Why I chose to pursue a career in healthcare:
In medical school, they called us "bent arrows." We were students who had not travelled the usual path to becoming physicians. My journey started with the feeling that "I always wanted to be a doctor." However, a course in invertebrate zoology (uggh!) in sophomore year of college derailed my fledgling medical career. I could not see how drawing an amoeba was going to help me become a doctor. So, I dropped that course and added Cognitive Psychology, which led to many more courses and a degree in Psychology. With this foundation, I worked in human services for the next 11 years (as houseparent, Protective Services Worker, Community Mental Health counselor and administrator) earning a Master's in Counseling Education along the way. Eventually, the desire to "take healing to the next level" (combining mind and body health) landed me in my first day of medical school at age 33! The rest is history and I have never looked back.
What I want my patients to know about me:
I believe being a physician is a privilege and a blessing. As a physician, I don't have "super powers" or a crystal ball, but I will work hard to hear your story clearly, to find the source of your symptoms, and to understand how you are feeling. I want to be a partner in helping you reach your health goals and will treat you as I would want my own family to be treated. I will be open and transparent in my diagnosis and treatment recommendations and explain them in a way that you understand. If I don't, I welcome questions!! I wouldn't ask you to take or try something if I wouldn't do it myself. I enjoy getting to know you and your family (after all, it is Family Medicine) and hope that you will look forward to (not dread) your appointments. I believe that smiles, laughter, hugs and faith are important healing tools. I look forward to meeting you!
What I do when I'm not seeing patients:
I am a huge fan...of my children and family, whether it is in sports, extra-curricular activities or life. Currently, I root (loudly) for New Oxford High School sports, Shippensburg University Track & Field and the Pittsburgh Steelers!!!
For physical well-being, I try to follow my own advice...I love Zumba! I have been an instructor since 2013, which guarantees that I exercise at least 2-3 times weekly. Weather-permitting, golf and tennis also get thrown into the mix.
For relaxation, I turn to music. I play flute, piccolo, trombone and piano, most often at church but sometimes in the pit for local musical productions. I thank my parents for all of those music lessons!
Last, but definitely not least, I enjoy spending time with God, serving my church family, and growing in faith.
Ratings and comments display for WellSpan Medical Group employed physicians who have a minimum of 30 completed patient surveys.
