Tell us why you chose Nova Southern University for medical school?
I chose NSU-COM because I was drawn to osteopathic medicine. I have always believed that medicine is about treating the whole person and osteopathic medicine focuses on this. Everything we do and eat affects our body and it is important that we not only focus on just one symptom but on how the whole body is affected.
Why did you choose the University of Michigan for your fellowship?
I chose the University of Michigan for my fellowship because of its fantastic rheumatology division that is always on the cutting edge for research and clinical trials.
How did you choose Rheumatology as your specialty?
I chose Rheumatology because of the complexity of the patients and the importance of focusing on the whole patient and not just one part of the patient. In addition, it allows me the ability to form relationships with patients as many of them I will treat throughout my career.
What do you enjoy most about your day to day practice?
I love interacting with my patients and the joy of making them feel better.
What led you to practice with AOCC?
I came to AOCC from Atlanta, GA where I worked in academics. I loved that AOCC allowed me to practice Rheumatology with the same resources I had in academics but as a full-service practice that provides high-quality patient care. The warm family environment also made me instantly feel at home.
Has there been one patient, staff member, or caregiver story that has stuck with you during your career thus far?
Rheumatology is very rewarding on a regular basis. There is one patient I met early on in my career who I met at a patient support meeting. He had a severe disease and had not been adequately treated. When I first met him he was unable to walk more than a few feet without getting short of breath and now he is able to live a normal life and play pick-up basketball games with friends.
Are you a member of any associations, societies, or organizations?
American College of Rheumatology
Do you have any hobbies, interests, secret powers that are unique to you?
In my downtime, I enjoy running, spending time on the water, and hanging out with my children and husband!