My journey to becoming a nurse began with my father, who is a nurse as well. I remember hearing stories as a little girl about the many patients he helped, and I knew that was something I wanted to do. I also grew up loving children and always wanted to be around them. I coached swimming and diving at a local swim club, starting in high school and continuing into college. Children are so resilient and are so fun to be around. It makes me feel like I am a kid again and that always makes me smile.
As a nursing student, I had the opportunity to travel to Tanzania on a medical brigade trip. There, I worked alongside other nurse practitioners and providers. It was after that trip that I knew I wanted to advance my knowledge and skills and work to become the best nurse practitioner I could be for my patients and families.
I work with the trauma services team and I want to make sure each of my patients receives the best care possible through a multi-disciplinary approach. I advocate for my patients and individualize their care to fit their needs and circumstances. My approach is patient- and family-centered, and I want my patients and families to feel safe and know that I value their input, concerns and beliefs.
While I was still a registered nurse (RN), I was a four-time DAISY Award For Extraordinary Nurses nominee. This award from Cincinnati Children's is given for excellence in patient care.
When I’m not helping patients, I like to spend time with my family at our lake house. We love boating and swimming, and it is a place where we can all gather together and hang out. I also enjoy playing sand volleyball, and I play in a summertime league.