I grew up in Omaha NE, I went to University of Nebraska at Lincoln, partied too much (despite my 3.8 GPA in chemical engineering) and came back to Omaha to finish my undergrad at Creighton in chemistry. I took some time off between undergrad and med school and worked for the US Army Corps of Engineers as a chemist and then as an industrial hygienist. During this time, I went to Johns Hopkins for toxicology coursework. I looked at many industrial and agricultural chemicals and federal regulations for safe levels in the environment. I am a cancer survivor. This experience has given me the opportunity to be on the other side as a patient and has had a profound impact on how I care for patients. I try to treat the whole patient, not just the symptoms of a bigger problem.
I believe strongly in personal responsibility and how our lifestyle can impact our health. I try to work with patients to be their own advocate and empower them to make good choices for their health and well-being. On a personal note, I enjoy a good cup of medium roast coffee and a nice, big, red wine. My favorite food is quiche because it has my 2 favorite food groups: eggs and pie. I love all things water related, including paddle boarding, rafting, scuba diving and snorkeling. I love my bicycles, all 3 of them, and my trail shoes.