My mother was a pediatric nurse, and I remember as a child admiring her empathy for others who were ill. There would be a knock at our door from a neighbor in need, and I was fascinated at her ability to bandage a wound, remove sutures or provide aid to someone having a seizure.

My career in nursing began at Cincinnati Children’s in 1992. My experiences include medical/surgical nursing, acute care as a recovery nurse and teaching nursing students at the bedside. I practice in otolaryngology with complex airway patients and serve as one of the tracheotomy team leaders. My approach to care has always been holistic with a focus on safety and compassion. After many years in this field, I’m still right where I want to be — caring for children and their families.

I have published several articles in nursing journals and presented locally and nationally on various topics, including nursing education and otolaryngology.

When I’m not helping patients, I enjoy spending time and traveling with my family. I married the guy I took to my senior prom, and we are empty nesters with our twins in college. I also like to cook and walk our dog in my free time.