I went to college on a tennis scholarship at the University of Louisville in Kentucky. Since I knew I wanted to go to medical school, in the off-season, I worked in a hospital radiology department. I think being active is so important. I started tennis at age six. Today, I’m enjoying the chance to support my children with their sports, tennis included.
I worked with children as a tennis pro after college. By the time I started medical school, I already knew how much fun they could be. So for me, it was an easy decision to go into pediatrics. I relate to kids and enjoy them, especially their humor and their honesty. It’s great to help them get well and feel better.
I’m passionate about preventing illness. I take time to talk to my patients and their families about things they can do that will make a difference. Preventive medicine means helping kids live healthier lives through diet and exercise and getting their vaccinations. I do a lot of counseling about the importance of vaccinations. These things are big concerns for me.
My goal is to establish trusting relationships with families and children so they can be comfortable and honest with me in the exam room. I want them to be able to talk to me about anything and know that I’ll be right there with them. I really try to connect with my families — inside the office and out in the community.
