My interest in medicine started during my high school years. My mom is from Central America, and I had the opportunity to go to her native country of El Salvador to work alongside my aunt, an internist, during several summers. During this time, I participated in patient education, direct observation medication therapy (DOT), wound care and vaccinations. I became especially encouraged by the power knowledge has within the family structure to influence real change in physical, mental and spiritual health. I believe patient care should be a holistic model addressing a person’s physical, mental and spiritual health. My area of special interest includes preventive care. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with loved ones. Being outdoors through evenings on the back porch, hiking, backpacking or kayaking all rejuvenate my soul. I’ve always found good mental and physical self-care through a variety of fitness activities. My husband and I are also very active in our local church. Traveling and learning about other cultures and ways of life are also an interest of mine.