I’ve learned that a doctor can play many key roles in helping patients and families learn about and manage their health conditions. Several meaningful experiences sparked my interest in pediatric neurology.

During my undergraduate years, I was privileged to work as a volunteer in orphanages and children's hospitals in Russia. This inspired me to a career in medicine and an understanding of the impact of working with children. Outstanding neuroscience professors in medical school instilled in me a fascination with and desire to understand the beauty and intricacy of the brain and nervous system — the powerful and complex system which is responsible for so much of what makes us human. I also had personal experiences of how devastating neurologic disease can be as I witnessed the diagnosis and rapid death of a family member from a brain tumor during medical school.

As a neurologist dedicated to caring for unborn and newly born babies, I work with families when a child is first diagnosed with a neurological disorder. I provide families with information that helps them understand what their child’s diagnosis might mean for the future. I believe that’s one of the most important things I can do as a pediatric neurologist at Cincinnati Children’s.

No matter the seriousness of the condition — or the many unknowns — approaching problems directly, armed with correct information and with a calm, hopeful manner lets the patient and family gain a sense of control.

I enjoy working as part of a team. When I partner with the patient, family, pediatrician and other specialists, we can meet patient and family needs more effectively.

My research focuses on getting better information to guide families in dealing with neurologic problems before or after the birth of their child. I study what medical treatments can be done early in life or soon after a neurologic injury to improve a child’s chance for more normal development in the future.

When I’m not at work, I enjoy bird watching, yard work, gardening and woodworking.