My clinical specialty is pediatric rheumatology. I see patients with any childhood rheumatic disease, including but not limited to juvenile idiopathic arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, juvenile dermatomyositis, vasculitis and autoinflammatory disorders. I am very passionate about my job and provide an optimistic approach to patient care, believing any child with rheumatic disease can reach their full potential despite their chronic condition. It will take time and effort, but we can achieve the desired outcome together through clear communication and a relationship over time.

My care approach is family-centered, considering the patient and family dynamic is essential. Providers must make the most appropriate recommendations based on clinical experience and current research but also recognize that there can be more than one correct answer regarding what works best for the patient and family. I consider the entire patient, including their emotional, social, physical and mental aspects, to treat them appropriately and ensure they function at their best. As a mom, I can empathize with families and try to help them through the uncertainty that exists within rheumatology, particularly helping them to navigate these challenges with their child.

As the associate program director of the fellowship program, I strive to instill the qualities of a humanistic approach to medical care, highlighting the importance of connecting with patients / families to the many trainees that I work with and mentor. I enjoy teaching and am honored to be a part of the fellows’ educational journey to becoming rheumatologists, serving as an advocate and coach for them along the way.

My primary research interest includes medical education, specifically working to improve pediatric rheumatology knowledge among trainees and non-rheumatology providers. My goals are to ensure prompt referrals and treatment for children with rheumatic disease to improve patient outcomes while alleviating the strain of inappropriate referrals to the small pediatric rheumatology workforce. I also hope to increase exposure to the field, ideally recruiting more residents to become pediatric rheumatologists.

When I am not at work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and children. You can primarily find us doing outside activities—exploring local parks, riding the carousel at the Cincinnati Zoo, and hiking or biking different trails. I also enjoy reading, baking and supporting the Kentucky Wildcats—Go Big Blue!