-edge diagnostic technology. Our approach to patient care is family-centered, and we collaborate with other medical specialties in the institution to provide the best care possible.

Helping children with special needs gives me a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. My father, a developmental pediatrician, inspired me to pursue a career in pediatrics. During my fellowship, it was my mentor who introduced me to the field of neurogastroenterology, which at the time was new and evolving.

Sometimes there is no cure for a medical problem, especially in my chosen field. The challenge is to diagnose and accept it early on and work toward an improved quality of life. I partner with the families to explain this concept and devise a plan to improve the overall quality of life for their child. Listening nonjudgmentally to the parents and hearing what they have to say helps earn their trust and helps me come up with an individualized, collaborative management plan.

In addition to caring for patients, I also do research. There is still a scarcity of evidence-based management strategies for several disorders in the field of pediatric neurogastroenterology. With our research, my colleagues and I contribute to and help fill those gaps in knowledge.

In my free time, I like to keep up with current global affairs. I also love to visit and try the cuisine of different countries.