I am an advanced practice nurse (APN) in the Division of Neonatology.

As a child, I once visited a hospital that had a newborn intensive care unit (NICU). The babies were visible through the nursery window, and I was astounded at how tiny one of the infants was. I knew then I wanted to work with neonatal patients.

After working 15 years as a registered nurse (RN), I decided to advance my knowledge base, skill level and education to become an APN.

I treat my patients the same way I would want others to care for my own children. I have a daughter with complex, chronic health issues, so I know, firsthand, the importance of the provider-family relationship. As a testament to my care philosophy, a patient’s family once named their subsequent daughter after me.

I was honored to be a nominee for the Florence Nightingale Awards for Excellence in Nursing in 2017, and I received the Family-Centered Care Award in 2010.

In my free time, I enjoy hiking, camping and watching my children play sports.