Growing up, I knew I wanted to study nursing because I loved science and caring for others. I started my career as a nurse in the emergency department. While working there, I encountered several patients who suffered complications due to their limited access to quality primary care. Because of this experience, I decided to pursue an advanced degree so that I could make a difference. As a Family Nurse Practitioner in primary care, my passion is to help people stay out of the hospital and live healthy, happy, and fulfilling lives. My philosophy of care is to provide patient-centered, compassionate care. Every patient is unique and I believe that health care decisions should be individualized to meet each patient's personal needs and goals. Outside of work, I love to travel and spend time with my husband, friends and family. Im also a big sports fan, so I love to go to local football, baseball and softball games.